CROSSROADS CHRONICLES

Notes on building a life in the Netherlands

Tag: blog

  • Should You Pursue a New Degree or Focus on Job Hunting (When Starting Fresh Abroad)?

    It can be tough when you’re faced with a big decision like whether to go back to school for a new degree or dive into the job market, especially in a new country where you’re still adjusting. The language barrier and the unfamiliar job market can make the choice feel even more complicated. To help navigate this decision, here’s a simple framework for a guidance that I would like to share with you:

    Assess the Current Job Market

    • Language barrier: If you’re not fluent in the local language yet, think about how long it might take to reach a level where you can compete in the job market. In some countries, being fluent in the local language is a must for most jobs. If that’s the case, focusing on learning the language first might be a smart move.
    • Job opportunity: Are there positions available in your field or others that don’t require full language fluency? For instance, international companies or roles where English is commonly spoken might be a good option while you continue to improve your language skills.
    • Educational requirements: Does your new country’s job market require specific degrees or advanced qualifications you don’t have? If certain fields demand a degree to even get started, this could influence your decision.

    Evaluate the Value of a New Degree

    • Passion vs. practicality: If you’re passionate about studying a particular subject, ask yourself if this degree will help you in the local job market. Will it make you more employable? Also, consider how this degree fits with your life satisfaction and long-term goals.
    • Time and cost: A new degree takes time and money. Think about the financial investment and the years of study required. Can you commit to this? Make sure the degree will be worth it, both in terms of career benefits and personal growth.
    • Alternative routes: Instead of pursuing another degree, could you gain the skills you need through certifications, online courses, or internships? These options might be faster and less expensive, and still help you advance in your career.

    Long Term Career Goals

    • Career advancement: If you already have a clear career path, would a second degree help you move forward? Sometimes experience, training, or certifications can be just as valuable, if not more, than a degree.
    • Flexibility in career path: If you’re still figuring out your long-term career, it might be better to gain some work experience first. Jobs or internships can give you a better sense of what you want to do before committing to more education.

    Personal Considerations

    • Emotional readiness: Moving to a new country is a big adjustment. Are you excited by the idea of more studies, or do you feel worn out from past academic experiences? If you’re feeling tired, it might be worth taking a break and exploring other professional opportunities first.
    • Work-life balance: Can you manage full-time study while balancing your daily life? Would you need to work alongside your degree? Make sure you can handle the workload before committing to a full-time academic program.

    Language Skill

    • Language Acquisition: Focusing on improving your language skills could open up many job opportunities faster. Some countries offer free or affordable language courses, and being able to speak the local language will help you integrate into the culture and build stronger connections in the community.

    Conclusion

    If pursuing a new degree aligns with your passions and career goals, it could be a great investment in your future. However, weigh the time, cost, and potential benefits carefully. If you’re still unsure about your career path, consider working first, even if it’s not your dream job, to gain local experience and improve your language skills. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal situation, career ambitions and how ready you are for another round of studies. It might also help to seek advice from local professionals or academic advisors who can offer insights into the value of a degree in your new country.

  • Happy Birthday from London

    Spending my birthday in London felt like connecting with an old friend – a place that both surprises and comforts me, where I sense history in every corner yet feel inspired to keep exploring. The moment I landed (yes, after a typical EasyJet delay), I was greeted by London’s signature rain, a fitting start for a city that always surprises.

    London’s energy is unique: old meets new, ancient traditions mesh with the ultra-modern, and the city’s heartbeat feels like a steady rhythm of progress and preservation. As I walked through landmarks like Westminster Abbey and across the Tower Bridge, I felt the weight of time and the pulse of a dynamic, evolving metropolis.

    One of the most freeing parts of my London birthday trip was exploring on foot. The city’s seamless public transport makes hopping between boroughs easy, but there’s something about London that calls you to wander. Walking beside the Thames, I took in views of Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and the London Eye – each a reminder of the city’s grandiosity and history.

    Camden Market was my favorite. Its vibrant stalls, live music, and eclectic mix of people make it feel like a world within a world. This is the heart of London’s spirit – a bit gritty, full of soul, and unapologetically alive.

    And the food! For a city often underestimated for its culinary offerings, London’s food scene surprised me with its diversity and flavor. From the bold, comforting flavors of nasi campur (mixed rice) at Dapur to the comforting spices in a bowl of kari laksa at Roti King, each meal was a small, delicious journey across cultures.

    So why London? Choosing London for my birthday was more than just a trip. It was a celebration of my own journey and aspirations. London, in all its contrasts, is a city constantly reinventing itself yet firmly grounded in its roots. It’s a reminder that it’s possible to honor where you’ve come from while embracing growth – a balance I strive for my own journey!

  • Finding Balance, Coping with Job Uncertainty and Thriving in Transition

    Moving to a new country is like stepping into a whole new world, and it’s no surprise that it feels tough, especially with language barriers and finding work in unfamiliar places. When you’ve had a high-paying, fulfilling job back home, taking on random jobs in a new place can feel like a hit to your pride. You’re not alone in feeling this way; many people experience that same dip in confidence during a big move.

    But here’s the thing: every experience has its value, and sometimes the small steps forward – taking temporary roles, for example – are what actually get you to where you want to be in the long run. It can be helpful to see each job, no matter how “random,” as a stepping stone. These roles can help you learn the local language, build connections, and gradually adjust to the new environment.

    Winter is indeed on the way, and I completely get that it’s adding to your stress. If being away from home is wearing you down, going back for the winter could be a great idea. It might give you time to rest, refocus, and come back with a fresh mindset for the spring. The other option is exploring ways to connect with people locally, even in small ways like joining language classes or expat groups. Often, these are lifelines during winter months.

    If possible, you might also want to explore remote work options that allow you to leverage your skills and background without the need to be proficient in the local language. Freelancing or remote roles could give you the flexibility to keep working in your field, which might boost your confidence and make the transition easier.

    Ultimately, the most important thing is to give yourself permission to feel frustrated and overwhelmed but also the space to recharge. You don’t have to do everything perfectly right now. Progress doesn’t always mean being in the perfect job or environment – it means taking care of yourself and adapting step by step. The winter, the slow job market, and the language barriers are just temporary. They won’t define you in the long run. You’re in the midst of a transition that will lead you to something better. Just keep moving forward, even if it’s at a slower pace.