In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Lorena Ober, student at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in Osijek pursuing a masters degree in Art History and Information Technology and Computer Operator at Bitcoin Store in Osijek.

Throughout this interview Lorena will be discussing how she first encountered blockchain through a student job, her onboarding experience, the challenges of working in a new office, and the tools essential for her role.

Lorena shares how she balances her double-major graduate studies with work responsibilities, her views on the future of decentralized technologies — including the role of NFTs in the art world — and offers advice to students interested in the crypto and Web3 sectors. She also outlines her personal and professional ambitions for the next five years, emphasizing her desire to develop skills in blockchain development and Web3 applications.

• Lorena, thank you for taking the time for this interview. Could you briefly introduce yourself, your current position and workplace, how long you’ve been in this role, your areas of interest, and what you primarily do?

My name is Lorena and I currently work at the Bitcoin Store office in Osijek as a computer operator and customer support specialist. I’ve been in this position for a little over a year and a half. My areas of interest include cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and information technologies in general. I primarily advise clients, assist with cryptocurrency buying and selling, and educate users on the safe and responsible use of digital assets.

• When did you first express interest in cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology? How would you describe your first encounter with the topic?

Honestly, before starting at Bitcoin Store, I had no particular interest in cryptocurrencies — it all seemed rather abstract and complicated. My first real contact with blockchain technology happened through a student job at a Bitcoin Store office. During training in the Zagreb office, everything was still somewhat unclear, but with great help from colleagues, I quickly adapted, at least within the context of cryptocurrency trading in physical crypto exchanges.

• How did you end up at the Bitcoin Store office in Osijek? What was the application, onboarding, and work experience like?

I found out about the Bitcoin Store office in Osijek through an ad on the Student Service website. The application process included sending a CV and a motivational letter, followed by a job interview. The onboarding was structured — we underwent internal training on cryptocurrency operations, internal procedures, and customer support. Since the Osijek office was new and no experienced colleagues were physically present, the adjustment period was quite challenging. After two weeks of training, my colleague and I were left alone at the office with minimal experience. I especially remember when we had to independently handle the sale of a whole Bitcoin with just three weeks of experience. Today, such transactions are routine, but that initial period was very stressful, yet essential for our confidence and growth.

• How would you describe a day in the life of a Bitcoin Store employee in Osijek? What are the best aspects of your job?

An average workday involves client communication, assisting with crypto purchases and sales, and market monitoring. The best aspects of my job are its dynamism, continuous learning about new technologies, and working with people who share similar interests. I’d particularly highlight helping clients who have fallen victim to online scams. Although it’s sometimes hard for them to accept advice, those we manage to help are extremely grateful, and those moments give extra meaning to our work.

• Which tools would you consider essential in your job, and what were your initial impressions when learning to use them?

The key tools we use are internal systems for conducting transactions and compliance monitoring systems. We also frequently use publicly available tools such as blockchain explorers for checking addresses and tracking transactions, market monitoring websites, and various wallet applications. Of course, we also use our Bitcoin Store Wallet app and website. Initially, mastering all these tools was a challenge because the industry requires high precision, but with good training, I adapted quickly.

• As a student of a double-major graduate program, how do you manage to balance work and studies considering your area of interest?

Honestly, it’s sometimes difficult, but I’d say I manage it successfully for now. The studies require far more dedication than I expected, but since I’ve found myself in the field of Information Technologies, it presents a positive challenge. This job greatly helped me realize what interests me most and what I want to pursue in the future, which is blockchain technology and Web3 application development. Thanks to good time management and support from colleagues and my employer, I manage to balance work and study obligations, especially during demanding periods like midterms and exams.

• As a student of Information Technologies and Art History, how do you see the future of decentralized technology? Do you believe blockchain technology could find application in art through NFTs?

I see decentralized technology as a foundation for developing secure, transparent, and efficient systems in many industries. Blockchain, with its architecture, enables the removal of intermediaries, increased data security, and the creation of new business models based on trust. Regarding art, NFTs have already demonstrated how blockchain can help authenticate and track the ownership of artworks, creating new opportunities for artists globally. Although art is just one area of application, I believe blockchain will play an even more significant role in transforming traditional sectors in the coming years.

• What advice would you give to students considering a career in the crypto/blockchain industry and the Web3 sector?

I would advise them to stay curious and open to learning since the cryptocurrency and Web3 technology industry evolves extremely fast. I’d recommend starting with the basics — understanding how blockchain works, what smart contracts are, and how decentralized applications are developed. Any practical opportunity, such as participating in various projects, can be incredibly valuable. It’s also important to remain flexible because technologies advance quickly, and what we learn today may already be improved tomorrow. I think the best advice is not to be afraid of mistakes and to always ask questions because that’s the quickest way to learn and grow in this industry.

• Where do you see yourself in the next five years, personally and professionally, considering your studies and current job?

In the next five years, I see myself further developing my knowledge and skills in blockchain technology and Web3. I plan to finish my studies and continue building my career within the crypto industry, focusing particularly on developing decentralized applications and smart contracts. I hope to get opportunities for further professional growth within the company, working on projects involving Web3 technologies and innovations. Personally, I want to stay in an environment that encourages learning and progress, and professionally, I’d love to be part of a team working on advanced blockchain solutions and contributing to the development of future technologies.