A Students Guide to Thriving in Aachen | Kunal Gehlot
Deciding where to start a further education is one thing. But choosing a city that suits you is just as important. Our student Kunal from India explains in a short blog post about his journey to Aachen.
Chai, Cheese, and Change: An Indian Student's Quirky Guide to Thriving in Aachen
My Journey to Aachen
The moment I received the offer letter from RWTH Business School, I knew an exciting adventure awaited. The preparations were a blend of meticulous planning and intuitive decisions. I navigated the complexities of setting up a Blocked Account, securing a Visa, and choosing the right health insurance. Searching for accommodation led me to WG-Gesucht, where I found a perfect WG (shared apartment) with no fixed contract end date. Despite common advice, I paid my rent and deposit in advance, but only after thorough verification to ensure legitimacy.
Upon arrival in Aachen, my WG partner gave me a city tour, which even included a spontaneous trip to Ikea in the Netherlands, marking my second day in Aachen with an international flavor. I had chosen to carry a considerable amount of cash, understanding Germany's preference for cash transactions, and it proved to be a practical decision in many situations.
Navigating Aachen: Essential Apps and Insider Tips
My initial days in Aachen were an exploration. I made extensive use of apps like Mova and Naveo for navigating public transport and DB Navigator for train journeys. Language barriers were significantly reduced thanks to apps like DeepL and Google Translate.
Arriving a month before classes began, I took the time to explore, make friends, and understand the local way of life. This period also allowed me to tackle German bureaucratic processes with ease, such as city registration and setting up banking and insurance facilities.
A Quirky Guide to Aachen Living
Coming to Germany with a B2 level of German proficiency was a game-changer. It not only helped in everyday interactions but also in understanding the nuances of German culture. The challenge of Aachen's winter, with its limited sunlight and gloomy weather, was something I hadn’t anticipated. I quickly learned the importance of Vitamin D supplements and artificial lighting.
I adapted to the city's waste management system and the German Pfand system. Another interesting discovery was that in Germany, 'water' often refers to sparkling water, and still water has to be specifically requested.
The local bus system, with its stop-button etiquette, and the convenience of buying tickets directly from the driver, were just some of the small but essential aspects of daily life. Supermarkets like Netto, REWE, and ALDI, each with their unique offerings and quality levels, became my regular shopping spots.
Student Life and Beyond
At RWTH Aachen University, I dove into the vibrant student community. Joining clubs and connecting with fellow students on platforms like WhatsApp, Reddit, and Discord enriched my student life. The university's Survival Guide was an invaluable resource, offering insights into student life and Aachen's hidden gems.
Learning to operate German windows, understanding local customs like Ruhezeit and Ruhetag, and securing a Hausarzt (general practitioner) and Zahnarzt (dentist) were part of my adaptation process.
Packing Essentials for Aachen
My preparation for Aachen included packing essentials like waterproof shoes and a sturdy umbrella to withstand the frequent rains and strong winds. A waterproof winter coat was a must to endure the harsh winters. I also packed an extensive wardrobe, aware of the higher clothing costs in Germany.
Conclusion: Embracing Aachen
Moving to Aachen has been a journey filled with learning, adapting, and enjoying every moment. My proficiency in German, combined with an openness to new experiences, made this transition smoother and more enjoyable. From the quirks of daily life to the warmth of new friendships, my experience in Aachen has been nothing short of enriching. For anyone about to embark on this journey, I encourage you to embrace the surprises, immerse yourself in the culture, and enjoy every moment of your Aachen adventure.
BONUS: IMPORTANT MOBILE APPS FOR AACHEN LIFE
- Mova and Naveo for public transport
- AllTrails for outdoor activities
- DeepL and GoogleTranslate for language assistance
- Kleinanzeigen for local classifieds
- NextDBNavigator for train and bus info
- NINA for emergency information
- PAYBACK for loyalty rewards
- Postident for digital identification
- RWTHApp for university life
- TIER/Voi for micro-mobility
- Lieferando/Uber Eats for food delivery
- WG-Gesucht for apartment hunting
- Revolut/N26 for digital banking
- ApothekenApp for medical emergencies
Don’t forget to explore the official RWTH Aachen University Survival Guide for comprehensive tips and resources!
Kunal Gehlot
Student of the Full-Time MBA Digitalization & Industrial Change (Class of 2023)