From Free Education to Deportation How Germany Became My Unforgettable Adventure!
From free education in Germany to almost deportation My journey and how it changed my life
Three years after Adriana Stein moved to Germany in 2016 to pursue a free master’s degree, her world came crashing down. She failed a German language test and lost her student visa. But little did she know that this setback would push her to unimaginable success.
Let’s rewind a bit. In 2016, Adriana obtained a bachelor’s degree in English and anthropology from Portland State University. However, that degree came with a heavy load of student debt, turning her life into a financial black hole. It wasn’t until she embarked on a solo backpacking trip to Spain and explored Hamburg, Germany, that she discovered a ray of hope.
In Germany, college education is not only free for Germans but also for anyone who wants to move there and study. This revelation sparked a tantalizing idea in Adriana’s mind – a master’s degree in a foreign country. So, brimming with excitement, she packed her bags, bid farewell to the US, and set foot in Hamburg, hoping for a brighter future.
To pursue a master’s program at the University of Hamburg, Adriana had to pass a specific German language test. Immersed in a new culture and language, she faced a whirlwind of challenges. From mastering the art of recycling to tackling the German bureaucratic labyrinth, Adriana learned the hard way that adapting to the strict rules of Germany was no walk in the park.
But the real test awaited her in the form of the German language test. It covered everything from language skills to statistical calculations, completely unrelated to her degree. Devastatingly, she fell short by a mere three points. Despite her professor’s pleas and pleas, the admissions department turned a blind eye, emphasizing that rules are rules. With that, her student visa flew out the window, leaving Adriana with a daunting ultimatum – find freelance work within two weeks or face deportation.
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Feeling like a failure, Adriana gathered her strength and sprang into action. She navigated the gig economy landscape, harnessing her bilingual skills as a lifeline. Through a German online platform akin to Craigslist, she advertised her expertise and secured various gigs, from content writing to translations. What started as a desperate attempt to prolong her stay in Germany transformed into something extraordinary – Adriana’s own marketing agency.
But let’s not sugarcoat the journey. Finding freelance work in Germany wasn’t a cakewalk for Adriana or anyone else in her shoes. Citizenship, education, language proficiency, and technical skills all played a role in the challenge. Setting up health insurance and deciphering the intricate tax system added to the loneliness and stress. Yet, driven by her unwavering determination, Adriana refused to give up.
In a twist of fate, Germany slamming the door on Adriana’s master’s program turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It forced her to grow rapidly, leaving behind the safety net of student life. She discovered her passion for content marketing and became the manager of her own agency, AS Marketing. With a team of 30 employees, she assists large companies in expanding their reach in international markets. To top it off, she found love and a husband in Hamburg, making it the place she now calls home.
Yet, amidst her success, Adriana confesses that she misses certain aspects of the US. The friendliness and freedom to do things your own way are sentiments that resonate deeply within her. Nevertheless, she appreciates the financial stability and comprehensive health insurance that Germany provides. It’s a trade-off she’s willing to make.
For those considering a move to Germany, Adriana offers sage advice. Connect with fellow expats who have gone through similar experiences and seek their guidance. Avoid relying solely on online research, as much of it may not apply to your specific situation. Instead, go directly to the foreigner’s office to understand the requirements and options firsthand.
Adriana’s journey reminds us that life is full of unexpected turns. Sometimes, a setback can be a hidden opportunity, a test of resilience and adaptability. Failing that German language test and losing her student visa were unquestionably tough, but the strength she gained turned her life around. So, let Adriana’s story inspire you to face your own challenges head-on, for within adversity lies remarkable possibilities.
