Interview with Oleksandra Maslova from Ukraine
About freedom, individuality and challenges
Oleksandra comes from Ukraine and has been living in Germany since March 2022. She took the integration courses up to level B2 at Carl Duisberg Centren and is currently participating in a program that supports Ukrainian managers in Germany. In our interview, she is talking about her life in Germany and her experiences in learning German, but also about freedom, individuality and challenges.
1. Oleksandra, what was your first impression of Germany?
My first impression of Germany was that the people were very nice and friendly, which made it easier for me to settle in. A little later, I realized that there is a high level of freedom and loyalty. This is sometimes very unusual for me. I also noticed that the people here are diverse and very individual.
2. In which program are you currently participating?
I am participating in a program called “Partnering in Business with Germany”, which is supported by “Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH” (German association for international cooperation) in collaboration with Carl Duisberg Centren.
The program also intends to support Ukrainian managers who have come to Germany because of the war.
Editor’s note: For more information visit https://partnering-in-business.de/
3. How did you learn about Carl Duisberg Centren?
You can only find a job in Germany if you know the language. The Job Center recommended Carl Duisberg Centren for completing a language course. I took the integration courses up to level B2.
4. What has been the greatest challenge up to now?
The biggest challenge was - and still is - to find a job. I have not yet been able to find a suitable job, even though I have already passed the language test at level B2 and have successfully completed my training in Ukraine before.
5. What are your experiences in learning German?
For me, the most difficult part of German is the grammar. It is difficult to use the correct grammar when speaking, which is why I do not always speak correctly. It takes a lot of practice and time to learn a language. The most important thing is to find a teacher that suits you best – then, it is easier to learn the language.
6. What do you wish for in the near future?
I want to find my place in this society and feel free and comfortable.
Thank you very much for your time! We wish you all the best!
