Hello, my name is Magdalena Kempczyńska and I am originally from Poland.

I work as a pharmacist in Valais. At work, I actually always communicate in German, rarely in English. From time to time I also have an opportunity to use my mother tongue, Polish.

What education did you do in your home country? 

I completed a 5.5-year Master's degree in pharmacy in Poland. In Switzerland, I also completed further pharmaceutical training at the FPH Institute. This compulsory further training is open to pharmacists who have completed a Master's degree in pharmacy and passed the federal examination in pharmacy, in order to ensure a high quality of pharmaceutical services and to enable graduates to carry out their professional activities in the relevant specialist area on their own responsibility. This further training can be completed in the specializations of dispensary or hospital pharmacy. I currently hold the federal continuing education title in dispensary pharmacy.

What kind of work ethic are you used to in your home country?

In my home country, I have always worked in very large teams. That's why I think team cohesion is one of the most important characteristics. An interesting fact I have to mention is that resolving conflicts is much easier in a Swiss group - communication is more direct, but no less polite, on the contrary.

What personal and/or typical characteristics from your culture do you take with you and are of benefit in Swiss healthcare?

I have often heard that Poles work very efficiently and have a high work ethic. I fully agree with this and see how necessary it is in my profession. Working as a pharmacist in Switzerland is an interesting challenge and, given the constant shortage of skilled workers, I make intensive use of my multitasking skills.

What contribution has Swiss HRmed made to your career?

Oh, it exceeded my expectations at the time. Thanks to Swiss HRmed, I had the inimitable opportunity to come to Switzerland for a one-week trial period to see whether my profession would allow me to realize my dream of getting to know Switzerland more comprehensively than just as a tourist.

A look back: How were you received and empathised in Switzerland?

My start was not easy, as I arrived alone during the pandemic restrictions. In the first few months, only my team kept me company. My work colleagues were full of empathy and understanding. Thanks to them, I got to know the culture, customs and dishes of the region. They told me where there were places worth seeing and which hikes I should go on. So you can understand that I look back with gratitude on how I was received in Switzerland.

A look ahead: What are your plans and ambitions here in Switzerland?

I am about to move to the canton of Bern. I already know almost every hiking trail in Upper Valais, so it's time to experience new hikes, new views, meet new people and hear a new dialect. And in a few years... hmmm - most likely it will be Graubünden 😉