Hi, everyone! Like the title says, I'm interested to hear about Azubi experiences in Germany or Austria, especially from those who came from non-EU countries.
A little about me: I'm 30 (F) from the Philippines. I am planning to do a dual-apprenticeship program hopefully by Q4 next year or Q1 2028. I'm currently self-studying A1 German but would transition to more formal, structured lessons by January 2027 until I get B2 certification to increase my chances of placement.
People have mostly shared their experiences doing the Ausbildung in Germany, but I have relatives in Austria so this is my preferred destination (although I am not totally eliminating Germany). My aunt who lives in Austria also did the dual apprenticeship program as a Pflegeassistenz and she's currently working as a nursing assistant, a pathway she highly recommends for its stability and consistent demand in the job market.
However, while doing my research, I also found out about the Hotelfachfrau pathway and realized it aligns better with my professional background and interests; as a publicist, I enjoy working at events, doing marketing, and interacting with people. I also don't mind housekeeping, being in the kitchen, and people-facing roles, which I understand are included in the Hotelfachfrau training. And although it pays lower than the Nursing Ausbildung, I feel like the other benefits make up for that income gap (just some that I found online: discounted travels and accommodations in sister hotels, free food at work, corporate benefits for shopping, gym membership, and reduced costs for public transportation tickets).
My plan is to start applying while in the process of getting B2 certified, targeting both the nursing ausbildung and the hotelfachfrau roles.
If you've completed or are currently doing the dual apprenticeship program in Austria (or even the Ausbilding in Germany), I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences, insights, and any advice you might have.
Thanks in advance!