Dual study program in times of pandemic - a report from the practical phase

I’m Anna-Lena, a dual study program student at SPIRIT/21 and I’m currently at the end of my fourth practical phase. This phase is mainly characterized by the longer period of six months, during which I had the chance to delve deeper into topics and take on certain tasks independently. The focus of this practical phase was for me to gain as many different experiences as possible in order to find out which activities I am good at and which I enjoy in order to recognize where I can go after my studies.

Before the start of this practical phase, I had planned to accompany a project manager on a customer project. Unfortunately, the situation changed due to the corona pandemic, so that a customer project was no longer possible. Nevertheless, a solution was found for me to deal with the topic of project management in this practical phase. The “New Intranet” project started right at the beginning, which I was able to support and manage independently. The project was completed in time for the end of my practical phase. I was also involved in three transition projects in the Managed Service area and in the internal project “New Matrix42 ticket system” as support / PMO. I was also involved in many different topics in various departments, such as event planning and marketing.

Despite the pandemic situation, this gave me the chance to successfully complete my practical assignment.

What was particularly unusual was that virtually the entire company was working from home at the beginning and end of the practical phase, so I wasn’t able to coordinate with any colleagues in person. There were still various meetings with my supervisor and the training team, but they all took place virtually. That was a huge change for me at first. Nevertheless, the communication and agreements with all my supervisors worked very well. It was particularly important for me not to lose social contact. That’s why my training mentor in the team has a daily meeting every morning, where the focus is on social contact and small talk. I also had virtual coffee breaks with some of my colleagues so that the personal exchange didn’t get lost. The exchange meetings in the training group were also held virtually.

At the beginning, I found it difficult to do without personal contact. I used to pop into my colleagues’ offices every now and then - but that was no longer possible. Most appointments were only made by telephone. I found it difficult to always correctly assess the people I was talking to. Now, however, many appointments take place with the camera switched on - I personally find that much better. Nevertheless, I’m still looking forward to going back to the office from time to time to talk to my colleagues in person.

Even though the planned project didn’t take place, we found a great alternative. This practical assignment was actually the best and most interesting I’ve had so far. I learned a lot, had a lot of fun and was able to help shape and drive forward many topics myself.