From Philly Suburbs to Deutschland Doctor: One Yank's Gamble on German Med School

A Yank in Deutschland: The Spark

Right so I’m reading this piece about Erika Roberts see? Grew up in Philadelphia did a stint in Munich as a kid. Didn’t know it then but that kraut trip was gonna shape her future. Just goes to show even the smallest things can change the course of a man's life. Or a woman’s in this case. "You listen when I'm talking to you!"

College Daze and a Growing Discontent

Fast forward a few years she's stateside biochemistry and all that. Pre med they call it. But she’s not happy. “I was a young adult who wanted to experience the world and all that came with it,” she says. Sounds familiar. Always looking for something more aren’t we? Like me with my bloody cigarettes. "Whiskey's good proofing water. Tells you who's real and who isn't."

Deutschland Calling: A Chance Encounter

Then it hits her: Germany. No need for a bloody Bachelor's to get into med school there. Six year program cheaper tuition. A proper gamble but sometimes that’s the only way to win. Cheaper tuition than back home...Peaky business is more costly than that... "Everyone's a whore Grace. We just sell different parts of ourselves."

Speaking the Lingo and Facing the Doubters

Starts brushing up on her German. Wants a challenge wants to meet new faces. Can't say I blame her. Her dad though he’s not having it. Wants her to stay put. Finish what she started. But she pulls a 3.9 GPA out of her arse and suddenly the old man changes his tune. Seems like everyone just wants to see the numbers now. You get the money you get the power. "Lies travel faster than the truth."

Life in Deutschland: Schnitzel Safety and Self Discovery

She gets on a plane ends up in a language school shacks up with a boyfriend’s family moves into a shared flat. The usual student life just with more bratwurst and less gunfire. Finds herself liking the slower pace the sense of safety. Says she’s even eating healthier. Imagine that. A Shelby eating healthy. "We are a family and we will always be. But sometimes families have to make sacrifices."

Looking Ahead: Europe or the US?

Now she’s been there eight years. Still got family back in the States but she sees herself staying in Europe for the long haul. Can’t say I blame her. Sometimes you just gotta find your own path no matter where it leads. Me? I'll stick to Birmingham for now but I’ll keep an eye on this Erika Roberts. She’s got a bit of Shelby in her I reckon. "May you be in heaven a full half hour before the devil knows you're dead."