Marvin

Marvin from Germany travelled to Sweden to undertake a five-week Erasmus+ internship at Billig Teknik in Lund. Back home, Marvin leads a busy life, as he is studying to become an industrial clerk while simultaneously completing a three-year apprenticeship as an industrial management assistant at a large coffee company. 

Please tell us about your workplace, Billig Teknik, and what you did there.

My workplace, Billig Teknik, is a large retailer specialising in laptops, mobile phones, spare parts, and a variety of technical gadgets. The company’s core business centres on refurbishing used laptops, with the aim of offering renewed technology at affordable prices.

During my time at Billig Teknik, I was involved in a wide range of tasks, primarily related to warehousing and stock control. I was responsible for handling incoming parcels and pallets, checking delivery notes, and verifying that all shipments were correct. Once confirmed, I entered the quantities into Billig Teknik’s inventory and retail management system and either assigned the products to an existing shelf location or created a new one if the item had previously been out of stock.

Due to internal restructuring, I also assisted in reorganising nearly the entire warehouse layout. This included dismantling old shelving and constructing new units in a more efficient arrangement. As a result, a large number of goods had to be relocated both physically and digitally. This process required a high level of organisation and attention to detail, as accurate labelling and data transfer were essential for the packaging department to locate products at all times.

Overall, I greatly enjoyed my time at Billig Teknik.

What inspired you to participate in the Erasmus+ internship programme?

In recent years, I have been keen to explore ways of combining personal development with contributing to the wider community. As a result, I completed a voluntary social year and remain actively involved in voluntary work. However, all of these experiences took place in my home country, and I wanted to find an opportunity abroad.

Through Erasmus+, I discovered the possibility to put my current vocational training in Germany into practice. The chance to live and work in another country while continuing to receive support from my home institution was a perfect setup. 

Reflecting on your time in Sweden, do you feel that the experience helped you grow as a person? If so, how?

Yes, absolutely. I had never worked abroad before. In many ways, it felt like living independently for the first time. 

Being able to live and work abroad, communicate in a different language, and navigate occasional language barriers, while also managing everyday responsibilities such as planning, organising, and maintaining a structured routine, pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Balancing work with exploring the country further strengthened my independence and resilience and showed me that personal growth is most effective when one fully embraces and enjoys the experience.

Do you feel that undertaking an Erasmus+ internship abroad is something everyone should try?

I would say yes, particularly for those who enjoy travelling, connecting with people from different cultures, and seeking new professional challenges. An international internship helps to develop a wide range of soft skills and contributes significantly to personal growth.

For those who may initially feel hesitant, such an experience can be even more valuable. 

From a professional perspective, Erasmus+ internships place participants at the forefront of international collaboration and cultural understanding. In an increasingly globalised world, the ability to confidently navigate international business environments as a result of such experiences is more relevant and valuable than ever.