How did you come up with the idea of starting an apprenticeship after university?
Nathalie: During an orientation internship shortly before finishing my degree, I realized that I was more interested in the technical content than the actual tasks I would have taken on after university. And after a short consideration, I took the risk of adding an apprenticeship to my degree.
Were there any challenges or concerns about the decision to start an apprenticeship? And if so, what sort?
Nathalie: I say risked because many people think that training after university is a step backwards. In fact, most people follow up vocational training with a degree, not the other way round. But for me, it’s absolutely the right way. I’m now learning so much at my company, not just technical things, but also about myself – and I’m also learning new, training-relevant subjects at vocational school.
What does a typical training day look like? How do you find the balance between theory and practice?
Nathalie: I find the mix of vocational school and company very well balanced. I go to vocational school twice a week. There, we learn the theoretical part that is relevant to our apprenticeship. It’s very different at the company: we first learn the basics, in my case, how to program with the Java programming language. After that, we’re expected to solve tasks independently.
I think it's a really good mix of theory and practice. We also learn about business processes in general and other important fundamentals, such as: how is the company structured? How do specific processes work? How do I record hours or request vacation? So lots of basics that I would have liked to have learned during my degree, too.
What new skills and knowledge have you already gained through the apprenticeship that are particularly valuable for you?
Nathalie: During my apprenticeship, I learned to work autonomously and show more initiative, such as approaching colleagues independently. But I am also learning more about myself: how do I function at work? How do I work – and how do I work best? How do I get along with my colleagues? I’m also learning how best to give and receive feedback. Overall, I can say that communication plays a critical role. It’s precisely the kind of hands-on experience I was hoping for and what I missed during my studies. I can also use some of this in my private life, for example, managing my time more efficiently or budgeting my salary. Honestly, I feel more grown-up than ever!
Do you already have plans and goals for the time after your apprenticeship?
Nathalie: As Arineo trains its own future talent through the apprenticeship, I’d very much like to stay at the company and contribute, i.e., help shape things. For example, by supporting future trainees, perhaps even as a trainer myself.
Do you have any advice for anyone about to choose a career?
Nathalie: Of course. Here are my tips:
Nathalie's tips
- Definitely start early! This applies not only to applying but also to tackling career choices. This could be as part of an internship, for example. Choosing a career takes time. Use the advice the employment agency offers or learn about apprenticeships and companies at careers information fairs. So, gather detailed information about suitable training opportunities and companies in your region early.
- It’s also important to keep a good CV up to date. That’s the business card in your application. In my opinion, a well-designed CV is a huge advantage.
- There is no point in pretending – above all, you should be honest with yourself and ask yourself what skills you have. Ultimately, it’s about finding a job that suits you and that you enjoy.
Further insights into training at Arineo
Nathalie Morenings
Trainee at the Göttingen site in the first year of IT training, specializing in application development.
