Building Skills: Insights from a student’s First Internship
As we celebrate International Student’s Day, Coline’s story is a perfect example of how internships can bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world. Currently in her first year of university, where she focuses on human resources and management, Coline joined our People department on May 2024 for a 2 months internship. In this interview, she shares her journey at LNDS, reflecting on her experiences, challenges, and accomplishments.
Embarking on the LNDS Journey
Can you share a bit about yourself and your educational background? What led you to pursue an internship in Human Resources, and how did it fit into your first year of studies?
I graduated from high school in France, with a focus on human resources in my STMG (French acronym for Sciences and Technologies of Management and Administration) program. I enjoyed it and decided to continue in this field because I like everything related to payroll, being attentive to employees’ needs, and helping people.
Currently in my first year of Higher National Diploma (HND), focusing on human resources and management, doing an end-of-year internship was one of the requirements to validate this first year. I initially found another organisation for my internship, but they canceled at the last moment. So, after having reinitiated a candidacy campaign, I was invited to a successful interview by the People department. I joined the Luxembourg National Data Service (LNDS) on May 2024 for a 2 months internship, and after this internship, I was lucky enough to continue with LNDS on a student job contract.
How did LNDS integrate you into the team and the organisation’s culture?
From the moment I arrived, they showed me around and introduced me to my colleagues, and explained how everything works. I also participated in team-building activities, such as dining together and visiting a treetop adventure park. These activities helped strengthen team cohesion and allowed me to get to know everyone better.
Overcoming Challenges and Professional Growth
What were your expectations going into your internship at LNDS, and can you describe your role within your team? How did your work contribute to LNDS’ goals?
Going into my internship, I hoped to work on meaningful projects that were relevant to my studies, and LNDS certainly met those expectations. I was pleasantly surprised by how substantial my tasks were. My main responsibility was within the People Department, where I focused on creating an employee survey. The goal was to enhance the quality of life and well-being of LNDS employees by offering benefits such as yoga sessions and sports memberships. Part of my tasks involved compiling a list of contacts, reaching out to companies, and following up to establish partnerships.
I was surprised by the extensive use of English in my daily tasks. At first, it was challenging, but it turned out to be a great opportunity to improve my language skills. My supervisors were very supportive, often making meetings bilingual to help me better understand and gain confidence. This project not only aligned with LNDS’ commitment to employee well-being but also gave me significant responsibility. The trust my team placed in me motivated me to deliver my best work.
Did your internship allow you to apply what you’ve learned in your studies?
Yes, especially in areas related to employee well-being and quality of life at work, which I studied this year. I contributed by offering a fresh perspective on improving the work environment. I also learned new practical skills, like advanced Excel techniques, organising tasks, writing professional emails, and using various software tools.
What were some challenges you faced during your internship, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was leading a company-wide meeting in English to present the results of my survey. It required a lot of preparation and was quite stressful, but with the support and encouragement of my tutors and colleagues, I managed to succeed. Another challenge was overcoming my natural shyness, particularly when making phone calls. To build my confidence, I practised making calls on my own, which helped me feel more at ease over time, especially during team interactions.
How has this internship shaped your career aspirations?
This internship confirmed that I enjoy working with people. I plan to complete my diploma, then pursue a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in this field, ideally with an apprenticeship component. Working at LNDS has reinforced my desire to continue in this field and to seek opportunities that allow for personal and professional growth.
Rewarding Experience and Future Aspirations
What have you learned about the work environment at LNDS?
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is: it is okay to make mistakes. The pedagogy at LNDS is very understanding and supportive. When you make an error, the focus is on learning and improvement rather than criticism. This approach has helped me gain confidence and improve my skills significantly.
What advice would you give to other students or individuals considering an internship at LNDS?
I highly recommend it. The work environment at LNDS is welcoming, and everyone is eager to help. You never feel like you are just a trainee; you are treated as a valued team member. The flexibility in work hours and the supportive atmosphere make LNDS a great place to learn and grow.
If given the opportunity, I would return without hesitation. I still need to improve my English, but I am willing to work on that to be a part of LNDS again.
Thank you, Coline, for sharing your internship experience at LNDS. Your journey highlights the essence of our internship program – providing meaningful projects, fostering both personal and professional growth, and creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. This story is just one of many at LNDS, where each individual’s journey contributes to our collective narrative. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from our diverse team!