In this interview, Eric speaks openly about his transition from studying computer science to training as an IT specialist with a focus on data and process analysis. He explains why practical benefits, responsibility and real impact are crucial to him – and how modern technologies and a deep understanding of processes are shaping his career path.
Eric, you dropped out of your computer science degree. What was the reason for that?
Personally, I only do things in my life if they give me a sense of purpose and meaning. And that is a basic attitude that I find myself applying very often in many decisions in my life. During my studies, I often felt like I was just one of many students learning a lot of theory and taking exams from time to time. I lacked the feeling of making a difference in the world. That's why I decided to pursue vocational training, because it allows me to take on direct responsibility, especially in smaller companies.
Why did you decide to specialise in data and process analysis?
Personally, I only do things in my life if they give me a sense of purpose and meaning. And that is a basic attitude that I find myself applying very often in many decisions in my life. During my studies, I often felt like I was just one of many students learning a lot of theory and taking exams from time to time. I lacked the feeling of making a difference in the world. That's why I decided to pursue vocational training, because it allows me to take on direct responsibility, especially in smaller companies.
What distinguishes the training programme from your university experience?
The biggest difference is the awareness that everything I learn in the company is also directly relevant to my profession. During my studies, I often questioned some of the knowledge because it lacked practical relevance. And I think that actively practising the profession simply cannot be replaced by practical exercises in a lecture hall or classroom.
„The decision to switch to training was exactly the right one for me. I feel the responsibility and relevance that I originally wanted.“
You talk a lot about practical relevance and the knowledge that goes with it. What exactly do you mean by that?
By that I mean personal development and building up expertise. Learning how building blocks are connected and interlinked, but also thinking in a process-oriented way. This includes not only learning tools and programming languages, but above all understanding business logic and business processes, i.e. learning real skills from professional life.
How does this knowledge help you in your professional career?
I believe that this knowledge gives me a very good foundation for the future. Understanding and developing solutions also brings me closer to my goal of one day being able to advise companies as an expert. That's why I think it's a very important step for my professional career.
How do you find working with the latest cloud-based technologies and tools?
Well, I always like to say: modern problems need modern solutions. I have also experienced the difference between older tools and newer ones myself. The amount of effort saved is truly enormous. Cloud-based tools make it possible to work in a much more organised manner. And organisation is extremely important in customer projects and a huge advantage if you master it. That is why it is a decisive factor in the success of our projects.
Many students are afraid that vocational training is less valuable than a university degree. What is your view on this today?
I think the decision to switch to vocational training depends heavily on the employer and on yourself. But in practical terms, the economy is constantly changing and practical experience is becoming increasingly important. Those who mainly know only theory must first learn how to develop concrete solutions. This has to be made up for after graduation. In vocational training, I experience the development of the market first-hand and thus actively prepare myself for the future.
What is your initial conclusion about your training so far?
The decision to switch to training was exactly the right one for me. I feel the responsibility and relevance that I originally wanted. I also find it surprising how much I have already learned during my training, especially how important business integration is for the market. Without business integration, many, if not all, large companies would simply not function. And we are working on solutions that connect processes in some international companies. Our direct influence on their success also shows me how important our work is. That's why I find the apprenticeship extremely exciting, motivating and valuable.
Great, then I wish you every success with your further training and thank you very much for the interview!
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