Alumni testimonial
'Never just settle with the first opportunity, but thrive for what you really wish for in a job.'
Jana Sheviakova from Germany graduated in summer 2011 and is currently employed as Junior Product Manager at L'Oreal in Germany.
How did you find your current position?
I was very lucky, as I already signed a contract before even really looking for a job. I completed two internships with excellent evaluations at L'Oreal in Germany after my Bachelor Studies. Two months before I finished the Master in Amsterdam I received a call from my previous marketing director at the luxury products division at L'Oreal. Three interviews later I got a job offer and started right away after submitting my master thesis.
How soon did you find a job after graduation?
I did not send out any applications, since the internships I have done helped me in getting my current position. I believe that internships are a great opportunity not only to gain lots of relevant experience, but also to expand your network and to prove your abilities and skills.
An internship can indeed serve as an entrance card to your future job, as it is always safer for employers to take somebody they are already confident about. That is why I encourage everybody to think about what you really are interested in and to consciously look for internship opportunities that support your idea. You are the one who forms your future, so never just settle with the first opportunity, but thrive for what you really wish for in a job.
How would you describe your current position?
As a product manager I am responsible for the introduction of new products to the German market as well as the management of the entire existing portfolio in Germany. This includes a close and efficient cooperation with other departments, e.g. sales, logistics, controlling and legal for the realisation of marketing goals. Considering budgetary limitations I prepare marketing and sales campaigns and create advertising materials, which requires extensive organizational as well as creative planning and prearrangement. The analysis of the market is also a huge part of the job. I work crazy hours but I learn a great deal and I grow personally and in a professional way with every single day.
Did you undertake any extra-curriculair activities during your master’s?
I was always very active and never at rest. During my Bachelor Studies I organized introduction days for freshman students and I had a position as Vice President for Talent Management at AIESEC, the world's largest student-run association. Beside this, I did several internships and part-time jobs in different areas. In Amsterdam I continued the activities when I joined SEFA and completed an internship at PHILIPS next to the Master Studies.
Do you have any career advice for our prospective students?
I encourage everybody to gain professional experience through internships. On the one hand it helps to decide on your career path and to realize what you really want to achieve. Theory and practice can sometimes be far apart from each other. On the other hand, internships can help you to gain ground in the working life. Finally, never stop dreaming, believe in yourself, embrace opportunities and face obstacles and changes without any fear.