16 January 2025
Anastasiia Krasina: “The moment that impressed me the most during the program was realizing how much my colleagues genuinely want to help and support me”
Anastasiia Krasina, Professional Integration HUB 2.0 Program Participant (Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy)
Intro
- Age: 23 years old
- City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation):
Donetsk (until 2014), Dnipro
Specialization: International Economic Relation, Corporate Finance, International Management,
Psychology
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
My professional background is quite diverse. While I lacked extensive practical experience earlier, I continuously sought to develop myself in various areas and enhance my expertise in topics that captured my interest. In Ukraine, I pursued three bachelor’s programs simultaneously, as I found it challenging to choose a single direction for my future career. My curiosity and eagerness to learn have always driven me to expand my knowledge.
Additionally, I had a 16-year career in professional swimming at the international level, which contributed significantly to my skill set. However, I always knew that sports would not remain my lifelong priority. That is why I balanced swimming with academics for as long as I could. Eventually, I realized it was the right time to focus on a new path that matched my academic and professional ambitions. And here I am today.
FORCED EMIGRATION
I moved to Austria in February 2023 for study purposes, marking a significant turning point in my life. It was during this time that I decided to end my swimming career and focus entirely on academic and career goals. One of the driving factors for this decision was the situation in Ukraine. I found the opportunity to go for the exchange semester to Vienna University of Economics and Business, and my family supported me. This experience motivated me to stay in Austria, immerse myself in the local culture, and work on mastering the language to build a solid foundation for my future career.
LIFE IN AUSTRIA
What impressed me the most about Vienna is its efficient public transport system. Everything is so well-connected that even when something is under construction or out of service, there are always alternative routes to get to your destination. The city is also exceptionally clean, which adds to its charm. On the other hand, I was surprised to find that some places don’t accept card payments, and certain processes, like receiving important documents, can take a surprisingly long time.
Finding a job in Austria has been challenging. I attended several networking events organized by the WU Career Center to build connections, which is crucial for employment in Austria. However, without strong German language skills, getting hired proved difficult. Additionally, companies often prefer local candidates over foreign ones, which, while understandable, adds another layer of complexity.
During my time in Austria, my family, my friends, and people whom I’ve met in Vienna, have been my greatest source of support. They encouraged me when I faced challenges and celebrated my achievements with me. Their strong belief in my abilities has helped me stay motivated and focused on my goals, even during difficult times.
If I could go back and speak to myself at the start of this journey, I would say: “Keep going, you are doing everything right. It is not an easy journey, but it will be an incredibly rewarding one. You will encounter many challenges and opportunities, and you’ll meet amazing people who will be happy to help and support you along the way. Trust yourself and your path, you know what to do.”
If I were to advise Ukrainians living abroad, I’d emphasize the importance of learning the local language – it’s a real asset that opens many doors. It’s also important to clearly define your goals and start working toward them while keeping a backup plan in mind. Expanding your network, staying flexible, and being open to opportunities will help navigate any challenges that arise.
Professional Integration HUB
I found out about the Professional Integration HUB program during a consultation with the International Office at WU. At that time, I faced some difficulties in finding a job and was looking for different opportunities.
Now, halfway through my internship at the Ministry of Labour and Economy, I am pleasantly surprised by how well everything has gone. One of the biggest benefits has been improving my German skills, as I communicate with my colleagues in German daily. What I appreciate the most, however, is the incredible support from my supervisor and colleagues. My supervisor not only assigned me to interesting projects but also offered guidance on navigating the Austrian job market after the program ends. She even provided me with a recommendation letter. Additionally, other colleagues have actively tried to help me by sharing potential job opportunities.
The moment that impressed me the most during the program was realizing how much my colleagues genuinely want to help and support me. Unfortunately, due to citizenship requirements, I won’t be able to continue working at the Ministry. Nevertheless, the encouragement and resources they’ve provided have given me the confidence to move forward.
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned through this experience is not to be afraid or ashamed to ask questions when I don’t understand something. Doing so not only helps avoid mistakes but also increases work efficiency and improves collaboration.
PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM
The internship has given me my first working experience in Vienna and boosted my confidence in navigating the Austrian professional environment. While I still have much to learn, I now feel more integrated. The HUB program has allowed me to connect with like-minded, motivated individuals, and I value these connections immensely. Moreover, the internship provided me with a deeper understanding of Austrian corporate culture, improved my German language skills, and allowed me to establish professional connections. Although full integration is an ongoing process, I now feel more confident and prepared to continue my career journey in Austria.
Photos: Valerie Loudon