Oksana Shvets
What do I do professionally?
I was born in Ukraine, in the old historic city of Kamieniec Podolski in the Ukainian-Polish family. I have graduated from the Kijev Kornijczuk Institute. My specialization was library science. Afterwards I got the MA degree in Educational Institutions Management. I worked in the library of that university and in the Registry Office where I registered civil marriages.
I had the opportunity to register different multi-national marriages and I was very glad when Polish people were getting married. I always applauded ‘Girko!”-„Gorzko!”
After the war broke out I came to Poland. I chose Katowice, because I had been there a few times. My son studied at the University of Silesia. I remembered my son’s stories about his life and studies in Poland. When I visited The Scientific Information Centre and the Academic Library I was very impressed. It did not cross my mind that one day I will work there.
My first trip here was a trip to Panewniki to the Basilica of the Asscension of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was there, that my soul was calm. It meant a lot to me!
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After some time I changed the department. I met new colleagues and new manager of the Collection Development Department Grażyna Razik MA. I am impressed with the help and support of my colleagues while training me in my future tasks.
My first day at work
On my first day of work I talked with the manager of the Acquisitions and Collection Development Department, Ms Anna Śpiechowicz. After our conversation she introduced me to the employees of the department. It was really good to see their sincere smiles, give handshakes and hear their good wishes. I will remember it till the end of my life.
What suprised me?
On my birthday I decided to celebrate not only by bringing sweets but also to treat my colleagues to pelmieni. I was happy to hear everyone liked it. We celebrated on the 6th of December – St. Nicholaus Day. I am not sure who was happier – those who ate the pelmieni or me – by knowing that they like it. We talked about food in both our countries. Thanks to my grandma Domka Falińska I learned about Polish language and dishes. What I don’t understand is that the cheese-potato filled pierogi are called “Russian style pierogi” in Poland. Such name never functioned in the Ukraine. What is interesting our countries prepare beetroot soup in a different way – it also tastes differently. I learned that in the mountains Ukrainian-style beetroot soup is called „vegetable cream soup”. I need to try it some time.
What I like about Katowice?
I learn about Katowice every day. I love going for a walk to the Trzy stawy lakes, to the Kościuszki Park or just to walk around the city, learn about the culture and traditions, meet new people. Poles are hospitable, good and wise people. With time I understood that I love this country. I met many people here who became not only my friends, but my second family.
I hope my stay here will be as good as it has been till now and I am full of hope for the future!