International Researchers in Germany
Coaching for international researchers
Being an international scientist in Germany
As an international researcher in Germany, you are about to embark on a fascinating and challenging journey. Germany offers a rich academic landscape, world-class research institutions and a diverse, vibrant culture. However, the transition to a new country, with a new language and an often complex bureaucracy, can be overwhelming at times.
Research in Germany – Challenges
And the German academic system itself has its own set of rules. As an international researcher, besides your actual research work, you have to grapple with concepts like the Science Fixed-Term Contract Law (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG), learn why third-party funding is so important, and figure out which of the many research institutions offer you the right career opportunities. These peculiarities of the system are often challenging even for German researchers – for international researchers, they can initially seem like an inscrutable puzzle.
Have you ever asked yourself these questions:
My coaching is the right choice for you if
- You don’t want to be presented with “ready-made knowledge”, but are looking for tailor-made solutions and strategies.
- You want to develop your individual background, resources and strengths and learn how to use them in a goal- and solution-oriented way.
- You are ready to actively work on yourself and take responsibility for yourself and your emotional well-being.
- You want to feel joy and satisfaction (again) when you think about your work.
One of the most effective ways to learn about yourself is by taking seriously the cultures of others. It forces you to pay attention to those details of life which differentiate them from you.
– Edward T. Hall
Where can I help you specifically?
Dealing with the first “culture shock”
Moving to another country brings with it many emotional challenges. Homesickness, cultural adjustment difficulties and the pressure of finding your way in a new environment where you don’t know the rules can be quite stressful! With my coaching I can help you process the many new impressions, experiences and challenges. You will learn to reflect on yourself and your perceptions, to understand your surroundings better and to integrate the many new experiences into your self-image and world view.
Dealing with intercultural issues and conflicts
Living and working in a foreign culture can be full of pitfalls. The inevitable experience of cultural misunderstandings and language barriers can leave you constantly questioning yourself and your understanding of conversations and situations. Although this is normal in this situation, it can be exhausting. In my coaching sessions I help you to deal with these situations in a more relaxed and easier way.
Background: What makes “Germans” tick?
Germans are a strange people! And although science is often portrayed as international and globally conformist, there are of course national and cultural differences. In our coaching sessions, we will discuss your general questions as well as specific situations in which the behaviour and cultural characteristics of your German colleagues may have surprised you.
Background and interesting facts about the German science system
The German academic system is special – just like all other academic systems! Many things work differently here than you are used to, and often these differences only become apparent at second glance. With my many years of experience not only in science itself, but also in science management, I can help you put things into perspective and explain the background. This will give you more confidence in dealing with your colleagues, students, professors and the administration.
Want to know more?
Take the first step
If you are curious about how I can help you on your scientific journey, I would like to invite you to a personal introductory meeting. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other better, discuss your goals and see how my coaching expertise can help you take the next step.
Erfolgscoaching für Wissenschaftler:Innen
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Über Dr. Julia Schmidt