Hey there, folks! Today, I want to share a fascinating tale of ambition, adventure, and academic excellence. Meet Abhishek Srivastava, a young lad from Lucknow, India, who embarked on an exciting journey to pursue his dreams of global exposure. His destination? The enchanting land of Germany, where his story unfolded.
A Desire Kindled
Abhishek’s journey began with a desire, a yearning for something more than what he could find in his homeland. Although India offered incredible opportunities and resources, it lacked that critical global perspective. It wasn’t until he completed his master’s degree at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 2018 that Abhishek decided to take the plunge into the world of international education.
The Road Less Traveled
Abhishek’s initial plan was to study at BAM Berlin, the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, as part of a collaboration between the Indian and German governments. However, life had other plans for him, and he had to put his dreams on hold due to some family issues.
For the next few years, from September 2018 to July 2021, Abhishek worked as a research and development engineer at a private company in India. But he didn’t give up on his dream of studying abroad. In July 2021, he seized an opportunity to become a project scientist (research associate) at IIT Ropar. Here, he delved into a project that aimed to enhance the efficiency of pharmaceutical drugs through ultrasound assistant crystallization.
The Turning Point
The turning point in Abhishek’s journey came during the latter part of 2022 when he stumbled upon a job vacancy at the University of Freiburg, Germany. Without hesitation, he applied for the position, leading to an interview in December 2022, and ultimately, Abhishek packed his bags and joined the university in March 2023.
Navigating the Opportunities
Abhishek’s journey was greatly facilitated by platforms like Euraxess, European job websites that connect aspiring researchers with opportunities across Europe. With his impressive academic record and research experience, Abhishek had a strong case to present.
Smooth Sailing
What’s remarkable about Abhishek’s story is how smooth his application process was. All he needed were his transcripts, certificates, a well-crafted CV highlighting his research accomplishments, and a compelling cover letter. No letters of recommendation were required, only the names of references. The interview confirmed his selection, and he had his confirmation letter before he knew it.
Research and Beyond
Now, let’s dive into the heart of Abhishek’s journey: his research. As a doctoral researcher at the University of Freiburg, Abhishek enjoys a unique perk—he doesn’t pay tuition; he gets paid! With a monthly stipend of over 3000 euros (around 2000 euros after taxes), Abhishek can comfortably sustain himself in Germany.
Innovative Research
Abhishek’s research revolves around micro and nano fluidics. He and his colleagues are on a quest to create materials that mimic living organisms, equipped with systems for self-healing. Despite his background in mechanical engineering, Abhishek’s diverse experiences have allowed him to venture into various fields, including cell culture and chemical engineering.
Embracing German Life
Abhishek’s life in Germany is an adventure in itself. He lives alone in an apartment, which costs him around 500 euros a month. The quality of life in Germany is superb, from the pristine air and water to the delectable food.
A Rich Social Life
Abhishek has seamlessly integrated into the local culture and built a global network of friends from Germany, India, Italy, Greece, Iran, and more. Germans are renowned for their open-mindedness and curiosity about different cultures, making Abhishek feel right at home.
Embracing New Experiences
Living abroad means taking charge of all aspects of daily life, from cooking and cleaning to grocery shopping. It’s a stark contrast to the household help many are accustomed to in India. Abhishek has embraced this newfound independence, honing his culinary skills and learning the art of self-sufficiency.
A Taste of Home
Even in a foreign land, Abhishek hasn’t forgotten his roots. He’s introduced his friends to Indian cuisine, hosting a memorable barbeque where they relished “litti chokha.” As he plans to visit India soon, he’s even preparing to bring back sarees for his German friends to celebrate Navratri.
The Future Beckons
Abhishek’s journey has just begun, and the road ahead is paved with promise. His goal is to make a mark in the healthcare industry and eventually establish his own healthcare products company.
In conclusion, Abhishek Srivastava’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of one’s dreams. His journey from Lucknow to Germany is a tale of embracing new cultures, pursuing innovative research, and savoring the flavors of life. Abhishek’s adventure is an inspiration for all those who dream of studying abroad and exploring the world beyond their comfort zones.
