Environmental engineering is a very future-oriented degree program – especially against the background of discussions about more sustainability, environmental protection, energy saving and renewable energies.

By choosing the field of environmental engineering you have decided for a study programme that is very adaptable. How did this choice of degree program come about?
Environmental engineering is a very future-oriented degree program – especially against the background of discussions about more sustainability, environmental protection, energy saving and renewable energies. It is exactly this point where graduates in environmental engineering start – we analyse the causes and try to develop technical solutions to limit impacts on the environment or prevent them from arising in the first place. Even now, during my internship, I have realised that I made the right choice and I am looking forward to being able to use my knowledge to actively contribute to challenges such as climate change or the plastic flood.

You were born in Iran, right? How did you come to Germany and how long have you lived here already? What opportunities do you see for your professional future?
I came to Germany in 2018 and have been living in Deggendorf ever since. Many students from other countries are drawn to Germany to study. Germany is considered a safe country with good economic conditions. It's especially good to live in smaller towns or in the countryside. You can usually combine theory and practice well during your studies. Many universities also have close contact with local companies. Even during your studies, you can test your talents and skills in practice, which makes it easier for you to start your future career.

You are currently doing your mandatory internship at STREICHER. What are the main topics you are working on?
I am doing my internship in the HSE-Q department – that means health, safety, environmental protection an quality. First, I studied numerous standards in environmental and quality management to get a good basis for my tasks.

My field of activity includes

• Preparation of operating instructions for equipment/machinery and hazardous substances in order to continuously update and develop our management system
• Site inspections and support in carrying out audits
• Analysis of environmental impacts in different business areas
• Support in the maintenance of the energy management system, e.g. preparation of data analyses for more sustainability

And what do you like most about it?
I have been very kindly received from the beginning and my colleagues have trained me extensively and continue to support me very much. In addition however, I have a lot of freedom doing my ob. And if I have any questions, I can always turn to my colleagues or the head of department. It is really a very pleasant working atmosphere and I feel very comfortable here.

After the end of your mandatory internship, you will remain with us as a working student. What will your range of tasks look like in the coming months and what further steps are planned?
I gladly accepted the opportunity to work as a student trainee. This way, I can further deepen the basic knowledge I acquired here during my internship and also apply it in other areas. I am looking forward to the new challenges and will continue to approach my tasks with great commitment. I think that's what distinguishes me in my private life as well - that I face unknown
situations and go my way.