Hey guys, I currently am on the verge of finishing my masters in chemistry in Germany. I am originally from India and don’t want to go back. Although Germany is a seemingly great country to live, unfortunately, for me, it never suited me. I have never been so mentally depressed and unmotivated ever in my life (despite previously having a hard life). I think it’s the loneliness and how you’re just never accepted. I cannot think of living here long term. I have nothing against Germany so I would like to not have comments ‘defending’ my stance of living in Germany. I have made up my mind and I just cannot live such a life. I want to ask which country would be great for me. I have a background in chemistry so would be great to have a country that has opportunities for that. That’s the most important. Preferably an English speaking country. Safe for women. Good work life balance. Acceptance of expats(of course I’m not delusional but at least to an extent).
Also in Norway after living in Germany and I totally agree here. While work-life balance may be better here in some fields, social integration and avoiding loneliness can be even harder here.
I’m always glad to hear other people’s experiences match my own because living here has made me feel not just unwelcome or undesirable but like a social misfit in quite a profound way, and that’s never been the case in any of the other ten countries I’ve lived, worked or studied in.
Had some health issues this year and it’s been really eye opening dealing with the state run services as a foreigner too, who wants to pay so much tax and still be made to feel like a second class citizen?
Getting to the stage I just want to pack my car up and drive until it’s sunny and warm again 🌅