If there is one question I dread and to which I am still not able to invent a satisfactory reply, it is the question what exactly means to settle in a new country?
It is definitely a very beginning on new terrain. And as every begging in life, it means time spent out of the comfort zone.
Before moving to Darmstadt I had already been in Germany many times, studied at the University of Leipzig and had teaching experience in German as a foreign language in my country. But, only when moved from my home town to live here, I realized what I really needed to know:
Before moving to Darmstadt I had already been in Germany many times, studied at the University of Leipzig and had teaching experience in German as a foreign language in my country. But, only when moved from my home town to live here, I realized what I really needed to know:
- How do you persuade German landlords to rent a suitable apartment to academics from abroad?
- How do you approach an employer in Germany and make the right impression?
- How do you find the right health insurance and medical help?
- Which authorities are to be contacted?
- Which are relevant insurances?
- How do you inroll for daycare place and what is good shool? The list goes on.
My worries as newcomer, are very similar to the worries of your new hires from abroad. Solving those questions and insecurities is crucial to settling in in the region and in Germany in general.