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Inspiring story

My road to an exciting internship

Published online: 24.08.2020

Gustavo had clear plans when he arrived in Denmark – however, he quickly realised that he lacked knowledge of and experience in the Danish job market. Here, the Young Professionals in Denmark programme helped him.

Inspiring story

My road to an exciting internship

Published online: 24.08.2020

Gustavo had clear plans when he arrived in Denmark – however, he quickly realised that he lacked knowledge of and experience in the Danish job market. Here, the Young Professionals in Denmark programme helped him.

About Gustavo Matarazzo

  • Nationality: Argentinian/Spanish
  • Study programme: Energy Engineering, Wind Power Systems at AAU in Aalborg
  • Semester: 9th semester

How my plans were disrupted

My story is that of a man who arrived in Denmark to gain knowledge on wind power. I had clear plans on my stay at the AAU: First year studying followed by an internship and a Master thesis in a Danish company. However, the objective was not easy to reach because of my inexperience in the Danish job market and the COVID-19 outbreak.

Eventually, the day came when I had my internship agreement signed and the amount of effort I had made paid off. I will be doing my Internship at KK Wind Solutions, helping to develop the best power converters for wind turbines.

 

What I gained from Young Professionals in Denmark

The Young Professionals in Denmark programme was the cornerstone of my journey. The programme is offered during the welcoming days to every new international AAU student.

During the programme, you learn how to write a CV or a cover letter that matches what Danish companies expect. Furthermore, you learn about the Danish labour market and about the Danes as a society.

Gustavo Matarazzo

In my case, these 2 last points were key to decide that Denmark was a very good place for my professional career and personal experience.

 

How I searched for internships

My internship search began in job portals such as Jobindex or Graduateland. It was not effective, but I could write down some relevant company names which I started to follow weekly.

From the YPD programme, I learnt that it is important to know what the companies are looking for, even if that is not interns. Thus, you get to know the skills you need to perfect and relevant contact information where to send unsolicited applications.

 

How I got my internship

Opportunities are everywhere. Yes, especially in Denmark! Finally, some of my unsolicited applications got a positive response.

During the interviews, I think 2 aspects are significant: Show motivation and be proactive when tasks and challenges are discussed.

Gustavo Matarazzo

I said opportunities are everywhere, and that´s also my story: One of my offers was by an examiner after an oral exam!

So, my final recommendations: Apply for the Young Professionals in Denmark programme, keep strong and seek for excellence in every task you do!

About Young Professionals in Denmark

Is it your goal to stay in Denmark after graduation? Young Professionals in Denmark might just be the programme for you!

Through the course of 1 year you will gain insight into the Danish labour market and working culture, meet Danish employers and learn how to land a full-time job in Denmark after graduating.

Read about Young Professionals in Denmark