As a student， studying abroad is one of the most exciting opportunities. However， returning home can be equally as stressful， especially when considering all the tasks that need to be completed before departure. Here is a checklist of items to consider before leaving Germany and returning home:
1. Notify Your University: It is essential to inform your German university that you are leaving， submit any required paperwork， return any borrowed items， and pay any outstanding fees.
2. Notify Your Landlord: If you are currently renting a property in Germany， it is crucial to inform your landlord of your departure. Provide them with at least one month's notice so that they can find new tenants to occupy the space once you leave.
3. Power of Attorney: You may need to arrange for a power of attorney if you have any outstanding debts or legal responsibilities in Germany that require attention even when you are outside of the country.
4. Cancel your subscriptions: Terminate or cancel any newspaper subscriptions， gym memberships， or other monthly or yearly expenses that have automatic billing.
5. Bank Accounts: If you have a German bank account， you need to inform your bank that you are leaving. Settle any outstanding bills， withdraw your funds， and close the account if needed.
6. Clear your medical bills: Medical bills are costly and may accrue if left uncleared. Ensure that you pay all medical bills before leaving Germany.
7. Collect Your Degree: Collect your degree certificate from your German university. This document is essential and may be required in future by potential employers or education institutions.
8. Return any borrowed items: If you borrowed any items from any German institution， ensure that you return the items， whether it is books or electronic equipment， before leaving Germany.
9. Sell or Donate Items: If you have any items that you do not need， consider selling or donating them to charity. This will help you have a lighter travel load.
10. Closing a Phone Contract: If you have a phone contract， you can terminate the contract once you leave Germany. You should inform your service provider 1 to 2 months before your departure.
In conclusion， leaving Germany can be exciting， but it is necessary to prepare yourself for a smooth transition. With this checklist， you can ensure that you have everything you need to leave， with no outstanding responsibilities.
