In an interview with 24.kg, Aigerim shared her experience of living in another country and talked about the positive and negative aspects of this stage.
Photo from personal archive. Aigerim Asankirimova
— Tell us about yourself.
— I am originally from Bishkek, but my roots go back to Issyk-Kul. After finishing school, I decided to take an academic year to figure out my future. During this time, I studied programming and the German language, and I also spent six months in Ethiopia with my mother, who was working there as a doctor. Upon returning to Kyrgyzstan, I applied for a visa and continued learning the language. As soon as I received permission, I immediately left for Germany.
— Why did you choose to study abroad and which countries did you consider?
— I have always dreamed of traveling to Europe, but I understood that my mother would not be able to support both my studies and living expenses. Therefore, I needed to find a country where I could combine work and study. My cousin, who lives in Germany, told me about such opportunities, and I decided to explore this option. Thus, Germany became a conscious choice, not just a dream.
— How was your adaptation in Germany? What was the most difficult part?
— The adaptation was not easy. I found myself in a purely German environment, not knowing anyone. From the first day, I had to immerse myself in a new society. During the first year, I wanted to give up several times, but my goal — to find a job and build my life — kept me going.
The hardest part was making friends. Germans do not open up immediately, and at first, I felt very lonely, and the gray sky added to the gloom.
— How did you cope with the difficulties?
— My main motivation was a clear goal — to grow, earn, and improve my mother's life. She has always believed in me and supported me, working as a doctor abroad for our family. I owe her everything, and this gratitude was stronger than any desire to give up.
I also received help from psychotherapy and support from close friends with whom I communicated online. The psychologist helped me get out of a state of apathy when I was on the verge of giving up everything. I am grateful to all these people!
— What are the pros and cons of living in Germany that you have identified?
— One of the main advantages is the Ausbildung program. It is a real opportunity for anyone who is ready to work on themselves.
The main disadvantage is the difficulty of integrating into German society; this should be accepted in advance.
Aigerim Asankirimova
There was no cultural shock; rather, there was surprise. I grew up on a diverse Kyrgyz cuisine, and here people can eat only bread with cheese all day and consider it normal. At first, I was genuinely surprised.
— What is Ausbildung? How to prepare for it?
— Ausbildung is a training program combined with work. Over three years, you gain a profession while simultaneously working in that field, receiving a salary or stipend. Upon completion, you become a full-fledged specialist with experience.
First and foremost, it is essential to know the German language. Most employers require a level of at least B1, and many require B2 or higher. Without the language, you cannot go anywhere; it is the foundation, and the rest depends on the chosen field.
— What are your professional responsibilities? Was it difficult to find a job and what is the competition like?
— I work as an IT consultant and perform project manager functions. My job includes negotiations with clients, primarily in the banking sector, identifying their needs, overseeing product development, and training client teams to work with the interface.
I completed my Ausbildung at the same company where I currently work. I was offered a permanent position immediately after finishing my studies. Finding a place for Ausbildung is generally not difficult, but it is important to stand out so that they want to keep you after your studies.
— Do you encounter stereotypes about women in IT?
— There were practically no stereotypes, although there were 19 men and only three girls in my class. At work, it was mentioned that women in this profession are rare, but it was said with respect and joy.
— On social media, you offer help to girls from Kyrgyzstan moving to Germany. Why is this important to you?
— I want to help other girls because I went through loneliness, doubts, and the desire to give up. I know what it is like to lack support. Previously, I had already helped acquaintances with documents and nuances, and now I am ready to provide full assistance. If you are reading this and thinking, “What if I can do it too?” — yes, you can. I can attest to that.
— What advice can you give to your compatriots dreaming of moving to Germany?
— Learn the language! Do it right now, even if you cannot take courses. There are many free resources on the internet. You will have to fight against yourself and your doubts, but it is worth it.
— How do you spend your free time?
— Recently, I started swimming — it is my form of relaxation. I meet with loved ones, watch series, and read. During vacations, I try to travel. These are simple joys that I have learned to appreciate.
— How do you see your life in five years?
— I plan to continue developing my career, move to a more spacious apartment, get a cat, and definitely go on a trip with my mom. She deserves to see the world with me.
In conclusion, I want to say that the main thing is to keep moving towards your goal, even if it seems that nothing is working out. You will succeed!
