Back to Square One

In my school’s curriculum, the last step to obtaining my engineering degree is a 6-month internship. So that’s what I am currently looking for. This job hunting process is frustrating, especially online and from a distance.

My experience applying in this manner is one of being ghosted for months until getting that official declining email. Personalising a cover letter and a CV in this context feels pointless, since in return you get a general “no-reply” email three months later saying, sorry but no.

80% of my interviews have come through in-person meetings, referrals, and follow-ups. That is how, at the start of November last year, I got into Safran in Belgium. It makes sense: if recruiters are drowning in CVs, they'd much rather get a feel for the person before even considering the profile.

That being said, I have been making do without it. I have had two interviews this September, and both were promising. The two companies were interested and interesting, yet we could not line up on starting dates or precise roles. With these behind me, we’re back to zero. Rather refreshing, even though it feels like I am falling behind somehow.

That is the difficulty in all of this – avoiding comparison with others. If I compare myself to friends who have finished classes and have a job, then I would be a miserable failure without an income.

Yet, if I compare my situation to last year, I should be over the moon. Within a month, I have had more interviews than I had over the whole semester last year. Furthermore, I have experiences that help me better understand the type of work I like and, most importantly, do not like doing.

I would like to stay in Europe for this next internship. I am not there myself currently, so it is rather hard to show up at events and present myself. Instead, I will try to get on a call with engineers in various companies to get to know the craft and create some connections here and there.

This Week's Suggestions:

🎶 "Feel Again" by Netsky with Hannah Boleyn:

So if you do not know Netsky, he is a Belgian drum and bass legend who has made some worldwide hits like Rio. Anyway, this recent release of his proves that someone who is 15+ years in the game can still offer novelty, with layers of experienced production.

That is all I have for this week!