“Never give up and always be open for new opportunities.” This single quote has shaped so much of who I am today. When I decided to move from India to Germany, it wasn’t just about pursuing higher education—it was about stepping into a new life, a new culture, and a new version of myself.
Everything felt different: the rules, the documentation, the way people interact, the education system, even the way people spend their weekends. Germany challenged me at every step, but it also gave me the space to grow—personally, academically, and emotionally. Looking back, I realize that this journey wasn’t just about studying abroad; it was about learning how to thrive outside my comfort zone.
Why I Chose Germany Over the USA or Staying Back in India
When I first shared my plans with family and friends, many people suggested that I should aim for the USA, Canada, or the UK—popular destinations where English is the primary language. Some even thought it would be better for me to stay back in India. But deep inside, I already knew what I wanted.
My passion lay in nanotechnology and semiconductors. Germany’s strong focus on research and innovation, combined with the huge advantage of free or low-cost education, made it the perfect choice. I had visualized myself pursuing a master’s degree in Germany, getting a job in my field, and ultimately building a better future not just for myself, but for my family too.
So, while others debated, my goal was crystal clear. Germany wasn’t just an option—it was the destination that aligned with my ambitions.
Preparing for the Big Move
The process of getting admission and applying for a visa wasn’t as stressful for me as it is for many. I decided to take help from an educational consultancy to save time and avoid mistakes. With a conditional admission letter in hand, I began preparing for my move.
But there was one big hurdle—the German language. As someone who has always been more comfortable with numbers, formulas, and experiments, learning a new language was an uphill climb. I wouldn’t say I mastered it quickly, but I made sure to prepare in advance by practicing basics and doing my research.
I looked up everything—from details about my course to the layout of the city, to practical things like how I would reach my university on my first day. This groundwork gave me confidence and made the transition smoother.
First Impressions: Finding Comfort in Community
Landing in Germany for the first time was overwhelming. Everything looked organized but unfamiliar. For an introvert like me, the thought of making new friends in such an environment was intimidating.
But one of the biggest blessings of being Indian abroad is the huge Indian community. Within my first few weeks, I attended cultural events like Garba Night, which instantly made me feel at home. Slowly, I started meeting people who were going through similar experiences, and that sense of belonging helped me settle down.
The Education System: A New Way of Learning
One of the biggest adjustments was the education system. Back in India, professors usually go the extra mile to make sure students understand concepts, and group study is very common. In Germany, it’s different.
- Professors focus on self-study and independent learning.
- Lectures are usually concise, and it’s up to students to dive deeper.
- The system is flexible—you can take subjects from different semesters and even plan your degree path.
This flexibility is both a blessing and a challenge. For example, if you feel unprepared for an exam, you can deregister and try again next semester. But this also means that discipline and time management are non-negotiable.
I admire how much Germany values skills and talent, though I also noticed that language can be a barrier when it comes to internships and jobs.
Challenges of Living in Germany as an International Student
1. Homesickness
Homesickness is inevitable when you move abroad. For me, it hit hardest during my first winter in Germany. Back in India, I was used to living with friends, sharing rooms, and enjoying open spaces. Suddenly, I found myself in a compact apartment that felt more like a cell than a home.
I overcame this by sticking to a routine: waking up early, exercising, cooking, and setting small daily goals. I also made it a point to meet friends for dinner or casual chats, which gave me a sense of community.
2. Food Adjustments
Food was another challenge. Even basic fruits taste slightly different here. At first, the food at Mensa (university canteen) and German restaurants didn’t appeal to me. Slowly, I began experimenting with my own cooking.
My go-to meal became simple yet filling: boiled pulses or frozen vegetables cooked with tomato purée, paired with bread, tortillas, or rice. For breakfast, I stick to oats, müsli, and hot cocoa milk.
Over time, I even started enjoying some German dishes. It taught me to be open to new flavors while still holding on to my Indian roots.
3. Financial Management
Managing finances abroad is a whole skill in itself. In my first year, I made it a practice to visit different stores weekly just to compare prices. I learned to:
- Buy in bulk during discounts.
- Track my monthly expenses in a price log.
- Use my student ID for discounts on travel, museums, and even shopping.
- Plan purchases 3–4 months in advance, especially for clothes or electronics.
This habit not only saved me money but also made me smarter about budgeting.
How Discipline Changed My Life
If there’s one thing that kept me grounded, it was discipline. In a country where no one is going to push you to complete your assignments, wake you up for class, or remind you to eat healthy, self-discipline becomes your best friend.
I created a routine that balanced:
- Studies and self-research.
- Daily exercise to keep my body active.
- Reading and skill-building to keep my mind engaged.
- Socializing occasionally to avoid isolation.
This balance helped me fight homesickness, manage stress, and stay motivated.
Growth Beyond Academics
Studying abroad is not just about academics—it’s about personal growth. Germany forced me to adapt, to break out of my comfort zone, and to become more independent.
- I learned how to cook for myself.
- I learned how to navigate an entirely new system of education.
- I developed financial awareness and smarter spending habits.
- Most importantly, I learned how to prioritize my own well-being while living far from family.
Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking
Moving from India to Germany has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. From the language barrier to homesickness, from adapting to food to managing finances, every struggle has shaped me into a stronger, more disciplined person.
For anyone planning to study in Germany or any other country, my advice is simple:
- Be open to learning.
- Prepare as much as you can, but don’t expect perfection.
- Stay disciplined, because no one else will do it for you.
- And most importantly, never give up.
As I remind myself often: “Everything happens for a reason, but make things happen if you decide to.”
