Professional Integration HUB

Alina Stozhok, Professional Integration HUB 3.0 Program Participant.

Intro

• Age: 28 years old
• City before moving to Austria: Kyiv, Ukraine
• Professional specialization: Scientific Researcher
• Hosting organization: OeAD – Austria’s Agency for Education and Internationalisation
• Self-rated integration: 10/10

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

My work experience in Ukraine (education, positions, key organizations) – PhD Researcher, Kyiv National Economic University; IT Project Manager, SoftServe 

HOBBIES AND PERSONAL INTERESTS

My hobbies and personal interests include reading and writing, which allow me to explore ideas and emotions, as well as drawing and hiking, through which I express creativity and reconnect with nature.

A book that is special to me is “Ask Miechka” by Yevheniia Kuznietsova. This psychological, introspective novel made me reflect on relationships, memory, and everyday life.

RELOCATION

The key factor that influenced my decision to leave Ukraine was safety.

I arrived directly in Vienna in November 2022 without a clear route or plan. It was a spontaneous decision made for safety reasons. Austria was the first country I reached after the full-scale invasion. 

As soon as I arrived, I began organizing my settlement. After a few months, I started searching for a job while working on my PhD research. 

PROFESSIONAL PATH IN AUSTRIA

In the first six months of living in Vienna, I began searching for a job.

My professional journey in Austria began with participation in HUB 3.0. Before joining the program, I did not have any work experience in Austria.

In Ukraine, I worked in IT project management. After moving to Austria and focusing intensively on scientific work, I decided to transition into research.

In my opinion, the professions that are currently most in demand in the Austrian labor market in general, as well as among Ukrainians in Austria, include IT specialists, social workers, care professionals, and workers in the gastronomy and service sectors.

EXPERIENCE IN THE PROGRAM

I found the information about the Professional Integration HUB program on the Facebook post in 2023. It was not my first application, I had you applied for the HUB 1.0.

I was thrilled when I found out I had been selected. Having gained theoretical knowledge and skills, I was very happy to have the chance to put them into practice in a professional environment.

I was very excited for my first day at OeAD. My start was thoroughly prepared and organized, and I felt very welcome.

The most valuable insight I gained during the program was a deeper understanding of how science works from the inside; as a curious young researcher, I became more immersed in the scientific environment, learned about available scholarships, and strengthened my personal research profile.

At the Working in Austria Event, supported by EURAXESS, I presented “Contemporary Approaches to Job Searching”, sharing practical professional advice with researchers working in Austria. The most valuable achievement was taking part in the conference “Universities and the World of Work | Global Perspectives,” where I had the opportunity to contribute to supporting the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative.

With my experience in IT project management, I was able to propose solutions to enhance internal system efficiency. Additionally, drawing on my background in talent acquisition, I gave a presentation at the EURAXESS event, providing practical guidance on finding and applying for jobs.

During the team-building event in Wachau and at the other events I felt like a part of my Austrian team at the hosting organization.

The moments that stand out most in my memory from the program include a study visit to Linz within the HUB, which was a very warm and welcoming gathering, as well as a trip to Wachau organized by the OeAD, memorable for its beautiful scenery and friendly team atmosphere.

The Professional Integration HUB became a starting point for me: it helped me believe in myself again, brought back the feeling of living a full life, and gave me the ability to plan for tomorrow. Doing my internship at OeAD is not only about gaining experience or exchanging ideas. It is a natural continuation of what I had already built in Ukraine. It is my growth and my path forward.

INTEGRATION IN AUSTRIA

I would rate my level of integration in Austria as 10 out of 10. 

A person can truly say they are integrated when they are socially and professionally involved, although the greatest engagement is demonstrated through their interactions with institutions.

To advance my integration, I have engaged in networking, participated in projects, submitted job applications, and attended events, and I believe the most valuable aspect of these activities has been enhancing my social capital.

My integration experience changed after the program as I enhanced my social capital, gained new experiences, and exchanged insights; however, the most valuable aspect was the opportunity to further develop the skills and knowledge I had already acquired in Ukraine.

During my internship, I observed several initiatives supporting Ukrainian students and scholars. Overall, I believe that most Austrians are willing to help and support people displaced from Ukraine.

The stereotype I still encounter is the tendency to confuse Ukrainians with russians or to assume that our cultures, languages, and identities are the same. Despite the full-scale invasion and the clear differences between the two countries, some people still hold outdated perceptions. 

PERSPECTIVE

I plan to continue my research, further develop the networks I have gained, and stay involved in HUB activities. And of course, I will keep applying for job opportunities.

On a scale from 1 to 10, I would rate the likelihood of returning to Ukraine in the future as 5, as I have no definite opinion on this.

I would consider returning provided that safety is guaranteed and that there are adequate opportunities to support the continued development of my human capital.

Ensuring safety, offering jobs with decent salaries, and providing support with housing – these are the steps the Ukrainian government should take to encourage people to return to Ukraine.

Speaking of my dream role, I cannot yet say which professional direction it will be, but I would like to have an opportunity that allows me to develop my skills, gain new knowledge, work in a multicultural environment, and feel that I am contributing to something meaningful.

REFLECTIONS

The interaction with Austrian institutions has been the most challenging moment in your integration journey in Austria

As a Ukrainian professional in Austria, I feel that what is often missing is Ukrainian mobility – the ability to adapt quickly and face challenges with determination, speed, and a willingness to go the extra mile.

To those who are just beginning their professional path in Austria I would strongly recommend to be prepared to face various challenges, but maintain your faith and determination. And learn German.

The Professional Integration HUB is my growth and my path forward.

 

Photos: Valerie Loudon, Ganna Kasych

• Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB 3.0 Program.