16 January 2025
Oleksandra Azizova: “I am deeply impressed by the openness of my team, their willingness to share their knowledge and experience, and their patience with my German”
Oleksandra Azizova, Professional Integration HUB 2.0 Program Participant (Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy)
Intro
- Age: 24 years old
- City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
- Specialization: Law
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: why law?
Attending the Museum of Corruption in Ukraine was a decisive experience that inspired me to study law in order to contribute to the fight against corruption in my home country.
FORCED EMIGRATION
The war found me at home with my parents. At the time, I was entirely focused on my studies and preparing for one of the most challenging international competitions for law students, scheduled for the 26th of February. I was completely unprepared for the outbreak of the war, which came as a total surprise.
The first country I relocated to was Andorra. A month later, I was fortunate to secure an internship at a Swedish law firm, prompting my move to Stockholm. Uncertain about the possibility of continuing my studies in Ukraine, I applied to universities that extended their application deadlines for Ukrainian students. Ultimately, I was admitted to the Central European University, which led me to Vienna.
LIFE IN AUSTRIA
It was quite challenging to settle in Austria. Initially, I didn’t know anyone and lacked clarity on handling administrative matters (e.g. document submissions and applications for employment permit). Therefore, I was trying my luck in different authorities. Many officials refused to speak English, and I didn’t know German, making the process even more difficult. During my first months, I also encountered many unfriendly individuals, which added to the struggle of adaptation.
Despite these challenges, I managed to find a job in my field and spent a year and a half at one of the biggest Austrian law firms.
In terms of integrating into a new country, I believe one common misconception is expecting the official system to function similarly to that of one’s home country. Another significant mistake is moving without basic knowledge of the local language, which can hinder communication and integration.
Being a foreigner in another country also means encountering stereotypes about your home country. For example, I have been told that Ukrainians don’t speak good English and that everything in Ukraine is entirely corrupt.
Professional Integration HUB
The Professional Integration HUB serves as a vital bridge between Ukrainians and Austria, offering a unique opportunity to connect Ukrainian professionals with local communities that are open and welcoming.
The Professional Integration HUB serves as a vital bridge between Ukrainians and Austria, offering a unique opportunity to connect Ukrainian professionals with local communities that are open and welcoming.
Halfway through my internship, I am deeply impressed by the openness of my team, their willingness to share their knowledge and experience, and their patience with my German. The reality has truly exceeded my expectations.
I had a chance to join a number of interesting meetings and activities. Especially remarkable for me was the attendance of the sessions at the Bundeskanzleramt, and possibility to conduct presentations for the Head of the Section and at the inter-ministries meeting.
My greatest achievements within the program include proving to myself that I can work effectively in a fully German-speaking environment. I also discovered a completely new professional direction, gaining a better understanding of the EU’s functioning, and acquiring valuable experience in policy-making.
In addition to the active professional development, I have learned more about the Austrian corporate culture. One surprising aspect is the habit of greeting each person individually and sometimes even greeting them twice in one encounter.
PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM
After participating in the project, my professional dream is to one day represent Ukrainian interests at a major international organization or forum. This is a goal that feels ambitious but continues to inspire me.
Over the course of the program, I have also made substantial progress in becoming part of the Austrian professional community, achieving more in these three months than in the previous two years.
Photos: Valerie Loudon