Surprising Experiences of Studying in Germany: A Deeper Look
Undoubtedly, moving to a new country like Germany to pursue higher studies can be an eye-opening experience. Being fully prepared with as much information as possible helps, but it's the subtle differences and surprising encounters that truly make the experience enriching. In this article, we delve into some of the most unexpected aspects of living and studying in Germany that might surprise even the most prepared students.
Electronic Appliances and Automation in Daily Life
One of the incongruences that struck me was the meticulous way German households manage their energy consumption. Unlike in many countries, where every light switch is a manual task, the corridor lights in Germany operate on an automated timer. For instance, when I first moved in, I was taken aback by the ingenious design: I flick the switch, and it turns the light on for just two minutes—sufficient for me to reach my apartment. So, if I'm in a rush, I can switch it on and go, and it will automatically turn off after the set duration. It's a simple yet effective way to save electricity, and it reminded me that we could learn from this.
German Hospitality and Efficiency
The handling of the lost debit card incident was another eye-opener. Losing a debit card can be a daunting experience, but in Germany, things tend to work differently. When I lost my only debit card, I somehow managed to block it within a-store. However, the process of blocking a card online was unexpectedly complex, and I ended up blocking my own online banking account instead! In the middle of a weekend, where services can be limited, the urgency was amplified. With no one around to help, I resorted to calling the customer service representative. Thankfully, thanks to my German friend, I was able to communicate the situation, and soon, the police arrived to return my card. Recovering a lost card within three hours in a foreign land is no small feat.
Unique German Vocabulary and Cultural Nuances
Another surprising aspect of German culture is the unique vocabulary used for specific situations. The term 'Kummerspeck' is a prime example. It refers to the excess weight gained during periods of grief as a result of excessive eating. This word encapsulates an experience that many may not even realize has a specific term. Additionally, the fact that many such words cannot be directly translated into English or other languages underscores the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Germany.
A Lack of Standard Pricing
The absence of fixed product prices like M.R.P. in India is another surprising aspect of German retail culture. For instance, a 400-gram packet of chicken might cost around 235 Euros in one supermarket, but the same product could be priced at around 265 Euros in another store like REWE or LIDL. The pricing is never printed on the product itself, leading to a certain level of buyer caution. While the concept of flexible pricing can be expected in a retail environment, the extent to which prices can vary from store to store is something that still baffles me. What is considered acceptable for a shop to fix its own prices, especially when different stores offer the same product at significantly different rates?
These experiences not only highlight the cultural and lifestyle differences between India and Germany but also offer valuable insights into the unique aspects of German society. Whether it's the efficient use of technology, the warmth of human interactions, or the flexibility in pricing, each element contributes to the rich tapestry of German life. For students and travelers alike, understanding and embracing these differences can greatly enhance the experience of studying and living in Germany.