Hello, dear reader!
I’m Ivana Nedelkovska, thrilled to share my experience as part of the 20th generation of the Zoran Djindjic Internship Programme of German Business for the Countries of the Western Balkans. I was fortunate to undertake my internship at the DIL-German Institute of Food Technology, thanks to my background in food technology and biotechnology.
Our journey commenced on June 24th, as each selected scholarship holder eagerly awaited at the airport, packed and prepared for the upcoming six months of work, life, and exploration in Germany. In just one day, I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know 62 other scholarship holders, each of whom soon became an integral part of my journey.
At work, I learned about innovative technologies and contributed to research projects aimed at improving food production processes. Collaborating with international colleagues, I gained insights into sustainable practices and cutting-edge treatments that enhance food quality and nutritional value. For instance, one of the projects I undertook involved exploring Ohmic heating technology, a novel method with profound implications for food processing. Additionally, I conducted Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analyses to assess process sustainability, utilizing tools such as SimaPro to evaluate environmental impacts. Furthermore, I participated in their summer course, which included company visits to various companies in the food industry sector.
As the internship came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound impact it had on me. The memories we shared, and the friendships forged will forever hold a special place in my heart. I’m thrilled to continue my involvement with the Internship Programme of German Business and its regional alumni network , where I look forward to contributing to its ongoing success.
For those considering applying for this life-changing experience, I encourage you to take the leap. It’s an opportunity to grow personally and professionally, forge meaningful connections, and broaden your horizons. Trust me, the journey will be nothing short of transformative.
Ivana Nedelkovska, generation 2023
