A conversation with former intern Sascha Daanen
She started as a Front Office intern in February 2023 and is now shining within our organisation as a Human Resource Officer. How has her career developed so far? And what advice would she like to give to (future) interns? You can read all about it in this interview:
“I started here as an intern in February 2023. At the time, I was studying Allround Hospitality Management at ROC Amsterdam. I was in my final module and looking for an internship. I followed a BBL programme, which means one day at school and four days working. The final module focused on events and congresses, which is how I ended up at Beurs van Berlage.”
How did you find Beurs van Berlage at the time?
“Mainly through Google and partly through social media. I then contacted Anouk (HR Manager at Beurs van Berlage, ed.) and was invited for an interview quite quickly. We were both very enthusiastic from the start. During that conversation, we agreed that I would do my internship at the Front Office, as this fitted well with the final module of my studies.”
What was most important for you to learn during your internship?
“Welcoming guests and being the first face of the organisation. I saw that as a great challenge, just like working alongside different departments. I really enjoyed getting to know all parts of the organisation in this way.”
What did the period after graduating look like for you?
“After completing my internship, I obtained my diploma and was offered a contract at the Front Office. Everything went very smoothly. I really enjoyed working here and felt very comfortable, so I wanted to stay. Later, I briefly worked for another employer, as I was curious to explore other opportunities within the hospitality industry.
Eventually, that role did not align with my ambitions. I also missed the energy and team spirit I had experienced at Beurs van Berlage. Fortunately, the Front Office team missed me too, and I was able to return. During that period, I also worked a number of shifts as a doorman, which was a nice change of pace.”
How did you end up working in HR?
“At a certain point, a vacancy at HR was shared on the Beursbengel (our internal communication platform, ed.). I thought: why not give it a try? It looked like a real challenge and an opportunity to learn a lot. At the same time, it felt like a major career switch, but one that turned out very well.
What I enjoy is the variety in my workdays: from welcoming new colleagues to handling HR-related matters. I am also currently following a part-time course, which helps me feel more confident in this field.”
What would you like to pass on to (future) interns?
It doesn’t matter which level of education you are following. If you truly want something, you will get there. Don’t feel insecure – you deserve to be seen as well. There are always opportunities to keep developing yourself, even after completing your studies, as long as you believe in yourself.