Interview with an International: Anna
Anna’s journey in the Netherlands is a story of persistence and adaptation. Navigating the challenges and opportunities of living abroad, she explores what it means to build a career as an international professional in the Netherlands. From the highs and lows of job applications to finding her rhythm in the bustling city of Leiden.
Anna’s Journey
Anna’s journey starts in Italy, where she was born and raised. During her master’s degree, she decided she wanted to step out of her comfort zone. She found an internship in Leiden and moved here for six months in January 2024. That is how her adventure in the Netherlands began. After spending the summer back in Italy, Anna realised she was not ready to say goodbye to the Netherlands and decided to return. She is still here today, navigating life while taking on a new challenge: finding her next job.
Anna was captivated by life in the Netherlands, especially by the city of Leiden and its people, who are completely different from those back home. “They are totally different worlds”, she says. “The open-mindedness of the Dutch and their work culture were exactly what I was looking for.” To her, Leiden feels like its own little world, the right place to build a life. “You have everything right next to you. Everyone wants to go to Amsterdam or Rotterdam, but here you have everything you need, just the perfect number of things to do and places to go.”
Anna’s Corner in Leiden
When asked about her favourite spots in Leiden, Anna does not hesitate: “If I had to choose, it would be the Saturday market and De Burcht castle”, she says. The market, she explains, has a special energy. “You can pick up fresh produce and cheese, grab a quick lunch, or just wander through the busy crowd; it’s full of life. It reminds you that even amid the chaos of life, you can slow down.” But if you are looking for a moment of peace, then Anna recommends De Burcht. “It’s the perfect spot if you want some quiet, but at the same time you get to take in a beautiful view of Leiden or get a coffee at the café in front", she adds.
Anna studied biomedical engineering and became a junior quality officer at a company in Amsterdam. After working there for one year, her contract ended, and she is now looking for a new job.
A New Reality: The Dutch Job Market
Coming from the more hierarchical work culture of Italy, she was pleasantly surprised by how different working in the Netherlands felt. “Here, everyone has a voice and can have a say in projects and how things are done. You don’t feel the hierarchy or feel inferior to anyone”, she says. “The job market is open to internationals and young people; everyone is part of the same team, and you feel the connection between your colleagues. It doesn’t matter if you were the last to arrive; you are welcomed easily.”
Anna also appreciates the famous Dutch directness: “They do not go around issues or avoid telling you how things are. They get to the point and do not leave anything up in the air.”
Support Goes A Long Way
Job searching has been one of the most stressful parts of Anna’s experience in the Netherlands, second only to finding housing. She acknowledges that there are plenty of resources available but wishes there was more visibility for the organisations that help internationals in this process.
“I came across the Newcomer’s Guide by Leiden International Centre, which opened even more doors for me. Their website and the resources listed provided added support. It was a lifeline for me. For example, I learned that LinkedIn isn’t the only platform, and that there are also local organisations that can help you. There’s the Werkcentrum that can lend a hand and give you more direction on what to do and where to apply.”
Not speaking Dutch has made her search more difficult. “A lot of companies require a high level of Dutch, and some governmental services that could help are only in Dutch”, she explains. “I am not sure where I will be in a year, so it is limiting for me and for others in similar situations.”
Investing time and money into learning the language can be a challenge for internationals who are unsure of their long-term plans. "I want to learn Dutch, but it takes time”, Anna explains.
Make the Most of Your Opportunities!
Anna believes it is essential for young people to step out of their comfort zone. “If you have the chance to live somewhere else, take it! It will be one of the biggest investments in yourself and your future you can make.” And for internationals in her same situation? Her advice is simple: keep going and look around, there are a lot of organisations ready to give support or advice.
“If you’re convinced and motivated, you can do anything, and eventually something will come your way. Just be positive.” - Anna
