Starting a nursing career abroad is more than a professional move; it’s a life-changing experience filled with courage, learning, and cultural exchange. I am Kanchan Bhise Shanbhag, born and raised in the beautiful state of Goa, surrounded by love, laughter, and endless encouragement.
My parents laid the foundation for everything I’ve become. My father, a lawyer, always said, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” That lesson has guided me through every challenge. My mother, a teacher and librarian, nurtured my curiosity and love for learning, shaping my passion for knowledge and growth.
My Early Journey into Nursing
After completing my Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery in Goa in 2003, I began my journey in healthcare. A few years later, I pursued my Bachelor of Nursing in Mangalore and worked as a clinical coordinator in a nursing college. My deep interest in women’s health motivated me to complete my Master’s in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, supported every step of the way by my family’s unwavering belief in me.
In 2014, my husband’s project brought us to Germany. Long before we moved, I researched how to get licensed as a nurse and began learning the German language to prepare for this transition. When I finally arrived in Germany, life changed in the most meaningful way. I had to adapt to a new culture, complete my professional recognition, and establish myself as a registered nurse in Germany. None of this would have been possible without my husband’s constant support.
Working in intensive care and later as a team head taught me resilience, leadership, and empathy. These skills became invaluable as I built my nursing career in Germany.
India vs. Germany: Two Worlds, One Heart
When I first moved from India to Germany, it felt like stepping into a completely new rhythm of life, exciting, challenging, and full of discovery. Both countries are rich in culture and values, but their lifestyles couldn’t be more different.
Community vs. Individualism
In India, life revolves around community. Family, friends, and neighbors form a close-knit circle, always checking in, sharing meals, and celebrating together. You never feel alone.
In Germany, privacy and independence are highly valued. People respect personal space and quietness. I learned that silence here isn’t a distance; it’s a sign of respect. Over time, I began to appreciate this balance and the peace it brings.
Time and Punctuality
In India, time is flexible. Plans often flow naturally, and being a little late is rarely a big deal.
In Germany, punctuality is a way of life. Whether it’s a train, a meeting, or dinner with friends, being on time reflects respect and reliability. Adapting to this taught me discipline and appreciation for structure.
Food and Mealtimes
In India, food is love. Meals are vibrant, spicy, and social moments to connect and celebrate. I often miss the aroma of Goan fish curry and the laughter around the dining table.
In Germany, food is simpler but deeply traditional. Bread, cheese, and potatoes are stapled, and mealtimes are calm and structured. I now enjoy blending both worlds, Goan curries with German bread and salads.
Work-Life Balance
Indian professionals are incredibly hardworking, often blending personal and work life. While admirable, it can sometimes lead to burnout.
Germany taught me the value of work-life balance. Evenings and weekends are sacred, time to rest, reflect, and reconnect. I’ve learned to slow down, take long walks, and enjoy quiet Sundays with no shops open.
Lifestyle and Daily Routine
India’s energy is unmatched, full of sounds, colors, and celebration. Every day feels alive.
Germany offers calm, order, and cleanliness. At first, the quiet felt strange, but now I find comfort in peace, in the sound of church bells and the beauty of well-kept gardens.
Social Relationships
In India, relationships grow fast and deep. Friends become family.
In Germany, connections take time but are built on sincerity and trust. Once formed, they are strong and lasting. I’ve learned to appreciate both India’s warmth and Germany’s dependability.
Freedom and Safety
Germany offers a strong sense of freedom and safety. Walking alone at night, expressing opinions openly, and trusting social systems are all part of daily life.
In India, while community support is strong, unpredictability and inequality can be challenges. Yet, India’s resilience and optimism remain unmatched.
Personal Growth
Living in Germany has taught me patience, independence, and equality. My Indian roots keep me grounded, reminding me of compassion, creativity, and the joy of human connection.
India taught me to live from the heart. Germany taught me to live with balance. Together, they shaped me into who I am today — a blend of warmth, discipline, and global perspective.
Giving Back Through BorderPlus
Over the years, I’ve learned that adapting to a new country takes more than professional skills; it takes emotional strength and cultural understanding.
Through BorderPlus, I help aspiring nurses prepare for their nursing careers abroad, especially those moving to Germany. We support them not only professionally but also emotionally and culturally, guiding them through language learning, lifestyle adaptation, and licensing preparation.
Today, as a lecturer and research assistant at the University of Tübingen and a practicing midwife, I strive to give back what life has taught me that growth happens when we embrace change and learn from both worlds.
Life in India is colorful, spontaneous, and full of community.
Life in Germany is calm, structured, and deeply respectful of individuality.
Both have their magic. Living between these two worlds has shown me that growth doesn’t come from choosing one culture over another, but from embracing both.
By: Kanchan Bhise Shanbhag
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