Natascha Lenk is studying for a dual bachelor's degree in logistics at HWG LU, but her training company Primafrio S.L. is based in Murcia, Spain. Natascha Lenk tells us in an interview how she manages to combine studying and training across borders.
Why did you decide to take part in the dual study program in logistics?
Natascha Lenk: Before I started my dual study program, I completed a two-year apprenticeship in transport and logistics services at FEDA Madrid, a German vocational school abroad. The dual study program at HWG LU gives me the opportunity to continue my practical training at Primafrio S.L. in Murcia and at the same time deepen the knowledge I have already acquired.
What does a typical practical phase look like for you?
Primafrio is a family business with a fleet of 2,200 trucks, making it the largest refrigerated transport company in Spain and one of the most important in Europe. Germany is one of the most important markets for Primafrio. The focus of the practical blocks is on the commercial sector. This allows me to use and constantly improve my language skills on a daily basis by communicating with both foreign customers and Spanish colleagues.
What are your tasks?
In addition to administrative tasks, I have my own customer base that I look after. I am also responsible for preparing the ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) for cross-border shipments from England and support the commercial management in the evaluation and preparation of tenders.
At Primafrio, you are fully integrated as part of the team from day one. You are highly valued as a team member and you realize that the company has a lot of trust in its students. I particularly like the fact that everyone really looks after me when I have questions or problems. I feel very well looked after and supported.
How does studying remotely work?
Normally, I would fly to Ludwigshafen for the theory lessons and attend the events there. However, since the outbreak of Covid-19, all lectures are currently taking place via Zoom at , so I can join in from Spain. I'm always happy when I fly to Germany and see my family and friends again, but in Murcia I feel like I'm in my second home. In Murcia, I live in a shared flat with the other Primafrio trainees. We do a lot at the weekends and discover the many beautiful places around Murcia.
Time flies by. Now the second semester is already starting and it feels like the first day of practical training was only a few weeks ago.
Thank you very much for the interview.
Interview: Britta Käufer
HWG LU signed an international cooperation agreement with FEDA Madrid, the German vocational school abroad where Natascha Lenk completed her training, at at the beginning of May. Read more...
