Tereza Prošková is a student of the Bachelor’s program in Media Studies at the Metropolitan University in Prague, and at the same time, she is completing an HR internship at the Institute of Computer Science of the Czech Academy of Sciences. This year, she is preparing for the completion of her studies, which she is approaching with great diligence. How does she manage to balance her studies with practical experience, and what does she think about internships in general? Find out in this interview.
What are your key responsibilities?
My tasks change every week, but I mostly help the HR staff with whatever they currently need. The fact that the work is so diverse is something I really enjoy.
Your field of study is quite different from your internship focus, isn’t it?
Yes, it is. I enjoy my studies and like reading about various media topics, but I wanted to combine it with something more practical, which the HR internship allowed me to do.
Have you had any previous experience with internships?
Unfortunately, no. I studied at a grammar school, so we didn’t have the opportunity to do internships, and I’m glad I can finally try it now.
Are you satisfied with your internship?
Very much. I hope they are at least a little satisfied with me too, but I definitely am. I enjoy working there and always look forward to going.
How often do you attend your internship?
Once a week. It’s very flexible, and I always arrange my schedule in advance with Ms. Ruziene, who supervises me, which suits me really well.
Did you have any concerns before starting your internship?
I did, but luckily none of them came true. I was worried that it might be challenging because it’s my first practical experience and also because my field of study is somewhat different.
Do you think the internship has helped you figure out your future career direction?
I’d love to say yes, but honestly, it has made me even more uncertain. I already had some trouble finding my path before. On one hand, I feel more confused now, but on the other, it’s great to know that there are so many options.
Was there anything that surprised you during your internship?
The initial arrangements. They were very fast and pleasant. Of course, it was formal, but also very human, and I liked that.
Final question – would you recommend internships to other students?
Definitely! I think internships are a great career opportunity. They give you a sense of self-fulfillment and the realization that you are largely shaping your own career path. Of course, with some support, but ultimately, it’s all about your own initiative and decisions.