Interview
Why did you choose the QUSH degree programme at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences?
After finishing school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study. As my best friend wanted to study at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, I joined her and initially opted for Bioengineering. During enrolment, I was told that I could also enrol in a second Degree programme. I flicked through the course catalogue and came across the QUSH degree programme. It sounded like a very unusual degree programme to me, and I made my enrolment more out of curiosity than because I really wanted to study it.
I soon realised that bioengineering involved a lot of lab work, which I hadn’t particularly enjoyed at school. As the lab component of QUSH is much smaller, I actually changed my mind the day before the semester started and decided to give QUSH a go. To be honest, at the start of the first semester I couldn’t really imagine what to expect from this Degree programme or what career opportunities it might lead to. But over time I gained a better understanding of it and was determined to continue on this path.
What was the topic of your Bachelor’s thesis?
I wrote my Bachelor’s thesis in collaboration with a clinic in Düsseldorf where I worked during my studies. The clinic wasn’t ISO 9001 certified, so I carried out audits and drew up a list of measures to achieve certification.
What happened next for you professionally after graduating in 2023?
Most QUSH students nearing graduation have no concerns about starting their careers. Companies actively court them. A phrase I often heard from myself and my friends during job interviews was: “You’re exactly who we’re looking for!” This is because the fields of occupational safety, quality and the environment are often interlinked in practice. You often see QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment) or EHS (Environment, Health and Safety) roles advertised. Companies are looking for people who can bring extensive knowledge of these fields to the table. Consequently, I had no trouble at all finding a job. Even before I finished my degree, I received several offers and accepted one of them.
What is your typical working day like?
I work as an EHS specialist for a corporate group and am the supervisor for five German sites in the areas of occupational safety, environmental protection and health and safety. My day-to-day work is always exciting, as I frequently travel to the various sites, which offer different services. As for the day-to-day itself: you arrive at the company, usually put on your high-visibility vest, hard hat and safety shoes straight away, then do your rounds and chat directly with colleagues on site. On top of that, we exchange ideas in teams across sites and countries, which means I’m always getting new inspiration.
What do you particularly like about your job?
What I particularly like about my work is the good mix of office work and being on the production floor and in the warehouse. I especially appreciate the excellent support I receive and the opportunities for further development. I can put what I’ve learnt into practice and receive great support from my manager. My colleagues are also really great, and we work together very harmoniously. The salary is attractive too, which is an added bonus.
What skills did you acquire during your studies that you can now put to good use in your job?
Analytical thinking and conflict management are essential in our areas of work, as we are regularly confronted with conflict situations, whether involving workplace accidents or breaches of environmental regulations. In such situations, it is extremely helpful that we were taught fundamental conflict management skills during our studies. How do I interact with my colleagues? How can I assert myself as a member of the management team? And above all: how do I communicate in a solution-oriented way? I am very grateful that these topics were given sufficient attention during my studies.
What advice would you give to current or future students?
Don’t be afraid to tackle the science subjects! Don’t let yourself be intimidated if you’re sitting in a physics or chemistry lecture or if you mess up a Written examination. There are tutorials, and the professors are happy to help with any questions you might have. Don’t forget that studying isn’t everything. Enjoy your student life and make the most of the opportunities campus life has to offer.
In three words, how would you describe Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences?
Colourful, lively and friendly.
Date of interview: April 2024