The Two Most Pivotal Decisions I Made When Starting My Master's in Germany

When I received the offer to start a Master's Program in International Humanitarian Action in Germany, I was faced with a pivotal decision. Of course, whenever we set goals in life, life tests us. And I was no exception. These were the two most difficult choices I've ever had to make in life—and both directly impacted my future and my aspirations.

Hard Choice #1: Leaving My Job and Comfort Zone

Choosing to leave my job in Istanbul was not easy. I was well-established and comfortable, with a stable career path that promised continued growth and success. The thought of leaving everything familiar behind to pursue further education abroad was daunting. I felt a mix of excitement and fear, grappling with the potential risks and the unknowns of starting over in a new country. Ultimately, I decided to embrace the challenge. I believed that pushing my limits and stepping out of my comfort zone was essential for personal and professional growth.

Hard Choice #2: Closing Our Home and Moving Abroad

The decision to move wasn’t just about me; it involved my wife and two daughters as well. Closing our home and relocating to Germany meant starting anew in every sense—new environment, new language, and new culture. This decision carried a significant emotional weight, filled with concerns about their adjustment and well-being. However, we decided together that this would be a valuable opportunity for all of us, one that could open new doors and provide new experiences beyond the horizon of our current lives.

But here's the thing:

Being forced to make these choices ultimately got me to where I am today—which is more enlightened, resilient, and globally aware. The journey has not only been about academic learning but also about discovering more about life and myself. Through embracing the unknown and facing these challenges head-on, I have gained invaluable experiences and insights that have profoundly shaped my perspective and future direction.

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