No matter what country you travel to, the essence is the same. It’s like surfing: at first, it’s hard to stay on the board. But once you catch the wave, remember that feeling—then you’ll be able to do it again. Cultures are different, but we are all human beings. People with passion attract others. You only live once – take risks with big waves and enjoy life to the fullest!
What made you decide to come to Germany, and specifically to Aachen?
Serina from Japan. Germany is a very strong economy and has a high gross domestic product (GDP), especially in the German-speaking region. I wanted to expand my business opportunities and lifestyle in this location.
How were the first few months? What was the biggest challenge?
At first, I could hardly speak German. I could only say “hello.” I remember well how difficult it was to shop at the supermarket. Everyday life was a challenge, and I was often unsure, but at the same time I was excited about the future that awaited me once I had mastered the language. Learning German was harder than I expected, and I sometimes cried and had to grit my teeth to get through it.
How did you learn German? Were there any particularly helpful courses or programs?
I attended a language school and learned from A1 to C1 there. The A1 to B1 classes were held in person, while I took the B2 and C1 courses online due to the coronavirus pandemic. It was a very valuable experience to learn together with my classmates.
In the beginner courses (A1–B1), I placed particular emphasis on the basics: I listened to the CDs from the textbook over and over again – so often that I almost knew them by heart. Later, I had more and more opportunities to speak German with friends, and I used a wide variety of media: German films, YouTube videos, news, and podcasts—I listened to as much German as possible.
I am convinced that listening comprehension is the most important part of language learning – it is similar to the natural learning process of one's native language. Through continuous learning, I was not only able to improve my language skills, but also make many new contacts.
What were the biggest difficulties you faced in everyday life as a migrant? How did you overcome them?
It took me some time to truly accept the cultural differences. Sometimes I felt overwhelmed even by very simple things and was on the verge of panic.
What helped me a lot was that I had friends in Aachen. In addition, Düsseldorf is home to one of the largest Japanese communities in Europe, which also provided me with a great deal of support.
When you don't understand the language, you quickly feel lonely. I am a rather impulsive person and set out to find a job just three days after my arrival. However, I was dismissed a week later – that's when I realized that saying “hello” alone is not enough.
When the loneliness became too much, I temporarily returned to Japan to recharge my batteries with family and friends. But I had a strong desire to really achieve something here – and I'm glad I did.
How did you start your career?
My situation was a little unusual, as my grandfather and father were self-employed in Japan. That's why I had no difficulty developing my own business ideas or building networks. For me, it is particularly important to combine my own strengths with those of others in order to create new value together. This has enabled me to make many valuable contacts. I hope to continue expanding such opportunities in the future and to realize new projects with committed people.
What steps were important in getting back into your field of work? (e.g., recognition of qualifications, internships, networks, job application support)
I am very interested in languages and have successfully completed the C1 course. This has made communicating with other people much easier. I contribute my own ideas and work with various partners—I am now also receiving concrete job offers.
I like to seek advice from experienced people and put it into practice right away. Before I start a new project, I place great importance on a thorough preliminary discussion so that both sides can start with a good feeling.
Since I often stand in front of an audience, I pay special attention to my physical and mental health: I practice yoga and meditation, regularly train in Nihon Buyō (Japanese dance), avoid alcohol and nicotine, eat consciously, maintain a regular sleep pattern – and I write in my diary every day to stay reflective and balanced.
How does your creative work (e.g., dance or cultural projects) influence your life here?
As a non-German, I face certain disadvantages despite having studied the language. However, my friends and family are always very supportive. Through my activities as a Nihon Buyō dancer, singer, and in the field of recruitment, I strive to make Japan more accessible in Germany and around the world. I am happy when my work helps to deepen the friendship between Japan and Germany. I love creating something together and would like to continue expanding such projects here.
How do you combine your Japanese cultural identity with life in Germany?
This overlaps somewhat with the previous question, but I want to convey the true beauty of Japan. Through my activities and those of my circle, I hope that more people will show interest in Japan and that a friendly relationship with Germany, Europe, and the world will develop. For me, it's not just about superficial exchange, but about deep connection through culture and heart—that is my greatest joy.
What advice would you give to migrants starting a new life in Germany?
No matter which country you go to, the essentials are the same. It's like surfing: at first, it's difficult to stand on the board. But once you've caught the wave, you should hold on to that memory—then you'll succeed again. Cultures are different, but we are all human beings. People with passion attract others. You only live once—take on big waves and enjoy life to the fullest!
What advice would you give to migrants starting a new life in Germany?
No matter which country you go to, the essence remains the same. It's like surfing: at first it's hard to stay on the board. But once you catch a wave, you need to remember that feeling—then you'll be able to do it again. Cultures are different, but we are all human beings. People who are passionate attract others. You only get one life – take risks, catch the big waves, and enjoy it to the fullest!
What are your dreams or plans for the future in Aachen or elsewhere?
Aachen has become my second home. This city supported me when I was struggling and helped me get back on my feet again and again to find myself. With this support, I want to expand my activities not only in Germany, but throughout Europe and even around the world.
Every day, I follow my path and ask myself through yoga and meditation: “What do I really want to do?” If my work gives someone hope or courage, that will be the greatest joy for me.
