This week our interviews with Young Professionals in Denmark continue, and our latest candidate is Rona Naseri.

Tell me about yourself

I grew up in the suburbs outside of New York City. I used to bake professionally, mostly sourdough breads and American pastries. I decided that I wanted to change careers and focus more on business and management. I knew it would be very different, but I was ready for something new! So, I went back to school to complete my bachelor's in business administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management. Now, I'm pursuing my master's degree at Copenhagen Business School. I'm really happy with my decision to move to Copenhagen

What brought you to Denmark?

I travelled to Copenhagen a few times and always felt that I would come back. When my college offered the opportunity to study abroad, the obvious choice for me was to apply to go to Copenhagen. After studying at CBS on exchange, I fell in love with Denmark and Danish culture. I was determined to come back. I applied for my Masters and moved back to Denmark 7 months after my exchange ended.

What is something you wish you knew about Denmark before you came here the first time?

I wish I realized how much more advantageous it is to have a basic understanding of the Danish language prior to moving here. I am taking Danish language courses now, but I think learning the basics of the language in advance would have been helpful.

What are you currently studying?

My program, MSoSc Management of Creative Business Processes, focuses on how to be an effective manager within the creative industries. Examples would be music, art, fashion, IT/tech, etc. More specifically, we learn about how to be how to improve internal processes to become more innovative and competitive. I's very interesting and I love the flexibility it provides me to work across different industries.

You are currently working at Copenhagen Capacity, can you tell me a bit about what you do?

I was hired as a student assistant to the Talent Attraction department. I am a research assistant so I work within recruitment and get to help with things such as manage the talent pool, assist with the process of launching the Talent Attraction campaigns, and will also work on our monthly newsletter. I am really excited about my new role here!

How did you find the position at Copenhagen Capacity?

I found the position on LinkedIn. The post for the position was shared by one of my contacts. I applied for the position and the rest is history.

What are your long term goals?

I feel that my long term professional goals are constantly changing. As of now, I'd love to combine my HR management background with the new management knowledge I am gaining at CBS. Who knows if that will change by the time I graduate. One thing I know for certain is that I would like to stay in Denmark and grow here professionally.

How did you find out about the YPD programme?

There was a link to the YPD programme on my FB feed. After I read about the programme, I felt that it fit my needs perfectly. I really value that the program focuses on international students that want to stay and work in Denmark after graduation. The workshops and the matchmaking events are interesting and a great opportunity for networking.

How was the process of adapting to Denmark?

It has been a fairly smooth process for me because I already lived here for 5 months last year, before moving here again for my masters. Also, as a new student, I was quickly able to many Danish and international students. Going to school in Denmark is a fantastic way to meet new people. Most people here speak English so that makes the transition process much easier. But, I chose to sign up for Danish language classes because, for me, it is important to try my best to fit in here and I think learning the language will really help. On the other hand, I was used to driving everywhere in NY, so I had to get used to losing that convenience. But I bought a new bike my first week here and hope to make it my main mode of transport soon, like a true Dane!

What was your biggest challenge moving to Denmark?

It was most difficult for me to move away from my friends and family. I lived in New York my entire life and had built a social and professional network there. Facetime has been a big help in keeping in touch with them! Even though I am sad to move away from my friends and family, I know they will visit eventually I look forward to showing them around Copenhagen.

What is your favourite spot in Copenhagen?

That is such a tough question! I don't know if I can pinpoint a favourite spot because I have so many. What I can say, is that I love walking around Christianshavn. I don't think I could ever get tired of walking along the canals, boats, and old town charm. The backdrop is beautiful and if anyone reading hasn't been there yet, I highly recommend getting lost in Christianshavn.