Engineering and Management student Katarzyna did a placement at the Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany

During my internship, I trained in issues regarding trademark violation and the differences between original equipment and copied parts in the automotive industry. I was taught how to recognize counterfeit products, prepare business letters and statements, organize data, and prepare reports for management, and manuals and trainings for staff.

I visited the Opel factory where I saw the manufacturing of the new Opel Insignia. I was also instructed in the specifics of after-sales marketing and finance.

During the internship, I cooperated with international staff and took part in meetings performed not only in English but also in German. I took part in three events including the Frankfurt Auto Fair, and dealership and production events.

The Opel staff were really helpful and open. They were eager to supply any needed support and information and I received answers to all my questions. They organized trips to places of my interest and really made me feel part of the team.

My stay in Germany was a very positive experience. The German culture, people, history and heritage along with modern technology make for a fascinating experience. I visited Frankfurt, Wiesbaden, Mainz, Heidelberg and Koblenz, which were all picturesque cities with bars, coffee shops and cinemas (often showing English versions of movies).

My internship at Opel gave me my first professional experience and fundamental knowledge for my future career. I have developed international communication and IT skills, gained basic legal knowledge (IP rights, design protection, counterfeiting) and become aware of European brand protection and global security. I have become familiar with after-sales marketing, product management, retail and engineering. My internship in Germany has allowed me to improve my self-confidence and take a step into the real world.