Trying new things, learning new things: Svea's internship at Jungheinrich
Starting an internship often means new faces, new tasks and new challenges. For Svea Packheiser, an intern in the Social Sustainability team, this start was exciting, but above all one thing: a step that was well worth taking.
My name is Svea and I completed my bachelor's degree in teaching at Leuphana University in Lüneburg. After gaining six months of experience in employer branding at Jungheinrich, I am currently working in the Social Sustainability team. The path to Jungheinrich presented me with challenges, but at the same time showed me new opportunities that I had not expected before.
Why I gave it a go
Applying to Jungheinrich was a big step for me. After graduating, I wasn't sure whether the direction I had taken so far was really the right one. At the same time, I felt the desire to try something new and creative.
The job advertisement in the field of employer branding was a perfect match for my interests and strengths, and I had a very positive image of Jungheinrich. That gave me the courage to apply. After all, a temporary internship is the perfect way to pursue this desire before I commit to a long-term job.
My start in my first internship
I was excited before the internship began. Since I had no previous experience in business, I was unsure whether I would be able to properly understand the topics that awaited me.
What reassured me was an invitation to lunch with my future team before the internship began. Getting to know them early on took a lot of the pressure off. On my first day, I arrived at the office feeling positive and welcome, rather than like a stranger.
Right from the first week, I was involved in day-to-day business as a full member of the team. I was allowed to work creatively, contribute my own ideas and was directly involved in projects that are important for the company, such as the development of new career websites.
My team took me seriously, supported me and trusted me. As a result, I quickly felt like I belonged.
What I learned about the world of work – and about myself
I learned a lot during my internship: both professionally and personally. Of course, during my time at Jungheinrich, I was able to learn a lot about economic processes, an area I knew little about before.
Above all, however, I realised that courage pays off and that sometimes you just have to get started. I was able to learn a lot about myself, further discover my own strengths and find out what I really enjoy doing.
I developed new skills, for example in the graphic design tool Canva, in video editing and in presenting myself confidently in front of my colleagues.
What remains: confidence, clarity – and many wonderful memories
Emotionally, I take a lot with me. I look to the future with a good feeling, with clearer ideas about my career path and with memories of a team that encouraged and supported me. I've also made some friends.
Another thing I'm taking away with me is the realisation that it's important to just try things out. That's also my tip to others, especially if you're unsure whether to take the next step. You can't know everything in advance. You learn a lot in your day-to-day work, and sometimes it's precisely this courage that opens doors you wouldn't have expected before.
