A Journey of Growth: My Experience as an International Student and Nanny in Germany 🇩🇪 🌸

Hello deer, this is Seri 🌸

Note : I will add some advices at the end.

My journey to Germany began with a simple fascination for the language, sparked during a visit to Switzerland.

What started as a curiosity grew into an opportunity to study social sciences at Heidelberg University while working as a live-in nanny.

Along the way, I faced unexpected challenges, including personal loss, but also discovered new passions and made lifelong connections.

This is the story of my experience balancing studies, work, and personal growth in a foreign country.

The beginning.

When I visited Germany a few years ago while I was in Switzerland, I instantly fell in love with the language and the atmosphere for no particular reason. It felt like a place I could appreciate to visit more one day, so when I returned to Japan, I started learning German on my own with some apps. I was determined to get better at it, knowing that it could open up new opportunities for me.

I’m originally from Kobe, but I started my university studies in Nara then Kyoto, majoring in social sciences.

During my time there, I applied for an exchange program to study in Germany, and Kyoto University was incredibly helpful in the process. They assisted with everything: the exchange application to Heidelberg University, the selection process, the paperwork, and even provided information on housing and scholarships.

The idea of being Au-Pair.

Before I left, I talked with some people already studying in Europe who had been Au-Pairs in Germany after their studies. Their stories made me think about becoming an Au-Pair myself during my studies. I did some research and found out that it could be a great way to experience life in Germany, but the visa situation made it complicated. Fortunately, a family was willing to take me as a nanny under a mini job contract, which solved the problem.

Being a nanny and international student offers several benefits:

1. Cultural Immersion: Living with a host family helps you deeply experience the local culture and language.

2. Work Experience: You gain valuable skills in childcare, responsibility, and communication.

3. Financial Support: It provides a way to support yourself while studying.

4. Language Practice: Daily interactions improve your language skills.

5. Personal Growth: Balancing work and studies helps build patience, independence, and resilience.

6. Relationships: You form meaningful connections with your host family and others.

7. Flexibility: Part-time work allows time to explore and travel during breaks.

Overall, it enriches both your academic and personal life.

The preparation for the move was overwhelming. It was especially hard because my mom became seriously ill right before I was supposed to leave. She encouraged me to still go, telling me it would be good for my future, even though I had no idea how long she would be with us, I had so much hope. Unfortunately, she passed away just a few weeks after I arrived in Germany.

As a Japanese citizen, I didn’t need a visa to enter Germany for a short stay, so I didn’t have to worry about the paperwork until my exchange program began. I could stay visa-free for the 90 days, and after that, I needed to apply for a Student Residence Permit.

Before leaving for Germany, I had a farewell party with my best friends, where we shared laughs and memories. I also said my goodbyes to my family, with my dad and big brother taking me to the airport. It was an emotional mix of excitement for the adventure ahead and sadness at leaving home, especially since I thought I’d be far from my mom during her recovery.

The journey begin.

Once I arrived in Germany, I had to register my address and apply for my residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde in Heidelberg. The bureaucracy was a lot to handle, but I knew I had to push through. At first, I lived in a shared house with about ten other people. There were separate bathrooms for girls and boys, but it still wasn’t ideal. I found myself isolating a bit because it was overwhelming having so many people around.

Soon enough, I moved in with the family I would be working for.

They had a 6-month-old baby when I arrived.

I will name him Bärli.

While I wasn’t a qualified nanny, I had experience working with kids back in Japan, particularly with children aged 0-3. The family was understanding and accepted me, even though I wasn’t formally trained. Bärli quickly accepted me, but there were some challenges, especially when it came to bedtime. It took a little time, but slowly we bonded, and I watched him grow, which was such a rewarding experience.

I had my own "guest floor," complete with a private bathroom, room, and access to another kitchen. It’s a great setup, and having my own space really helps me balance my studies and work as a nanny.

The family was kind and generous, but there were moments of tension. The mom was a perfectionist, and it could be very difficult to meet her high expectations.

Balancing studies and work, as a student.

I was studying Transcultural Studies, which was both fascinating and challenging. Being in Germany, far from home, was hard in the beginning. I felt very alone, but I pushed through, finding comfort in my studies and the new experiences I was gaining.

A day in my life.

7:00 AM – Wake Up and Morning Routine.

I wake up at 7 AM, giving myself just enough time to prepare for the day ahead. After a quick shower, I have a light breakfast usually pancakes or savory toasts (french toast) or some fruit. It’s a quiet moment to gather my thoughts and get mentally ready for class.

7:40 AM – Head to University.

By 7:40, I leave the house and catch the bus to the University of Heidelberg. The ride takes about 20 minutes, and I usually use that time to listen to music, review my notes, or simply look out the window and enjoy the view of the city waking up. It’s a peaceful moment before diving into a busy day of classes.

8:00 AM – Morning Classes.

My classes usually begin at 8:00 AM. As a Transcultural Studies student, we explore topics like cultural identity, migration, postcolonial theory, and how societies interpret each other through history, media, and literature. Sometimes we discuss case studies from different regions, including East Asia and Europe, which I find especially interesting as a Japanese student living in Germany. The discussions are often deep and challenging, but they help me see the world in new and complex ways.

12:00 PM – Lunch with the Family.

At noon, I head back to the family’s home for lunch. The mom is a wonderful cook, and we all sit together to enjoy a delicious meal. It’s a nice time to bond and talk about the day so far, giving me a moment to relax before continuing with my nanny duties.

1:30 PM – Nanny Time with Bärli.

After lunch, I’m in charge of little Bärli for about three and a half hours. He’s such a joy to be around, and we spend the afternoon playing and when it's sunny outside, we go for a walk.

It’s amazing to see how much he’s growing, and I love being part of his journey. Sometimes he can be a bit fussy but we always manage to settle into a rhythm.

5:00 PM – Evening with the Family.

Once Bärli is done with his afternoon routine, I might help around the house or simply enjoy some time to myself. The family used to be as talkative as me, so it’s always nice to share stories about my day or just relax together in the evening.

5:30/6:00 PM – Study or Personal Time.

After a long afternoon, I take some time to focus on my studies. Whether it's reviewing my lecture notes or working on assignments, I make sure I stay on top of my academic responsibilities. If I’m feeling tired, I might take a break, listen to some music, or chat with my friends or family back home.

7:00 PM – Dinner Time

In the evening, after a full day, I usually make myself a light dinner. Sometimes I prepare simple Japanese meals like miso soup, tamagoyaki, or onigiri with pickled plum or salmon. Other nights, I like to try local German dishes, one of my favorites is käsespätzle. Living abroad made me more curious about cooking, and now I often mix Japanese and European flavors in my meals. It's my quiet moment of the day, and it always brings a bit of home to my small kitchen.

10:00 PM – Unwind Before Bed.

By 10 PM, I try to wind down and relax. I may stretch, read, or check in with people I care about. It’s important for me to have a quiet moment to reflect on my day and prepare for the next. After that, I get ready for bed, feeling grateful for everything I’m learning and the experiences I’m having.

Note : Some days are a bit different. On days when I finish earlier, I might be done by 3 PM, so the schedule adjusts. The family is flexible, and I really appreciate their understanding.

Balancing university with nanny duties is a lot of work, but I’m learning so much along the way. Every day is different, but I’m grateful for the experiences and the opportunity to grow both personally and academically here in Germany.

How about free time?

One of the brightest parts of my time here was meeting another student from Korea who became one of my closest friends here, in Germany. Together, we explored Germany, trying new things, including aerial dance, which has become one of my favorite activities. We both loved visiting especially Baveria.

During semester breaks, my family came to visit, which brought me some comfort. I also took the chance to travel, visiting my cousin in Switzerland living with his family and even going to Malta with my best friend.

The flexibility of my residence permit allowed me to work more hours during the breaks, which meant I could make some extra money and experience more of Europe.

Another day in my life.

7:30 AM – A Gentle Start.

During university vacations, my schedule shifts a bit. Since I take care of Bärli full time from 9 AM to 4 PM, I wake up around 7:30 to prepare myself for the day. I enjoy a calm breakfast usually pancakes with homemade orange juice, or sometimes Tamago Gohan, rice mixed with a raw egg if I miss home a little more that day.

9:00 AM – A Day with Bärli Begins.

At 9, I start my nanny duties. Bärli is usually full of energy in the morning, so we play together, read picture books, and take short walks outside if the weather is nice. He loves animal sounds, especially pretending to be a little bear, his nickname is Bärli, after all.

12:00 PM – Lunch Time.

At noon, we all eat lunch together. The mama cooks for us, often hearty meals with fresh vegetables. I enjoy discovering new German dishes this way, some days it’s lentil stew, other times potato dumplings or a seasonal salad.

1:00 PM – Quiet Moments.

After a bit of rest, I take Bärli again around 1:00 PM for the afternoon stretch. Sometimes we go to the park or have sensory play indoors. He naps occasionally, and I use that time to tidy up or just enjoy the stillness.

4:00 PM – Free Time and Dinner.

When I finish work, I have some free time to rest, go for a walk, or call my family. In the evening, I cook dinner often something light like udon noodles with veggies, or a stir-fry with tofu. I also like experimenting with local ingredients, so I’ve tried curry with German potatoes.

Some days, the schedule changes, I might finish at 3 PM instead of 4, depending on the family’s plans. I also usually work 4 days a week.

We always adapt together.

My time at the University.

My time studying Transcultural Studies at Heidelberg University has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life.

The program opened my eyes to how cultures interact, evolve, and influence each other across time and space. We explored topics like migration, postcolonial theory, identity, memory, and how histories are shaped through different perspectives.

One of the most meaningful parts for me was gender studies. I learned how gender roles are constructed differently across cultures, and how systems of power including patriarchy and colonialism shape those roles. It made me reflect deeply on my own experiences as a woman from Japan, and gave me new tools to question inequality with a more global, critical perspective.

These studies didn’t just expand my knowledge, they changed how I see the world and my place in it.

Looking back, I don’t regret my decision, even though it wasn’t always easy.

There were hard moments, especially after losing my mom, but I’ve learned so much about the world and about myself.

I got to travel, meet new people, start a new sport, and experience something truly unique.

Working with the baby gave me a new perspective on life, and I’ve grown in ways I never expected.

This journey has been life-changing, and I’m so grateful for every part of it.

My advices :

Advice for Future Nannies and International Students.

(from someone who’s been there).

If you're considering becoming a nanny (or Au-Pair) while studying abroad, it's a path full of growth, tenderness, and hard work.

Here are a few things I wish someone had told me:

What I’d recommend:

- Start searching early.

Finding a host family when you’re a student can be harder, some families prefer professional nannies or expect full availability. Be upfront about your university schedule and look for families who understand and respect that.

- Be honest and open.

You don’t need to be a professional nanny just clear about your experiences, your warmth, and your willingness to learn. Some families will value your presence and background more than your diploma.

- Ask the right questions.

During interviews, ask about their expectations, schedule, parenting style, and whether they’ve had students or Au-Pairs before.

Compatibility matters more than perfection.

- Prepare paperwork in advance.

If you're working under a mini-job or similar arrangement, understand the legal conditions in the country. Not all families are informed, sometimes you have to guide them.

Challenges you might face:

- Being rejected or ignored.

Many families want full-time availability or experience. It can feel disheartening, but it’s not about your worth, it’s just about fit. Be patient and keep searching.

- Visa or contract limitations. Depending on the country, being a student might restrict what jobs you can legally do. Double-check with your university and immigration office.

- Adapting to a new routine. Balancing study hours and childcare needs flexibility. Some days will feel heavy but you’ll find your rhythm.

- Loneliness. Especially at the start, it can feel like you’re carrying everything alone. Try to connect with other international students or Au-Pairs nearby.

Even with these challenges, this kind of experience can become one of the most meaningful chapters of your life.

You’ll grow, laugh, cry, and collect so many little memories from sleepy baby cuddles to passing exams you thought you couldn’t.

So if your heart is softly calling you in this direction, listen :

It’s a brave and beautiful path.

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