Anastasiia and Karina from Ostroh share their experience upon the completion of the internships with Placement Slovakia

Anastasiia Antoniuk and Karina Berdnikova, both students from The National University of Ostroh Academy in Ukraine, recently completed six-month internships at a big corporate company in Slovakia through Placement Slovakia. Anastasiia worked as a Data Analyst, while Karina served as a Content Syndication Support Trainee. Despite their different roles, their experiences were marked by growth, challenges, and unforgettable memories in a new cultural landscape..

Hands-on experience 

Anastasiia handled data management, analysis, and project coordination, enhancing her Excel and CoData skills while developing strategic planning abilities. She valued the collaborative and supportive work environment.
Karina worked on content syndication, data management, and rich media adaptation, improving her Excel skills and expertise in digital content management. Her role also strengthened her communication and teamwork. She enjoyed the positive work atmosphere and fulfilling tasks.

Both highlighted the value of mentorship and guidance during their internships.

Life in Slovakia

Both interns were captivated by the architecture and friendly people in Slovakia. Anastasiia observed cultural differences in cuisine, while Karina noted the similarities between Ukrainian and Slovak cultures. Both agreed that the welcoming environment and vibrant city life enhanced their overall experience.

Anastasiia enjoyed exploring the city and embracing the local culture, while Karina spent her free time traveling to new places and visiting local bars and ambient cafés in Bratislava. Their shared passion for exploration allowed them to fully immerse themselves in Slovak culture.

Challenges and growth

Anastasiia initially worried about working with experienced professionals but was pleasantly surprised by the supportive work culture. Karina faced challenges during the adaptation process, as she had to quickly learn new information and navigate a new professional landscape. However, both interns successfully overcame these challenges by embracing new experiences and seeking mentorship.

The internships significantly boosted their confidence and career readiness. Anastasiia feels more prepared for future job opportunities, while Karina believes that her practical experience will be instrumental in kickstarting her career after graduation.

Advice for Future Interns
Anastasiia and Karina are encouraging future interns to:

• Be open-minded and embrace new challenges
• Engage with the local culture – learning some Slovak phrases can enhance daily interactions
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship from more experienced colleagues
• Participate actively and share ideas – Slovak companies value motivated and independent employees

Placement Slovakia played a pivotal role in facilitating this enriching journey, ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience for both interns. As they return to university and continue their career paths, Anastasiia and Karina carry with them invaluable experiences and cherished memories from Slovakia.