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525

NameKristina
Genderfemale
Country of OriginEstonia
Destination CountryNorway
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I had never studied or worked abroad and longed to experience something new. I was looking for ways to better establish myself in Estonia. I came to a point where I realised there is nothing my country does to improve my salary or work environment; I really didn't see myself affording to buy a car or an apartment with my salary. Depending on my parents or a future boyfriend was not an option for me. I had to do something. Moving abroad and earning a better salary was the plan I came up with. I planned to stay in Norway no longer than two years. As I came with a job agency I really had no choice about where I will be living and working in Norway. I was informed that my first stay shall be in the north, in Vadsø. Northern Norway is nothing like the South or East of Norway; I find it extremely beautiful and calm. My first impression was – this place has a lot of immigrants already! Also, I quickly learned that Norway is way too expensive and Norwegians are really nice and easy-going people. I have been here for a year and a half now. I work as a nurse and in spare time engage in my hobbies – taking long walks, going for picnics, driving a snow scooter, looking at aurora borealis and enjoying life in the Norwegian way. My plans took an unexpected twist. I met the man of my dreams, my boyfriend, and my plans have changed, I am hoping to stay here now. As a result of living abroad I have become thankful for what I have. More than before, I appreciate my time with family and friends. My family means the world to me. Now, I have more opportunities to help my family. Also, I am completely independent, making my own decisions, paying my own bills and spending my own money. I think its important for a young adult to experience hard times, which prepare one for life. It can happen either at home or abroad, as long as it's happening. In my experience language is important for good integration. It is extremely difficult to live in another country even if the cultures do not feel that different. One needs to be open-minded about accepting the culture, habits and traditions of the host society. For integration to work, people of the host society have to tolerate you and have the desire to help you integrate. It is an effort on both sides, the newcomer and the host society. I hope to come back to Estonia one day, but more than anything, I want my family to do well, feel safe and cared for. I really want Estonia to do well. Fixing up a post-Soviet country is not easy, but it is possible. I hope Estonia takes in more immigrants, because it will create a good balance between emigration and immigration, the brain drain and the talent gain. I hope Estonia heals its weak points and makes Estonians happier people.

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