Educated: A Memoir

Education ’ in particular higher education, going to a university ’ was never considered a choice, but something that I was meant to do. It was drilled into me starting from kindergarten that education is everything, and that excelling in it is the only way to move up the social ladder and live well. But growing up in India, you either had to excel academically or come from a well-off family to achieve this. When I learned that Europe offered free education at graduate and postgraduate levels, I was amazed at this possibility. The professors were invested, and resources were in abundance. Behold the advantage of socialism ’ providing equal opportunity to all who seek education. However, I realized, having lived here for two decades and having children of my own, that not everyone appreciated this system or took advantage of it.

© 2026 Sindhuja Cheema Enzinger. All Rights Reserved.

Freedom

Angela Merkel is a true inspiration. The first of many’first woman chancellor of Germany, first politician from former East Germany, and for me, the first of many who stayed true to what they believed in.

She has been criticized, ridiculed, and put down, yet she has always been a symbol of stability and consistency. Many might say she was rigid and inflexible, but it is admirable to be so firm about following through on a commitment. She viewed things pragmatically and often changed her stance on political issues. Her nature of evolving and adapting to the times only shows how strong she was. It is always easier to be on the outside and criticize the actions and decisions of political leaders. But when you ask yourself if you could have done any better in their shoes, under the pressure they are subjected to, you will think differently.

© 2026 Sindhuja Cheema Enzinger. All Rights Reserved.