Every step made counts

It's overwhelming when everything is new. You lose your sense of comfort, you need to do everything from scratch, you may feel lost or alone, one thing is for sure; It is not easy or pleasant, new beginnings are hard for everyone.

I enrolled in the Master programme Culture, Communication and Globalization in Aalborg University and got accepted. After that a whole new world opened.

A lot of fears and insecurities tormented me; Am I good enough? Will I be able to manage all of these changes? After over 10 years from my bachelor degree will I still be up for the task? Will my competencies and qualities be good enough?

The most important question would be how I got there? Well, by listening, by interacting, by actively participating and by just trying. You need to be out there knocking on doors.

 

"Tell me about yourself"

The Young Professionals in Denmark programme gave me the opportunity to expand my network, to see more clearly what is important in Denmark's guidelines and how to work with myself better.

Every company visit opened my eyes by observing not only the employers but also the participants. This is because I strongly believe that we have so many things to learn from every experience we go through. The Young Professionals in Denmark programme made me feel valued and gave me the support and tools to evolve.

Despite any obstacles, I went to every single event – not necessarily because all of them were relevant for the professional plans I had, or because I had some direct interest in the company – but to seize any opportunities.

So now my answer to the question “Tell me about yourself" is clearer and set in my mind.

Step out of the comfort zone and put in that extra effort, it will be worth it.

 

Open your horizons to what you can learn and who you can meet

Always be active, show who you are by being part of the community, of all of its aspects and getting involved.

During this past year, I had the privilege to volunteer in a few organisations.

In ELSK Aalborg International, I was part of the social media team where I met many other internationals and was able to participate in activities.

In UNYA Aalborg, I took part in many gatherings and activities about sustainability. This gave me the opportunity to go to meetings with the municipality and expand my views about the Aalborg community and enrich my network.

I also volunteered to be a reader in Nine Lessons and Carols, which is a beautiful, traditional event in Budolfi Cathedral where music, songs and readings related to Christmas interchange. At this event I participated alongside wonderful people; rectors from AAU and UCN, the leader of International House North Denmark, international and Danish students, organists and choir from Budolfi Cathedral, as well as the university chaplains.

I had many company visits with the Young Professionals in Denmark programme that brought me to places I would have never seen on my own and managed to hear so many interesting and good stories that enlarged my horizon. All unique and unforgettable experiences that lead me where I am today.

Every accomplishment has a piece of you in it

It's all about experiences, about how you use your time and how you build your network. Put that extra effort in, show interest, be proactive, get involved and participate. Ask for help, listen to your colleagues and teachers, create relationships and grow. We cannot do it alone. Be flexible and prioritize, learn how to manage your tasks in alignment with your abilities. Be always open to explore and learn especially when trying to set roots in Denmark.

Young Professionals in Denmark is a complete and complex experience, another stage in my professional life, now I embark on my next adventure as a student assistant for AAU Career and as an intern for AAU International office. Looking forward to what will come next.