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NameFranca
Genderfemale
Country of OriginArgentina
Destination CountryEstonia
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In Buenos Aires I was a lecturer of law in tourism at the University of de La Empresa of Argentina. I like solving problems, so I also advised the students in degree choices, integration problems, communication etc. They would come to my office, saying Franca, I need your help! In 2014 my university sent me to Jyväskylä, Finland for a summer course. During that time I visited neighbouring countries. I was planning to continue my graduate studies in Buenos Aires, but visiting Tallinn, Estonia. changed my mind.I looked for graduate programs across  northern Europe, and chose Tallinn University. To prepare, I began reading about Estonian history and what happened in the country under the different rulers, about how Estonia became independent, and about its important role. I thought, I want to be there, live with those people, and learn more about them.  We are different in so many ways, but I thought I would like to settle down there, to combine my Argentinian culture with the Estonian culture. I respect how Estonians have been historically persistent and brave. After all the hard years under foreign rule, Estonians kept their own language, are proud of themselves, defend themselves and are hardworking. On the Independence Day celebration I especially felt this and thought, These people are strong! The first thing I did was to take Estonian language course, so I would not be afraid to speak. People are kind when they see I am trying to speak Estonian. I think Estonians have values and they appreciate honest behaviour. I am honest, even my name means that in Spanish. Yet, I understand their reluctance and resistance to foreigners. Estonians are resistant because they have been under the dominance of several realms. Historically, much of what came from outside was a threat, so its understandable that they are afraid of the unknown. But  I havent felt any discrimination. I think they like me! Having different people in a society is not a threat. We can work on developing tolerance. My studies in international relations combine my law background and add an international point of view, which is especially relevant in terms of the migration situation. I would like to work with the integration of foreigners and help solve issues that happen when cultures combine. It seems everybody wants to come to EU because they assume life here is beautiful. Life here is not all rosy. You have to be realistic. I dreamed of meeting a tall, blonde Estonian man, but I found out it is hard to have a relationship with someone from a different cultural background. You cant have it all! If there was a perfect place, everyone would be there. Yet I feel part of the Estonian culture. Estonia has possibilities for everyone. It is a good country to be active and work hard. I think Estonia is good for me and I am good for Estonia.

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