From the Ruhr region via southern Germany to Brandenburg: Eugenio S. knew early on that he wanted to live and work abroad one day. During his studies in his home country Argentina, a scholarship brought him to Bochum. The next step was an internship in southern Germany as another important experience for him. He came back here with a degree in civil engineering and has now found his dream job in Brandenburg.
Zitat:Team: This is your third time coming to Germany, what was your motivation to come to Germany in particular?
Eugenio S.: When I was young, I always had the dream of living, studying and working abroad. In my third year at university, I was given the opportunity to get a scholarship in Germany. I focused all my motivation on this goal: I started learning German, got to grips with the culture and began a research project.
I visited a German university for six months and then did an internship here in Germany.
It all started with the scholarship, but I developed a special relationship with Germany as a result.
Team: Even though you have been here before, did you experience any obstacles? What would you say was the biggest challenge for you and how did you overcome it?
Eugenio S.: My biggest challenge was communication - speaking to others and understanding them in German.
When I was in Germany for the first time, I could hardly understand the lecturers. It was also almost impossible to communicate with my fellow students. I started practicing with two tandem partners twice a week and also had a host family with whom I practiced a lot. I later did my internship in the countryside, where everyone spoke German. That also helped me a lot.
Team: Did the ZAV also play a part in overcoming any difficulties? Was it important for you to be in touch with ZAV?
Eugenio S.: The contact with my advisor was very helpful. She was a great support for me. She helped me right from the start with my documents, giving tips and correcting my application. She also supported me in my job search and helped me prepare for the interview.
Basically, the contact with the ZAV was very helpful for me and I think it was also very important for the employer. They know a person in Germany who is familiar with the visa and resident regulations and knows what to do. It is also a trustworthy source for this kind of information.
I would also like to add that the ZAV played a very special role in my journey. I felt at ease thanks to their support.
I have also recommended ZAV to many friends and some of them are already in touch. I myself also found ZAV through the recommendation from a friend as well.
Team: What do you like best about Germany so far? Did you have a chance to find that out yet?
Eugenio S.: What I like best is the variety of opportunities that Germany offers. Not only can you find a good job here, you can also attend a well-respected university. There are many prospects for a career in Germany. Especially due to the shortage of skilled workers, you may have a lot of options.
There are also many options for your time off, you can travel all over Germany or even Europe by train for example.
Team: How do you like your work so far? Is it different from what you are used to in Argentina?
Eugenio S.: I like my work and my colleagues are very nice and polite. They help me a lot. What surprised me was the organization of the company. How well the planning of a construction site works, how many machines are available, the materials etc. - everything is connected and works very well. That surprised me and I really like it. I've only been here for two months, but I've started at a good time. Many construction sites are starting now and it was a good start for me.
Team: At the end of our interview today, our most important question: Do you have any tips for others who are interested to work in Germany?
Eugenio S.: I would recommend two things: learning the language and gaining professional experience beforehand. I don't think the second is as important, but if you've already gained work experience in your home country, it's definitely an advantage when looking for a job.
However, I think the first thing is much more important: learning the language. In Germany, you always need German in everyday life: in the supermarket, in the pharmacy, at the authorities, everywhere. You also definitely need German to communicate with your colleagues. It's their mother tongue. They also speak English, but they all communicate with each other in German.
Another tip: if you can do an internship or other life experience in Germany beforehand, it's also helpful. You get to know a bit about life in Germany and know what to expect. You can inform yourself well in advance, but it's different when you live here.
Germany is also very large and the regions are very different. The people are not the same everywhere either. You have to try out where you like it best. There are opportunities everywhere!
Team: Thank you very much for your time and we wish you all the best for your future in Germany!