Connections and opportunities at the internship fair

Jennifer Cakir, from the International Business program and member of the IB internship committee, supports them by safeguarding and actively nurturing IB’s network. “We want to show our partners how we can strengthen each other through different routes.” This was reflected during the IB internship fair, where more than ten partner companies came together to meet, inform, and recruit students.

Her work goes beyond organizing the fair. “I maintain long-term relationships with companies that have welcomed five to ten IB interns per year. In addition, I collect feedback from previous placements and translate that into new opportunities for students. This makes the internship fair not just a one-off event, but a visible moment within a continuous partnership process where trust and quality are central.”

The value of fresh ideas

Motion Control International (MCI), attended the fair for the first time. Emiel Timmers (Business Development Manager) immediately saw why this fair matters: “Interns bring fresh ideas in an accessible way, and we give back a lot of knowledge in return.” He emphasized that students should not limit themselves to big names. “Be open to companies you might not initially be interested in. It can positively surprise you. A successful internship truly takes shape when students discover how organizations operate in practice. With international dynamics, financial management, and cultural differences that you only learn about outside the theoretical context.”

Experience as a compass for new generations

Inez Klachmanyi (third-year IB student and intern at West Coast Supply Group) demonstrated how an unexpected encounter can grow into a concrete opportunity. “I found my current internship company WCSG thanks to last year’s fair, and this year I’m representing them here. I want to share my experiences so that others also see the possibilities. Not just for work placements but also for graduation projects.”

Exploring, connecting, and looking ahead

Student Danail Dobrev is in the final phase of his studies and works as a campus recruiter at OGD. He attended the fair to recruit graduates for potential traineeships at the company where he is currently employed. “The internship fair is about realistic and open conversations. It’s not about a sales pitch, but about understanding your opportunities.” According to him, this helps IB students make targeted choices, especially those on the verge of starting an internship or traineeship. His advice was simple and to the point: “Take this opportunity to ask questions. That’s where you gain the most.”