"I would like to contribute to creating a positive image of Romanians in the Netherlands and, if I can, to "export" to Romania what is good and makes the Netherlands work so well."
Mădălina Mitran is a Business Development Consultant and joined the Foundation in November 2017 as Team Coordinator.
What made you come to the Netherlands?
I came to the Netherlands with my boyfriend, whom I met in Greece. I was at a crossroads, he was transferred with his job back to the Netherlands and that's when I decided that this was my next "redemption to conquer".
Before leaving Romania did you feel informed about what was waiting for you here? Did you have any pleasant surprises or the opposite?
I did more research on the paperwork I need to have in order to register myself and my car here. I also started looking for a job before I left Greece, where I previously lived. As for the administrative process, I was very pleasantly surprised. However, I am still deeply disappointed about finding a job with higher education and consistent experience. I am sure I am doing a realistic analysis of my CV in relation to the requirements of the job, especially as I, in turn, evaluate other people's CVs at work on a daily basis. However, after eight months of consistent effort, I still fail to pass the pre-selection and get invited to many face-to-face interviews, although I have virtually attended enough of them.
How long have you been here? Have you adapted to the new culture? How was the process and how long did it take? How long did it take you to feel at home?
I arrived in the Netherlands eight months ago and I don't feel adjusted. I liked it at first, but until I find a job, I don't feel integrated, because I'm sure there will be a lot of cultural aspects to adapt to when I start working in the Dutch environment.
What do you still find difficult to understand about Dutch culture?
I find relationships between family members difficult to accept and understand.
What has changed in your way of life since you've been here?
I think I have become more succinct and no longer confuse politeness with genuine interest or a possible start to a friendship.
How do you see the relationship with other Romanians and the preservation of the Romanian identity abroad?
It gives me great pleasure to meet Romanians, to form friendships, where possible, and to speak Romanian. The further I am from Romania and the more different the society is, the more I want to keep my Romanian identity.
Why did you choose to get involved in the Foundation's work and what would you like to achieve through your contribution?
I want to be in contact with as many Romanians as possible and, above all, in an organized way, through which one can communicate nicely and politely. I would like to contribute to creating a positive image of Romanians in the Netherlands and, if I can, to "export" to Romania what is good and what makes the Netherlands work so well.
What do you like to do? What profession have you chosen and why?
I love being around people, coordinating and helping. I love being in a business environment. I am a consultant on European projects and a business developer, with degrees in political science, law, communication and public relations.
Would you like to tell us about a funny or interesting story you had in the Netherlands?
Come to think of it, I haven't had any of that before.
What are your plans for the future and how will you put them into practice?
I want to do my best to widen my circle of acquaintances here in the Netherlands so that, using all my personal and professional strengths, I can build a successful career and, with God's help, a family here.
Your motto or a quote that motivates you.
"I'm my own superhero.
