September 24, 2026
After several days filled with university visits, academic sessions, company tours, project work, and cultural activities, September 24 gave us a different kind of experience. Instead of focusing mainly on academic activities, we had the opportunity to slow down, explore the local community, and experience a more personal side of American life.
Exploring Lynnhaven Mall
We began our day with a visit to Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach. After spending much of the previous days following a busy schedule, it was nice to have some free time to simply explore and enjoy the day together.
We walked around the mall, visited different stores, and did some shopping. It was interesting to see the variety of shops and the atmosphere of a large American shopping mall. We also had plenty of time to talk, laugh, and spend time together outside our usual academic environment.
Although shopping might seem like a simple activity, experiences like this allowed us to observe small aspects of everyday life in the United States and compare them with what we are familiar with in Germany and our home countries.
A Special Visit to Linda and Mike’s Home
Later in the day, we had a very special opportunity to visit the American home of Linda and Mike.
This was one of the more personal experiences of our VAST journey because we were welcomed into their home and had the chance to experience American hospitality firsthand.
We spent time talking with them, sharing stories about our lives and cultures, and learning more about everyday life in the United States. Being able to have these conversations in a relaxed home environment was very different from a formal university visit.
It also gave us the opportunity to share our own experiences as international students in Germany and talk about our journey through VAST 2026.
For us, cultural exchange was not only about visiting famous places or attending academic sessions. It was also about sitting together, having conversations, learning about one another, and understanding how people live their everyday lives.
Ending the Day with Dinner
After spending time at Linda and Mike’s home, we ended the day with dinner together.
After a full day of shopping, conversations, and cultural experiences, dinner gave us the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on everything we had experienced. Sitting together around a table, sharing food and conversations, made the evening feel warm and memorable.
These informal moments also helped strengthen the friendships we had developed throughout the VAST program. What started as a group of students from different backgrounds was gradually becoming a close-knit community through all the experiences we were sharing together.
More Than Just a Trip
September 23 may have been a quieter day compared with some of our university and research visits, but it was equally meaningful.
From exploring Lynnhaven Mall, to being welcomed into Linda and Mike’s home, and finally enjoying dinner together, the day gave us a glimpse into everyday American life and reminded us that cultural exchange happens through simple, genuine interactions.
A heartfelt thank you to Linda and Mike for opening their home to us and making us feel so welcome. Their kindness and hospitality made the experience truly special.
We are grateful for every person who has welcomed us, shared their time with us, and contributed to our VAST 2026 journey.
