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Education:
First degree in electrical and electronic engineering.
When did you come to the UK and why did you come ?
I came first in 2005 as a seasonal worker in the university summer vacation. When I finished my degree I came back to get a permanent job. It was hard to find work in Poland at the time and it was poorly paid.
What job are you doing ?
I am leading a production team in one of the pack houses. As a seasonal worker I used to work in the field planting and picking lettuces.
What kind of accommodation do you have and how did you get it ?
When I was a seasonal worker my employer arranged for me to stay in a caravan. When I became a full time worker, I found permanent rented accommodation with another friend. It was easy. I went to estate agents and got fixed up in the second week of looking.
How long do you plan to stay in the UK ?
Probably another two years
Where did you learn/ are you learning English ?
When I came here first I didn’t know a word of English. My employer lays on classes for beginners for seasonal workers but I didn’t get the time to go to them. I have picked up the language from the internet and from work. I think I will go to college to learn more.
What are your plans for the future ?
I plan to go back to Poland and get a job similar to the one I am doing here. Something related to my degree. Leading a production team for example.
Settling in:
How easy/difficult was it to ...
... open a bank account ?
It was easy. It took just 10 minutes. That was partly because when I came as a seasonal worker my employer provided me with a temporary bank account. When I opened a permanent account it was with the same bank.
... transfer money to your bank back home ?
I transfer money sometimes. I do it via the internet. It is no problem. Lloyds Bank has an agreement with a Polish bank for the free transfer of money.
... find a doctor and dentist and register with them ?
I have never needed a doctor and am not registered with one. I am registered with a dentist. It was easy – I just made an appointment. If I need to register with a doctor I would find out from friends where to go in the town.
... drive on the left ?
No problem after the first week. Not an issue.
What type of driver's licence do you have ?
I have an EU driver's licence that means I can drive anywhere in the EU.
What help did you get from your employer on getting settled ?
Yes they provided a welcome pack with information about accommodation, the clothing I needed for the job, how to open a bank account, etc.
How have you been treated by British people you have met ?
Most British people are very polite, very friendly. Some don’t know anything about Poland and think they will meet snow bears there ! That can be annoying.
What do you think of British food ?
Polish food is much tastier. I don’t like British beef. Polish beef has a different taste.