It’s not easy to get hold of Thomas! He’s very busy completing an undergraduate Dual Studies Degree in International Business (at accadis Hochschule) with a placement at EVS Translations to study business theory and gain business experience. Our jet-setting trainee tells us about the highlights of his work and the experience of being part of an international team.
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How did you find out about this opportunity?
After deciding what I wanted to study—international business—I found out about EVS Translations through my university’s website, where the company is listed as a partner for cooperation. I knew immediately that the Dual Studies Degree with EVS Translations would make it possible to combine my interest in business with my passion for languages.
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How is your time at EVS Translations going? Are you managing to juggle your study and work commitments?
So far I’ve managed it really well. I’ve already completed two years of my study program with just one year remaining. For me, personally, the mix of work and study is perfect. Having this regular three-month change between work and university is an excellent way to apply theoretical knowledge while developing practical business skills such as communicating with clients, organising a daily workload, planning projects and working under pressure to meet deadlines. But it’s true to say that it’s sometimes stressful and I don´t have as much free time as normal students do.
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You’re based at the EVS Translations head office in Offenbach. Have you had a chance to visit any of the other international offices?
At the end of my first year at EVS Translations, I had the chance to join the team in Atlanta, USA, for nearly two months. There’s also a plan for me to visit the office in Nottingham at some point.
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What is your plan once you finished your course?
After my three-year study program, my plan is to work as a project manager for EVS Translations.
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What are the highlights so far for your time at EVS Translations?
During my time at EVS Translations, I’ve had the chance to work in nearly every department, so I’ve gained a great overview of the company and its operations. Maybe my time at the Atlanta office was a particular highlight, because it was the first time to get detailed insight into project management and to really take on the responsibility of the project manager’s role.
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What other languages do you speak?
Besides my mother tongue German, I also speak English and Spanish. I lived for three months in Colombia to work on my Spanish, I polished up my English at EVS Translations USA, and I lived in Newcastle, UK, during my study program, so I picked up some of the local lingo, too!
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What would you say to other people interested in the Dual Studies Degree with EVS Translations?
EVS Translations truly is a great place to work and everyone’s been very supportive. I’m enjoying my work here and I’ve learned so much—business skills and knowledge that I couldn’t have gained through study alone. If you’re interested in working for EVS Translations, you should have a passion for languages and speak a high level of English since you’ll have daily contact with several nationalities across the global offices. Last but not least, be ready to commit to the responsibilities of a real workload. 😉
