Interview with David in Siena

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City? Siena

Date of Interview? March 1, 2005

Let us know a little about yourself?
Have been a research scientist in Siena for three years now. Met my beautiful wife here whilst she was studying at the University for Foreigners.

Why did you decide to move to Italy?
I finished my studies in the UK and wanted to take part in the european union research programme. This required moving overseas and Chiron Vaccines was the best offer I had.

What type of process did you go through to be able to move here?
To move here was easy. I have a British passport and dont need a visa.

What problems did you run into during the initial process and how were you able to fix them?
My company sorted out many things for me and only had to get the Permesso di Soggiorno. This was frustrating but my colleages were really helpfull. Biggest problem was finding a place to live. I was living in a hotel at first and could speak little Italian. Was lucky that my company helped me out through word of mouth but have since gotten an apartment through http://www.soloaffitti.it .

How long have you been here?
Three years two months.

What type of adjustment problems have you had?
The language is by far my biggest problem. I can speak enough Italian now to live here but I find social situations exhausting.

What do you wish someone had told you before you made the leap ?
It is worth getting a telephone, internet connection, car etc...however difficult, painfull, frustrating the experience.

What inside secret could you pass on to others looking to move over?
If you drive a car registered in another country they will never follow up parking fines...don't pay them.

Do you have any disappointments, things you thought would happen but haven't for whatever reasons ?
I thought I would be able to speak better Italian.

What has changed about you since you have been here ?
I have definitely changed since I came to Siena. I am much more forward when dealing with people to ensure that I get good service.

Do you think that you will stay forever?
I don't think that I will. But it is a difficult question and you never know. Deep down I think I would like to live in an English speaking country.