Why I moved to Germany
I have officially been in Germany for 2 months! It’s still hard to believe that I am still here. Things have settled down but I still await my Visa. I have kept busy by creating a business, applying for important documents, and learning German. As things have settled, I have time to think about why moving abroad was the best choice for me. I know it’s not for everyone, but here are my TOP 5 reasons I moved to Germany.
Reason #1: My Relationship
My partner and I were in a long-distance relationship for four years. He lived in Germany, while I called New York my home. Long-distance relationships are undeniably challenging, especially when they span over four years and occur amidst a pandemic. Both of us wanted to live together, but the obstacles of visa requirements, job titles, and personal circumstances made it difficult.
At the beginning of my fourth year working as a school psychologist, I made the courageous decision to embark on a new journey and move abroad. Although it was difficult, I realized that I didn't want to spend the rest of my life always wondering "What if." It was now or never. As the year progressed, job opportunities abroad also opened up for me.
Reason #2: Burn Out
I know that our field is known for burnout, but I did not think it would occur as quickly as it did. Burnout took a huge toll on me, physically and mentally. I remember thinking that I would use the summer vacation to recover, and then the new school year would be a “fresh start." But the reality was, that burnout stays in your body for quite some time. I tried to stay positive about my job, I reduced the work I took home, I advocated for additional help and support, and I even stopped attending extracurricular events. But no matter what I did, I was exhausted ALL THE TIME. I went home, ate, went to bed, and went to work. I was irritable, I had many mood swings, and I even cried in my car often. This was not the life I wanted to live.
I know that in Germany, you don’t have a set amount of sick days. If you are sick, you just take off. If you need extra time, the doctor writes you a note. If you are burnt out, you can get prescribed sick (for a few months even), you continue to get paychecks, and you do not lose your job. In serious cases, they send you to rehabilitation. America would NEVER. My goal isn't to be burnt out again, but to live in a society that sets you up for support is encouraging and refreshing.
Reason #3: Maternity Leave
I have always known I wanted to be a mother. Maternity leave does not really exist in the US. I saved ALL of my sick days for “when I have a baby.” In NY, you are eligible for Family Leave, which is 12 weeks with 67% of your salary.
If you want additional time, you MUST use sick days in order to get payed.
Germany has maternity leave but also parents’ leave. Extra time to spend with your newborn child is what should be considered the norm.
Germany’s Maternity Leave:
Women are eligible for 14 weeks of maternity leave and it can begin before the child is born.
There are strict laws that protect pregnant women, including:
how many hours you can work
appropriate accommodations (e.g. seating such as reclining chairs, breaks as needed)
protection from chemical or biological pollutants that are considered harmful
For example, if working in a school, mothers are typically sent home earlier as there are many viruses that can be harmful to a pregnant mother and her unborn child.
Germany’s Parent Leave (in addition to Maternity Leave):
Parent Leave can be split between you and your partner and can last for up to 14 months (depending on your circumstances).
Your job is safe! You continue to receive a paycheck to support you and your child.
Reason #4: Cost of Living
NYC is expensive! I was still living with my parents because, with my salary, I could not afford an apartment and all other expenses that come along with living alone (food, insurance, utility bills, car bills, etc.). In my last year of working, I was making $78,000 that year.
In Germany, my partner is making about 1/3 of what I made. With his income alone, we can afford to live comfortably AND still have enough money for savings. There is no stress about living paycheck to paycheck. Because the cost of living is low, a work-life balance is possible.
Reason #5: Working as a Freelancer
I found an incredible company that hired me as a Freelance School Psychologist. Once my visa is approved, I can work on my own time. I can say how much I want on my caseload, including counseling, coaching, and evaluations.
The company I work for has provided me with a plethora of resources, testing materials, and templates for how their reports are written. I was given onboarding meetings where I met the team, and learned the platforms that are used. I am provided with a mentor and can ask questions at any given point in time. Last but not least, I am a TRAVELING School Psychologist!! Meaning I am traveling all over Europe to complete evaluations. Something I could have only dreamed of as a job.
I do not feel pressured by this company and have been welcomed with open arms. I am super hopeful about where this will lead in the future.