Raquel, a dedicated nurse from Brazil, took a bold step in 2016. With the support of TalentOrange, she learned German and moved to Germany to take on a new professional challenge. Today, she works successfully in the intensive care unit of the Bürgerhospital in Frankfurt am Main and is now also a practical instructor.
In Brazil, Raquel completed a demanding training course to become a nurse at the Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO). The five-year course includes theoretical courses and extensive practical experience in hospitals. Students acquire in-depth knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology and nursing practice. Despite this intensive training, the working environment in Brazil is often difficult. Despite her qualifications, Raquel did not always feel treated with respect - neither by doctors nor by patients. Hospitals are often underfunded and overworked, which leads to poor working conditions. Nurses often work long shifts with few rest breaks, and the equipment does not always meet modern standards.
The difficult working conditions and low pay in Brazil are common reasons why many nurses look for better opportunities abroad. For Raquel, Germany not only offered better working conditions and higher salaries, but also the appreciation she had often missed in Brazil. In Germany, nurses take on a wide range of activities, including patient care and administrative tasks that are often carried out by nursing assistants in Brazil.
The first few months in Germany were not easy for Raquel. She had to get used to a new country and a foreign language. Starting work was a challenge, especially as the field of work in Germany is structured differently than in Brazil. But over time, Raquel got used to the new environment and appreciated the support of her colleagues, who helped her to learn German quickly and develop her skills.
Raquel has no regrets about moving to Germany. She has found her calling in nursing and loves helping other people. Her story is representative of many Brazilian nurses who find a new home in Germany and realize their professional dreams. There are currently many talented people from Brazil on our language courses who could start working in Germany at the beginning of 2025.