Laura:

I was part of the project with the IT service company Atos. We conducted a strategic case analysis of the competitiveness of Atos cloud solutions regarding their sustainability. To be specific, we analyzed Atos decarbonization offerings in comparison to competitors. The project went smoothly, and our results were really valued and are further used within Atos.

Nina:

Before I applied for PREMIUM I was doubting whether this program would be something for me or if my competencies would be sufficient. Now I can say, it was the most encouraging and supporting opportunity I could have wished for. Together with my great team and the guidance of our amazing mentor and coach the uniqueness of every team member brought us to our final product. I have not only gained great new friendships, I have also learned to trust my personal as well as professional skills and follow my own authentic path.

Giorgia:

First of all, PREMIUM meant for me team-working: being part of an enlarged family coming from different background and countries! It also allowed me to expand my professional skills by working for a client. Those five months were short but hectic: getting to you know your team and create the synergy to work together; endeavoring to meet the expectations of your client but also understand what was possible and what was not; last but not least, being ready to change and adjust your plans because the unexpectable can always happen!

Tosca:

I was a member of the Netherlands Red Cross (NLRC) PREMIUM team. With our team we sustained the NLRC to modify its approach towards a more evidence-based strategy. As a first step we elaborated a definition of an evidence-based approach, after which we developed an interview scheme which would help the organisation to analyse its practices. The interdisciplinary nature of the team stimulated creative thinking. All in all, I would describe the experience as challenging and inspiring!

Tani:

For me, PREMIUM was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences that I had as a student. My team worked with Provincie Limburg, and we designed a handbook aimed at evaluating the social impact of a rural development programme (LEADER). Behind our project, there were many zoom calls, meetings with different stakeholders, as well as hours of research and brainstorming, but also fun activities such as team buildings and energizing moments. Additionally, the workshops and coaching sessions always kept us on the right track, giving us a boost of energy and tips on how to be more productive. The end result definitely exceeded our expectations, and I am confident that PREMIUM was the first step in my future career.

Eleni:

PREMIUM has been an exciting and adventurous challenge for my academic and professional development as part of the “Porta Mosana” project with the name “Gate to the World”. From submitting a CV and a cover letter, to conducting interviews, to group observation and mix and match events with real clients and teammates, PREMIUM has been the perfect professional journey. I had the chance to meet students from different places and discuss various ideas from different perspectives. Finally, I was offered the ground to evolve in a team, develop respect, and strengthen my skills through constant feedback, aiming at achieving the best team outcome.

Laura:

Another important aspect of my PREMIUM experience were the various workshops that were offered to us, the coaching, and mentoring. Despite my PREMIUM experience having been fully online due to the current circumstances, this indeed was a unique life-long learning experience.

Nina:

The workshop offer that was made available for us was very diverse! It was not only a chance to grow personally and professionally but also a great opportunity to meet other PREMIUM students. I am excited to continue implementing and integrating the learned techniques and contents in the future.

Giorgia:

The workshops are really valuable. I was eager to attend all of them, which I almost did (missed just one, which I highly regret!). Unfortunately, those were conducted online because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the trainers tried their best to adapt to the situation and provide us with all the necessary instruments to to expand your professional and personal skills. Then, as I always say, it is up to you to make the best out of it!

Tosca:

The PREMIUM workshops were really motivating, in such a way that I really looked forward to all of these sessions. Therefore I participated in almost all of them and enjoyed every session! During the workshops, we discussed topics that are not necessary touched upon during one’s studies, however useful for one’s professional career. For this reason, I believe that they prepare you well for entering the labour market. 100% recommended!

Tania:

We had to attend 6 different workshops: 3 mandatory and 3 electives. Whereas the mandatory ones were focused on skills that we should have as team members, and which helped us have a good team dynamic, the elective workshops offered us the possibility to focus on our self-development and discover how to better manage our time, how to negotiate contracts or how to be more productive, skills that were very much needed during the PREMIUM project.

Eleni:

PREMIUM offers its members the opportunity to extend their knowledge and skills in several aspects including team building, communication, and self-organization. The high quality workshops were interactive and inspiring, urging us to discover more about our strengths and weaknesses. Although all workshops were very helpful and valuable, I enjoyed ‘Time Management’ most, as it helped me make better use of my time, prioritize, and make decisions throughout the busy and productive semester.

Laura:

I had three personal sessions with the coach of our team. The coaching was very valuable to assess personal progress and set goals. The coaching is what you make out of it – but if used right, it is an excellent way to set goals and to achieve them!

Nina:

For me personally, the possibility to have a personal coach on my side was one of the most valuable opportunities! The additional support and powerful exchange during the program provided the perfect guidance and environment to grow. The sessions gave me more confidence and trust, which I am sure, I will carry with me in the long term!

Giorgia:

“I am eager to start this coaching journey with you guys but it is up to you to trust me and maximize the benefits from the coaching sessions!” – This was what my coach told me and my team the first day we met, and believe me, there was no reason to repeat it me twice! I took all the three sessions seriously and keen to improve my weak points. I bared myself of all the fears I had and spoke honestly about what I wanted to improve, learn, realize. It was a full growth experience!

Tosca:

It was valuable for my professional development as it helped me to set personal goals and discuss my progress with a coach. The coaching session facilitated a continuous focus on personal growth. Besides, I learned more about my strengths and weaknesses in life in general, and specifically in a professional context.

Tania:

The coaching sessions were definitely the highlight of my personal development journey with PREMIUM since I got the chance to work on some new skills and also seek advice whenever needed. Having a first professional experience and the possibility to improve myself along the way was a unique opportunity, and I tried to get the best out of it!

Eleni:

Having a coach at your side to discuss personal and professional matters of your development is the ideal support during an overwhelming semester. The coach asks the right questions to help you reflect on your behavior and issues within the team and in your everyday life. Therefore, I believe that coaching is insightful and beneficial to the whole project execution, but also to the later stages of one’s professional life.