After finishing 11 grades at her hometown school, Elnura enrolled in the International University of Kyrgyzstan, where she studied economics and obtained a degree in "Finance and Credit." She is currently in the process of validating her diploma.
Her first visit to Germany was through the "Au-pair" program. After that, for a year, she participated in a social program and enrolled in nursing courses, which she completed last year. At the moment, Elnura combines work and study in two fields — medicine and economics. "Germany offers many opportunities for those who are willing to work. A strong economy and strict laws allow for good earnings here, although taxes are about 40–45 percent of income," she shares.
Upon her first meeting with locals, Elnura noted their restraint and coldness. However, over time she realized that this is part of their cultural identity. In Germany, greeting and smiling at strangers on the street is perceived as a sign of politeness.
Unlike Kyrgyzstan, where communication with relatives and friends happens without planned meetings, in Germany everything is organized in advance. Weddings usually take place with 40–50 people, and hosts may only offer tea, coffee, or water without setting a lavish table. Weekends and vacations are planned a year in advance.
According to Elnura, adapting to a new life was not easy: the language, cultural peculiarities, and traditions caused cultural shock. Many newcomers face difficulties related to the language barrier and lack of social circles.
The family she worked with through the program turned out to be not the most successful — it was difficult to find common ground with the children. "Later, I started working as a nursing assistant through the social program. Although the salary was low, I learned a lot and got to know various life situations and people. The work of a nurse requires great responsibility: caring for patients includes bathing, administering medications, and monitoring their condition. It is one of the most in-demand professions," she explains.
During nursing training, there is an opportunity to practice in various departments: geriatrics, psychiatry, operating rooms, and pediatric wards, among others. The training even includes nuances such as the proper technique for washing a patient — which side to start from and how to care for them," Elnura adds.
Many Kyrgyzstani people live in Germany. "There are families who have moved here, as well as those who have found their significant others. Everyone maintains close ties, observes traditions, and celebrates holidays together," she shares.
In the future, Elnura plans to study economics and medicine in depth in Germany, aiming to gain experience and thoroughly research the economic system. Her goal is to adopt the best practices that improve people's lives in Germany and implement them in Kyrgyzstan. Although she is not married yet, she has plans for the future," she concludes.
