American Student Thrives in Germany with Low-Cost Medical Education
Erika Roberts, a 27-year-old medical student from Philadelphia, made a life-changing decision to move to Germany, where she now pays just $100 per semester for her medical education. Roberts, who previously attended college in the United States, sought a more fulfilling academic experience that aligned with her desire for independence and a balanced lifestyle.
Seeking Independence and Cultural Experiences
Roberts first visited Munich at the age of 16 as part of a high school exchange program. She found the city’s vibrant culture and safe public transportation exhilarating. “Even simple things, like buying fresh bread from a bakery and having a picnic by the river, felt exciting,” she recalled. After graduating high school in June 2016, she considered various options for her future, including volunteering abroad in places like Cambodia. However, she realized such opportunities generally required more specialized skills.
She followed a traditional path, touring colleges in the United States and engaging in discussions about education in diverse environments. Despite the conversations aimed at fostering personal growth, Roberts felt unfulfilled at her college in Massachusetts, where she was studying biochemistry with a pre-med focus.
“I never settled in,” Roberts said, reflecting on her time in the US. “I craved independence and a work/life balance but wasn’t connecting with people or feeling like I was becoming the adult I wanted to be.” The pressure of accumulating student loans compounded her dissatisfaction, prompting her to revisit the idea of studying in Germany.
A New Chapter in Germany
In the summer of 2017, after extensive research into Germany’s public education system, Roberts decided to relocate. She felt reassured when her father acknowledged her motivation and supported her decision. Upon arriving in Germany, she dedicated a year to learning the language before enrolling in a preparatory college, which was necessary for her admission to the Technical University of Munich.
Roberts successfully passed the entrance requirements and commenced her medical studies. Now in her second-to-last year, she balances studying for the US medical licensing exams with her doctoral thesis research. She is also partnered with Move Overseas Now to share tips for prospective students considering a move to Germany.
Living in Munich has its benefits, according to Roberts. She enjoys high-quality food, easy access to hiking in the Alps, and the affordability of traveling across Europe. “The cultural events are abundant, and the lifestyle is invigorating,” she noted. Yet, like any location, Munich has its drawbacks. Roberts finds some bureaucratic processes frustrating and admits to missing her family back home.
As she prepares for her future, Roberts has completed one of the three US medical licensing exams and plans to undertake a residency in the United States. “I feel confident about my future,” she stated. “It was a huge step to move here at 19, but it was the right decision.” Her journey reflects not only her personal ambitions but also the broader opportunities available in international education.
