23M from the USA studying my masters in energy engineering in Munich, Germany.
I have enjoyed Munich so far (1 year in) and made some occasional, hang out sometimes on the weekends type friends, but no close friends I can talk to daily or every other day about anything deeper than surface level stuff. I am scared this will just continue if I choose to live here long term, as making friends in Germany without speaking German is notoriously hard. If I were offered an internship or full time position, I would make it a priority to learn German.
I was planning to go back to the US to start looking for jobs after graduating, but I might have an opportunity to intern and then maybe work at a famous Bavarian automotive company as a battery engineer. I love the benefits of working here and work-life balance, even at a lower salary. The salary at this company is also a bit higher than other companies in the region for my position.
This has got me thinking where would you guys recommend to stay?
Weather is not an issue for me as I really enjoy Munich’s weather — it is pretty similar to the Northeast where I’m from.
Thanks!
Whatever you choose. I wouldn’t worry too much about it. I’m old now. But I was in your situation. About 25 years ago. I studied in Germany for a year and then finished in DC.
All the people who look at my CV enjoyed seeing that I spent a year in Germany. It’s a good conversation starter in Germany is respected worldwide for technical fields.
You’re right haha, I’m starting at a more advantageous position than others, and should take advantage of that.