Sohini Banerjee
"I’ve always dreamed of exploring new horizons, but I never imagined that my path would take me from the vibrant streets of India to the serene landscapes of Sweden, and ultimately to the dynamic city of Copenhagen, where new opportunities await."
A Journey Rooted in Culture and Passion
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. – Lao Tzu.
I was born in a small town in West Bengal, India, where I was immersed in the rich culture and traditions of my heritage, supported by the warmth of my family. My academic journey focused on English Literature and language, laying the groundwork for my professional career. Alongside my studies, I nurtured a passion for music and art as a trained Indian classical vocalist, specializing in Rabindra Sangeet, bhajans, and contemporary music, and enjoyed playing basketball. My parents always encouraged me to pursue a career that embraced my interests and hobbies, fostering a balanced and fulfilling life.
Embarking on a Professional Path
My career began as an English Lecturer at TDB College, Raniganj, West Bengal, India and continued at St. Xavier’s College, Asansol. In 2019, I shifted to teaching high school English at DAV Model School, Durgapur, India. During this entire journey, I honed my teaching skills and gained invaluable experience.
Embracing Change and New Beginnings
Life had other plans, and I have learned to embrace change with a positive outlook. As the saying goes, "We don't choose ideas; ideas choose us," and this rang true for me. In March 2023, my spouse received a post-doctoral offer in Austria, prompting me to leave my permanent teaching position in India to support him. Our interest in the Scandinavian way of life and work culture led us to move to Sweden in March 2024, after my spouse secured a postdoctoral position at Lund University.
Building a New Chapter in Sweden
Arriving in Sweden, I enrolled in Swedish language classes and registered with Arbetsförmedlingen to explore job opportunities. My path led me to the International Citizen Hub Lund (ICHL), where I attended various informative events and joined the Kickstart Program Fall 2024, which have empowered me to navigate the Swedish and Øresundregion job market with confidence and determination. These programs equipped me with the tools, confidence, and skills needed for my job search.
Networking and Community Support
I must appreciate the immense value of networking and fostering connections within the international community. Through my involvement with ICHL and Social Hub Lund, I was able to meet like-minded individuals who shared their experiences and offered mutual support. Volunteering at Social Hub Lund’s language café provided me with the opportunity to practice Swedish, connect with new people, and establish a sense of belonging in a new environment. Building a network is not just about connecting with others, but about creating a community where support and growth flourish.
A Dream Fulfilled: Landing My Ideal Job
I am thrilled to share that I have successfully secured my dream job as a lecturer in Academic Writing, Employability, and APO Officer at Niels Brock Copenhagen Business College, Denmark. This achievement reflects not only the power of resilience and adaptability but also the invaluable support of a strong community. As I embark on this exciting new chapter, I am eager to learn and grow professionally, while also contributing to the continued success of both the college and the students. I look forward to embracing this opportunity, developing new skills, and making a meaningful impact in my field.
Acknowledgments
As I reflect on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the support of those who have been instrumental in making this experience both enriching and transformative. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my spouse, Dr Rahul Bhattacharya, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been my foundation throughout this journey. To my family, for their constant love and belief in me, and to all my friends and well-wishers for being a source of strength and inspiration.
A Message of Hope and Inspiration
Upon introspection, I am reminded of the words of Theodore Roosevelt: "Believe you can and you’re halfway there". My story is a testament to the importance of embracing new opportunities and staying resilient in the face of change. I hope my journey serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their passions, take risks, and remember that it's never too late to start anew and achieve your dreams.
/Sohini Banerjee
Uppdaterad:
