From Kerala to Munich, My Journey through Culture, Climate and Community

When I left India to pursue my Masters in Germany, I expected new experiences. Crazy cars, a poppy hip-hop culture and fountains filled with beer. Little did I know that the journey would reshape me and how I see the world and myself.

Cultural Shock that hits you before the cold does

I was fortunate to arrive in Munich in early September when the cold only started to creep in. My tropical upbringing was not prepared for what comes after the beautiful colors of October. Back home, winter meant “Maybe ill wear a hoodie” here it means “Why do my fingers hurt”. But somewhere between clothes that take 2 days to dry and learning the magic of layering clothes, I began to appreciate the beauty of a country where seasons actually exist.

And then the culinary episode.

To put it lightly – coming from India, where every dish explodes with a thousand spices and each mothers’ secret recipes, German food initially felt… bland (still does). But over time I realized something: it is healthier, cleaner, lighter, and leaves you feeling surprisingly good. I still, very so often end with the conclusion: My stomach approves but my heart and taste buds are still negotiating.

And the sense of order, where do I begin. Roads, public offices, appointments—everything flows with a structure that can be simply put as ‘German’. Things run on time (okay, mostly – except for the days the bus or train decides to test your patience). But even then, there is a system, or a solution. But I guess that is because I persistently compare it with home where traffic is a form of ego negotiation and offices make you believe in God.

The Hardest Goodbye

Moving countries is exciting in theory, but the emotional cost hits differently. Leaving behind my family, friends, and especially my dog Archie, was the hardest part. I still find myself looking at pictures of him and how he’d have loved it here – The English Garden, the cold weather. Bet he’s still wondering where I went. I miss my mom’s warmth, the endless arguments with my sister and the sunsets with my girlfriend. I miss my friends more than I expected – the people who made even the most chaotic days feel lighter. I miss the hangouts, the late-night drives, and the tea stalls that were part of our daily routine.

I come from a stereotypical Indian corporate life – where decisions and gossip were made over chai, and life happened in between all the deadlines. Amazing how the silence feels heavier when you come from a place that never sleeps. The small aches stay with you, but it also pushes you to make the change worthwhile.

Finding Purpose and Pride at NEC

One of the biggest blessings of my time here has been the opportunity to work within the college itself. Working here showed me something special about this college: isn’t just an institution, its second home, built, supported, and upheld by its own students. The pride you feel when you become a part of something you help grow, is different. I don’t know many institutes where you can march into the academic office anytime and be greeted with a high five and an insult at the same time. Sense of ownership, belonging and responsibility become inherent. Makes you feel like more than students.

Two Countries, Two Worlds, One Confused Happy Student

Challenges are part of life; they’ve taught me and changed me. From navigating cultural differences to better gut health – every moment has shaped who I am. Germany has made me stronger, healthier, colder, and occasionally lost. India still lives in my heart (and in my spice drawer). But Germany is slowly becoming home too.

If the website crashes after December, I have not survived the Winter.
Prost.

Interested in continuing the conversation with Dhanvin? Feel free to reach out and contact him at dhanvin.vinod@new-european-college.com Dhavnin is looking forward to hearing from you and supporting your journey to becoming a student at New European College in Munich, Germany!