Edisona Krasta

“With my husband's constant support and my strong desire to seize every opportunity, I embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and growth. It was during this pivotal moment that I stumbled upon yet another gem in Lund – the Social Hub. Eager to immerse myself in their events, I eagerly soaked up every bit of information and enjoyment they had to offer. Their gatherings became more than just occasions to attend; they became moments of personal transformation and connection, fuelling my spirit and broadening my horizons. ”

During my Biotechnology studies, I embarked on a meaningful journey, volunteering at the Centre of Career Alumni, part of the University. There, in the busy academic setting, I found myself not only assisting students but also extending my care to the less fortunate and the wise elders of our community. This experience filled me with a sense of fulfilment and purpose, fuelling my desire to make a positive impact wherever I went. It was like a big family, and I loved being part of it.

After I finished my studies, I landed a job in Albania’s Public Sector. It wasn’t easy, but it was a big deal, like winning the lottery. This role not only provided me with invaluable experience but also equipped me with new skills that I had previously lacked. I couldn't be prouder of my academic achievements, which gave me the chance to secure such a fantastic position.

But then, as fate would have it, love intervened, whisking me away to the enchanting landscapes of Sweden, where my beloved awaited. What began as a whirlwind romance soon unfolded into the grand adventure of a lifetime. As I stepped onto Swedish soil, the air tingled with excitement, like a child on Christmas morning. However, reality quickly settled in, revealing the challenging reality of starting anew in a foreign land, with no friends, no job, and no fluency in the language.

I won’t lie, it was tough, and panic threatened to consume me as winter set in. Despite my confidence in my qualifications – with degrees in Biotechnology and experience in Customs Public Administration – the reality was a bit more challenging than I had anticipated. But, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work! I was determined to carve out a place for myself in my adopted home, so I immersed myself in the task at hand. That’s when I stumbled upon a Facebook event called ‘Job Search Safari’ by the International Citizen Hub Lund. It was like finding a treasure map! Meeting new people and learning about job hunting in Sweden suddenly made everything feel less overwhelming. From the first day, I encountered wonderful individuals who made life much better and easier not only for me but also for other internationals living here in Sweden. After active participation, I found myself in their legendary Kick Start Program. Here, I explored the nuances of Swedish work culture, acquiring tools to enhance my job

search and skills. Most importantly, it guided me in setting tailored career goals aligned with the Swedish job market.

With my husband's constant support and my strong desire to seize every opportunity, I embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and growth. It was during this pivotal moment that I stumbled upon yet another gem in Lund – the Social Hub. Eager to immerse myself in their events, I eagerly soaked up every bit of information and enjoyment they had to offer. Their gatherings became more than just occasions to attend; they became moments of personal transformation and connection, fuelling my spirit and broadening my horizons.

Volunteering, immersing myself in courses, and exploring new hobbies weren't just activities; they became my anchors. Each opportunity, event attended, Swedish lesson (one hilarious mispronunciation at a time), and even attempting to master the art of biking in a city as picturesque as a postcard, are more than just tasks; they symbolize my relentless pursuit of growth and adaptation. These endeavors weren't merely actions; they were manifestations of my commitment to thriving in my new environment, embracing every challenge with open arms and a determined spirit.

Now, after 7 months, as I stand surrounded by the lush greenery of this lively city, I can't help but feel amazed by my journey. Like a skilled juggler, I manage job hunting, volunteering, socializing, and even the occasional Swedish language mix-up with ease. Life's challenges are like threads in a tapestry, weaving together to create a beautiful picture of our existence. From being a wide-eyed dreamer to becoming skilled in navigating the job market, I've gathered countless experiences and formed lasting friendships. And as I keep moving to the beat of my own heart, I'm excited for what the future holds.

In retrospect, my journey – from Albania to Sweden – has been marked by challenges, triumphs, and, above all, a relentless pursuit of personal and professional fulfilment. As I continue to evolve and adapt, I am grateful for the opportunities that have shaped me into the person I am today – a resilient, resourceful individual ready to welcome whatever the future may hold. And you know what? It’s paying off! I’m starting to get the hang of things, making friends left and right, and slowly but surely, I’m finding my place in this beautiful city. Life’s an adventure, and I’m here, clumsily dancing through every twist and turn it throws at me. Who knows what’s next? But one thing’s for sure – I’m ready, with a helmet and a dictionary, just in case!

/ Edisona Krasta

To the LinkedIn profile of  Edisona Krasta