When Virginia Swan visited our school on 2nd October 2026, she came with a simple purpose: to introduce us to the United States and answer whatever questions we had. The 78-year-old American was open to discussing almost anything and encouraged students to ask questions freely. The conversation quickly moved through all kinds of topics, from sports and food to politics, history and everyday life in the US. Instead of feeling like a formal presentation, it became an open conversation where students could learn about America through the experiences and opinions of someone who has lived there for most of her life.
Originally from New England, Maine and now living in Connecticut, Virginia Swan’s connection to Germany began when she was only 18. After studying Latin and Spanish, she eventually turned to German after her brother returned from a visit to Germany and encouraged her to learn the language. What started as another subject at university became a lifelong connection. Today, some of her favorite things about Germany are its old towns, castles, classical music and “Fachwerkhäuser“. She especially enjoys places where you can still feel their connection to history.
As a former teacher, Ms. Swan remembers that some of her best students were immigrants. She strongly opposes racism and finds it difficult to understand why differences in skin color or religion can lead to hatred. Not all of her stories are serious though. There are unexpected details throughout her life. She went to college with Stephen King, took part in a “spelling bee“ in third grade and discovered her love for languages at a very young age.
Virginia Swan also speaks openly about the United States. There are many things happening in the country that she disagrees with politically, but that does not change the love she has for her home.
Away from politics and history, Virginia loves reading,walking and hiking. She enjoys the Beatles, British music in general, country music and especially the musical “Hamilton“. Her favorite book is “To Kill a Mockingbird“ by Harper Lee and her favorite historical figure is Abraham Lincoln. But when asked what she could not live without, her answer was not a book, a place or a piece of music. It was people. She loves having company and being around others.
Maybe that is what connects all the different parts of Virginia Swan’s life. She has spent decades traveling, teaching and learning, but she has never lost her curiosity. Her advice to younger people is: work hard, be honest and keep educating yourself. Or, as Virginia Swan herself puts it: “When you learn more, you understand more.“
author: Melanie Schmidt, 10/2
