Internship or Exchange
As a student on the Master of Business with Major in Finance I had a chance to choose in the 2nd year between studying abroad for a semester, taking regular subjects for 30 ECTS or taking a full-time internship for two months, which would later be converted into credits. I even got an offer to do an exchange in Copenhagen, but inspired by the possibility of practical experience, I set my sights on internships—a decision that would eventually shape my professional journey in ways I had never imagined.
The Challenge: Navigating the Norwegian Job Market
From October of my first Master's year, I threw myself into the search for internship opportunities in Norway. Despite my enthusiasm, the initial responses were disheartening. The barriers were significant—my limited knowledge of Norwegian and the stiff competition made the pursuit seem quite pessimistic. Yet, I refused to let these challenges deter me.
A Turning Point: Career Day at BI
The turning point came thanks to the proactive efforts of BI Norwegian Business School's administration in Bergen. A career day was organised, adjusted to international students: companies interested in offering internships to a diverse student body presented in English, which significantly leveled the playing field for someone like me.
It was here that I first encountered Stacc Escali AS, a Nordic software giant with over three decades of experience in the financial software sector. With over 250 employees and serving more than 280 customers across various industries, Stacc represented the ideal company for me to apply my financial knowledge in a practical setting.
The Internship: A World of Opportunity
A week after making my first connection with Stacc, I found myself in an interview that opened the doors to an invaluable internship experience. This opportunity wasn't just about adding a line to my resume; it was a deep dive into the real world of treasury management, financial software, and the nuances of Power BI.
Beyond the technical skills, the internship was a revelation in cultural adaptation. The Norwegian work culture, with its emphasis on team cohesion, professional development, and the genuine value placed on each employee's contributions, was refreshingly different from my previous experiences. As an intern, I did not feel like a temporary addition, but a valued member of the team, involved in strategic meetings and client interactions.
The Offer: A Dream Realized
As my internship neared its end, a discussion about my future plans with my manager led to an offer I couldn't refuse: a chance to join Stacc Escali AS full-time post-graduation. My journey from an international student struggling to find a footing in the Norwegian job market to a valued team member of a leading software company is a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and the right educational opportunities.
Conclusion: Lessons Learned
Reflecting on my journey, several key lessons stand out. First, never underestimate the value of perseverance and the role of educational institutions in bridging the gap between academia and the professional world. Second, the importance of cultural adaptability and openness to learning cannot be overstated. Finally, always be ready to seize opportunities—they might just lead to your dream job.
For those contemplating a similar path, remember that every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. My story is proof that with the right mix of determination, support, and education, borders can blur, and dreams can become reality.