What does the future look like for young Greeks growing up abroad? Our survey set out to capture the expectations, hopes, and anxieties of students at the Greek High School of Munich—a community shaped by life between two countries, Greece and Germany.
At this pivotal stage in their lives, more than 200 students—participating anonymously and with parental consent—shared how they envision their future: where they want to study, what drives them, what concerns them, and what dreams they carry into adulthood. Their responses offer a revealing snapshot of a generation searching for its path within a multicultural environment.
Studies in Greece, careers abroad
When it comes to higher education, most students say they would prefer to study in Greece. A significant portion, however, is also considering Germany or other countries. Their attraction to Greece is fueled not only by emotional ties to their homeland but also by the appealing image of student life there—often shaped by the experiences of peers already studying in Greek universities.
But the picture shifts when the question turns to long-term career prospects. Germany emerges as the top choice for professional life, with over 50% of respondents favoring it. Greece follows at 30%, while 20% envision their future in another country altogether.
This contrast highlights a deeper tension. While students maintain strong emotional bonds with Greece, they are acutely aware of practical factors—job opportunities, salaries, and social welfare systems (such as childcare, healthcare, and support for vulnerable groups)—that make life abroad more sustainable. The comparison underscores a clear conflict between their dreams and the realities they associate with Greece today.
Many students believe that unless meaningful and convincing changes occur, the phenomenon of “brain drain”—the emigration of skilled young people—will continue unabated in the coming years.
Love, identity, and belonging
When it comes to personal relationships, the responses reveal a nuanced balance between cultural identity and multicultural openness. A majority of students express a preference for a partner of Greek origin, though a substantial 41% say nationality does not matter.
This becomes even more striking alongside another finding: most students primarily identify as Greek, with only around 10% identifying as broadly European, and very few feeling German.
Students explain that their preference for a Greek partner stems from a desire for shared culture and mindset—factors they believe foster deeper understanding. Growing up in a multicultural society has taught them to respect diversity, but also to value preserving their identity within the families they hope to build.
Life in Germany: stability vs. nostalgia
Overall, 75% of students report being satisfied with their lives in Germany. This sense of satisfaction is largely attributed to stronger career prospects, better financial conditions for their families, greater organization, and a heightened sense of safety compared to Greece.
However, not الجميع share this view. A smaller group feels disconnected from German society, citing differences in mentality and a lack of belonging. For these students—especially those who have migrated more recently—nostalgia for Greece remains strong.
Greece through their eyes
Asked to identify Greece’s most pressing problem today, the majority point to economic challenges, followed closely by corruption. Comparing their experiences in Germany with their perceptions of Greece, students highlight economic instability, lack of meritocracy, and corruption as key factors shaping their future decisions.
Despite their emotional attachment, many struggle to imagine Greece as a place for permanent settlement or career advancement. They worry that existing issues could limit both their opportunities and their quality of life.
Civic engagement: divided but present
On political participation, opinions are split. Nearly half of the students say they intend to exercise their right to vote as members of the Greek diaspora—a right granted to Greeks living abroad. Yet a significant 40.4% express indifference toward political developments in Greece.
This divide suggests that while voting can serve as an important link to their homeland for some, others remain disengaged—possibly due to limited access to information or a sense of distance from Greek public life.
Education as the lifeline
When asked what the Greek state should prioritize for Greeks abroad, most students point to strengthening Greek-language education and addressing shortages in teaching staff at Greek schools overseas.
For these young people, education is not just academic—it is a vital connection to their heritage and identity.
In fact, 69.2% say they would send their own children to Greek schools abroad, reflecting strong trust in the value of Greek education and a desire to pass on language, culture, and traditions to the next generation.
A generation in between
The voices of these students—shaped by everyday life, education, identity, and future ambitions—offer valuable insight into how young Greeks abroad think and feel. At the center of their experience stands the Greek school they attend: a place they cherish and recognize as essential to preserving their cultural identity.
Their message is clear. Policymakers would do well to listen.
