Emma's internship story at Metso
Finding the Internship
Scrolling through LinkedIn and Tampere University's job portal, Jobteaser, I stumbled upon the intriguing opportunity as Project Coordinator Summer Trainee at Metso Corporation (formerly Metso Outotec). The application process was a whirlwind, taking just a month from submission to acceptance. Looking back, I wish I’d known more about the company’s culture and the specifics of the role, but sometimes diving into the unknown leads to the best experiences!
Why Metso Corporation?
Choosing this internship was a no-brainer. Located right in Tampere and part of a huge, global corporation, it was a golden opportunity to expand my project management skills. I was eager to immerse myself in the dynamic environment of a multinational company and see how my academic background in project management would translate in the real world.
A Day in the Life
My days were a hybrid mix of virtual and in-office experiences. Twice a week, I’d head to the office, enjoying the blend of independent tasks and collaborative meetings. With a team spread across the globe, I found myself hopping on calls with colleagues from India to Australia, discussing projects and getting personal check-ins.
Coffee breaks with fellow interns became my daily ritual, offering a sense of camaraderie and a chance to unwind. Metso also organized activities exclusively for us summer trainees, fostering a sense of belonging and fun amidst the busy work schedule.
Skills and Growth
Throughout my internship, three key skills stood out: patience, a deeper understanding of global corporate operations, and enhanced Excel prowess. The patience to navigate a large organization’s bureaucracy, the insight into global operations, and the technical skill of managing complex data in Excel have been invaluable takeaways.
Memorable Moments
One of my most cherished experiences was the daily international interactions. Whether it was a casual call from a colleague in India or a project discussion with a team in Australia, each conversation enriched my perspective and made me feel connected to a larger, global community.
Reflections and Career Impact
This internship helped me understand what motivates me - not just the role, but the mission and values of a company. Working in such a vast organization has helped me understand my preferences for future career paths.
My Advice to You
To those contemplating a similar internship: go for it! The breadth of learning and the array of benefits are immense. It's a window into understanding your own career aspirations and gaining practical skills.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely! Despite the occasional need for patience, especially when waiting for responses from international teams, the experience is enriching. It's a fantastic way to discern your desired career path and to gain a real-world understanding of what it's like to work in a large, multinational corporation.