To be a Foreigner

This blog has been written by one of the interns that did their internship in D9 Therapy and Wellness. Ilenia shares a little bit about her experience of what it's like being a "foreigner".

To be a foreigner

Hello, I'm Ilenia and I was born in Germany, but my parents are both from Italy. My parents were born in Italy, but at that time my grandparents immigrated to Germany as guest employees. It was very hard for my parents back then because they didn't understand anything in German.It was much easier for me because I was born in Germany and therefore grew up bilingual and went to school there etc.

But still, I don't have a German name and I don't look German and that can sometimes be a disadvantage.Even in elementary school, there can be traps where you are excluded because of your origins.For example, it can often happen that you mispronounce a word and then your classmates laugh at you. It can also happen that you are excluded from groups of friends. When you get older and apply for a job, it may well be that the locals are preferred. Such cases can make you feel like you are not part of society.

But of course, there are not only bad sides to being a foreigner. It is a big advantage to grow up bilingual. There are also people who admire you because of it. It can also help you in the world of work. As a foreigner you have an insight into two cultures. There are a lot of foreigners from different countries living in Germany, so as a foreigner you don't feel alone.

Of course, not everyone has prejudices against local people, there are a lot of people who find it useful to grow up with different cultures. You could also respond to people who have prejudices and show them what you're actually like. I see the matter positively, I am happy to have grown up bilingually and to have gotten to know many cultures in Germany.           

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ilenia’s story highlights both the challenges and advantages of being a foreigner. While she has faced exclusion and prejudice, her bilingualism and cultural insights have enriched her life and opened up unique opportunities. Her positive outlook and ability to bridge cultures are valuable strengths. For anyone feeling like an outsider, it’s important to connect with supportive communities, embrace your heritage, and maintain a positive attitude. By doing so, you can turn the experience of being a foreigner into a powerful asset.

If you relate to Ilenia's experience, remember that you are not alone. Embrace your unique background and use it to your advantage. Seek out communities where you feel understood and supported, and don't be afraid to educate others about your culture. Practice self-care and stay resilient in the face of challenges. Your diverse experiences and perspectives are strengths that can enrich your life and the lives of those around you. Stay positive, be proud of your heritage, and continue to build bridges between cultures.