Lucas P. is 30 years old and holds an Italian and a Brazilian passport. He has completed his studies in Hungary. He is what you might call a globetrotter - now he has not only found his dream job as an automotive engineer, he also found Munich to be his favourite place. Today he feels at home in Germany.
Zitat:Team: You have already lived in many different countries, what was your motivation to come to Germany in particular? Did you do any research before?
Lucas: Even as a child, I always wanted to go to Germany. One of the reasons was that I wanted to be an engineer or a scientist. Germany has always been a reference for technology, higher standards and quality products. Germany also has a strong economy and there is a great need for qualified professionals. As a skilled worker, you have better opportunities and a better quality of work than in some other countries. I mostly did my research about the country and its people via Google or YouTube. There are great videos on YouTube on many topics about Germany.
Team: What was the biggest challenge for you and how did you overcome it?
Lucas: It was very difficult to find a flat. When you're completely new to a city and don't know anyone, it's a bit complicated. However, I kept at it and in the end my persistence payed off. I would also mention the language. If you've never had any contact with the language before, it's very difficult. I learnt German intensively for two months before I came here. I still make mistakes, but I'm improving every day.
Also, the Germans are perhaps a little “colder” than people elsewhere. I have to get used to that. I like it though, they are very direct. Sometimes it might come across as a bit rude, but they are always honest, they don’t put on a show. I think it's great, in other countries you often never find out what people think (about you). It's different here in Germany. It was really strange at first, but I haven't had any bad experiences yet. You just have to adjust to it.
Team: How did ZAV support your journey? Was it important for you to have an advisor at ZAV? Did you benefit from our support?
Lucas: I got to know the ZAV through an online event about moving to Germany. Afterwards I got in touch with one of the advisors and we had an appointment to discuss the next steps and clarify my questions. She showed me a lot of support and we agreed to stay in touch. She also introduced me to the Target Mobility Scheme funding via EURES and I was able to apply for financial support.
I think it's important to have someone you can talk to about your options and possibilities. Especially about things like salary. I had no idea about the salary structure in Germany and the regional differences. I always got very helpful information from the ZAV.
We also talked about the first steps when you arrive in Germany. How to look for a flat and which people to contact. I was well prepared for what was to come.
Team: How do you like your new job so far?
Lucas: I like the work very much; the quality of the work is very good. There is a lot of trust between employer and employee - we are free to organize our work. Of course, we have our duties and I have to work a lot, but there is also a lot of flexibility. We are not expected to work much more than our working hours. Of course, we work overtime if necessary, but you can also have some time to yourself after work. Germans still try to enjoy life - I really like that.
Team: What is your favorite thing about Germany so far? What do you like best?
Lucas: I particularly like the cleanliness in Munich. Everything is very tidy. I love the organization and the security that you find here compared to some other countries. Also, the German language is very precise, there are lots of details. There is always something to learn and it never gets boring.
Team: Do you have any tips for people interested in coming to Germany?
Lucas: It is absolutely necessary to learn German. You have to communicate with others and not everyone can speak English or other languages. Therefore, German language skills are very important. Especially when looking for a job. Many employers are looking for someone who already knows German or at least has a B1 level.
The second thing I would say is that you should find out about the rules in Germany in advance. There are a few rules that I would never have expected. For example, that you're not allowed to ride a bike if you've had a drink or two. That was a big surprise for me.
Or waste separation, which is also sometimes very complicated. You have to educate yourself and learn about these things beforehand.
Team: Thank you very much for taking the time to talk to us. We wish you all the best for the future.