Name: Minh Tạ Anh
Home Country: Vietnam
Previous studies: Bachelor of Economics – International Economics, Foreign Trade University
Current study programme at BI: MSc in Business at Campus Bergen
Hello, readers! Buckle up for a journey into my dynamic summer, where I embarked on not one but two incredible internships in vastly different sectors: Oil & Gas and Fertilizer & Agriculture.
But first, let me introduce myself. I'm an international student pursuing an MSc in Business (Leadership and Change) at campus Bergen, and I'm on a mission to carve out a career in sustainability, with a focus on people and organizations.
This summer, I had the privilege of working as a content and media developer at Rystad Energy during their summer intern program and contributing to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives at Yara as part of BI's internship program in the autumn semester.
The Internship Hunt: Where Dreams Meet Reality
Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of finding these fantastic internships. There are two common types: summer internships and those integrated into academic programs.
Summer internships, typically running from June to August, offer a chance to gain real-world experience while exploring various industries. They're often voluntary and last for a minimum of two months.
On the other hand, BI internships are seamlessly woven into the academic fabric, and many positions will be open for applications from February to the late of April. These are often tailor-made to align with a student's field of study, creating a harmonious blend of education and experience. They take place at the beginning of the fall semester of 2nd year for master’s studies.
Both types are invaluable, but they cater to different aspects of a student's growth.
A Friendly Reminder for International Students
In Norway, many summer internship programs wrap up their hiring process for the next year in the fall of the current year. This can be a stumbling block for international students who've recently arrived in Norway. Keep your LinkedIn game strong and invest a few minutes each day in the treasure hunt for new openings. Additionally, the BI Career Portal is a valuable resource, especially for identifying BI Internship positions, as some of these opportunities are exclusively posted on our Portal.
The Norwegian Corporate Wonderland
Working in Norwegian companies was an eye-opener. The flexibility in working hours and locations for many positions were delightful surprises. While it's important to note that this doesn't apply to all businesses, it's true that most of them offer the option of working from home and/or enjoying more flexible schedules. You can stroll in early, be fashionably late (within reason), or even work from the comfort of your own home all day.
The Quest for Knowledge
I was on a quest for knowledge in both internships.
At Rystad Energy, I delved into the world of educating clients about our products. I crafted engaging content on e-learning platforms to guide clients through the intricate maze of our system.
At Yara, I shifted gears to focus on internal communication content and campaigns to boost awareness of DEI initiatives. Each company had its own unique business model and strategies, making every day a new adventure. As Steve Jobs once said, "Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish." And nothing embodies this spirit better than an internship that lets you try, fail, and then try again.
The Power of Networking Over Lunch
Lunch breaks were a highlight of my day. It's that precious time to bond with your colleagues. We chatted about everything under the sun, from bemoaning the skyrocketing house prices to planning our next cabin trip or simply swapping food recipes. My advice? Don't be shy! If you feel comfortable, share your travel experiences, hiking tales, or whatever tickles your fancy. Lunch time is fun time!
Reports & Presentation
These are integral parts of any internship. They can be weekly business updates or final reports/presentations in your last internship week. Practice and enhance some PowerPoint and PowerBI skills to leverage those reports. Practice and double-check with your mentor also makes you more confident and gain valuable insights before the presentation day.
Mentorship
And let's not forget about mentorship. You're not navigating the labyrinth of deadlines and tasks alone. Your mentor is your guiding star. Keep those conversations genuine, update them regularly, and don't hesitate to share both the wins and the challenges. Even after your internship ends, the friendships forged remain eternal!
Unveiling Opportunities
Last but certainly not least, internships open doors to understanding how companies function and whether you're a good fit for future graduate positions. If the answer is a resounding "yes," then internships are your golden ticket to expanding your network, honing your skills through case studies, and becoming more aligned with your dream job.
Closing remarks
So, there you have it - my enlightening summer filled with adventure, flexibility, and invaluable experiences. Remember, your internship is not just a steppingstone - it's a journey that shapes your future.
Stay curious, stay inspired, and above all, stay hungry for knowledge and experience!
