Edoardo Gottardi Zamperla interned with StahlTech, a multinational company based in Slovakia, where he enhanced his intercultural communication skills and contributed to management projects in a diverse, multicultural, and multilingual environment.
Why did you choose this internship?
I chose this internship because it provided a chance to obtain real-world experience in a small multinational organization, which matched my passion for working in cross-cultural settings. The company is headquartered in western Slovakia, where the local population is comprised of a mix of ethnic Slovaks, Czechs, and Hungarians. It primarily subcontracts for German and Austrian clients and is led by an Italian CEO. I was interested in the intersection of communication and management, so StahlTech's emphasis on industrial production within a multi-ethnic region of Europe really caught my interest. I also wanted to improve my professional abilities in a practical environment, learning about the dynamics of a workplace where varied teams work together.
What kind of work did you do throughout your internship experience?
During my internship, I helped with pricing estimates, material selection, and the design of prototype sheet metal products. In order to improve accessibility and communication with a more international audience, I worked closely with the IT team to update and modernize the company's website material in several languages. Moreover, I had to work with teams from different departments, provide data analysis to management, and adjust to changing project requirements. Through these tasks, I was able to improve my technical skills with computer-aided design (CAD) software and expand my knowledge of project management in manufacturing.
How did your Applied Humanities major coursework help prepare you for the internship experience?
My academic experience in the Applied Humanities gave me a solid base in problem-solving, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication. These skills were extremely valuable during my internship. Courses like PAH 372 (Intercultural Competence) and PAH 383 (Pre-Internship) grew my understanding of the human side of business, the workplace environment, and intercultural relations. This foundation has taught me how to approach challenges with emotional intelligence and an open mind.
How was the internship related to your Applied Humanities degree?
The internship related strongly to my Applied Humanities degree, as it required applying communication and management skills in a more practical, real-world setting. The teamwork and project presentation skills I developed through humanities projects translated directly to my work at StahlTech. Working in a diverse, international company allowed me to practice the cross-cultural communication techniques and project management practices I studied. My time at the company really brought my academic learning to life.
What is the impact of your internship experience?
My internship deepened my understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and flexibility in a multinational corporate environment. Additionally, it allowed me to gain and develop new technical skills in areas where I had no prior experience. My confidence in seeking positions that require critical thinking and communication has greatly increased as a result of this professional exposure. This experience has also strengthened my ability to adapt quickly, making me more prepared to contribute in dynamic and fast-paced work environments.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
Although this internship allowed me to grow and acquire valuable experience and transferable skills, it also helped to clarify my future career direction. The intercultural environment and focus on communication at StahlTech strongly appealed to me; however, working in the industrial metallurgic production sector made me realize that I want to expand my professional path beyond just industrial production and subcontracting. The experience has helped me realize that the industries and roles that align with my passions and strengths lie more in human-centered and agricultural fields, relating to my Plant Studies emphasis in the Applied Humanities program.
What advice do you have for other students as they search for and begin their internship?
For students searching for new internships, I recommend focusing on roles that broadly align with both your career interests and personal values, but without limiting yourself to what you imagine as the "perfect fit." When starting an internship, approach it with an open mind, even if you do not see yourself working in that organization or sector long-term. In my case, I realized that the sector may not be a permanent part of my future, yet the skills and experience I gained are invaluable and will undoubtedly continue to serve me in my career journey.