Graduate interview: Cornelia - Head of an adult education centre
11/16/2020After completing her studies, Cornelia now runs an adult education centre - at the age of 27! Her diverse areas of responsibility include quality management, press relations and programme planning. Her Bachelor's degree in Political and Social Studies (PSS) and her Master's degree in Educational Science prepared her perfectly for this. Cornelia has also taken advantage of many additional programmes offered by the university.
What did you study at the University of Würzburg?
I started studying here in Würzburg in 2014. I did a Bachelor's degree in Education with a minor in Political and Social Studies and a Master's degree in Educational Science with a focus on adult education.
What is your current job?
I am the director of the adult education centre in Gerolzhofen.
Which company/employer do you work for?
At the adult education centre in Gerolzhofen.
What are your responsibilities?
My tasks include quality management, press relations and programme planning.
How did you orientate yourself professionally during and after your studies?
I looked at various educational fields. On the one hand, through part-time jobs as a freelancer, as an assistant at the chair and at the adult education centre. I also worked as a freelancer. I also completed internships in early intervention, at the youth welfare office and again at the adult education centre. Various specialist conferences and additional courses and seminars at the University of Würzburg also gave me guidance. This enabled me to familiarise myself with many areas and to decide which area was right for me.
Did you make use of certain university services for career orientation (e.g. Career Centre, alumni office, mentoring programme, guest lectures, etc.)?
I attended a few events at the Career Centre, such as "Digital Communication", "Making Innovation Happen" and "Management Methods". The guest lectures organised by our chair were also always interesting. Practitioners from various pedagogical fields gave presentations here. I am now giving this lecture myself. For my work as an assistant at the chair, I also attended a tutor training course, which helped me to improve my presentation skills. I have also been able to expand my intercultural skills through the programmes offered by GSiK. I attended a number of lectures and seminars here and gained a certificate.
Which skills from your studies are helpful or essential for your current job?
Independence, familiarisation with new subject areas, structured work, project management and communication skills.
How did you acquire additional skills (e.g. workshops and seminars, internships, part-time jobs, clubs, voluntary work, traineeships, further training, etc.)?
Through internships, part-time jobs, networking and additional voluntary seminars.
Do you have any general tips for professional orientation and career planning?
You should simply be open to new things, gain as much experience as possible and thus discover the variety of opportunities. Constant dialogue with fellow students and collaborations are very important. You should set yourself goals and try to achieve them.
What do you recommend to students who want to work in your industry or profession?
You should always reflect on yourself, adopt an independent way of working, network and prioritise. You should also practise your communication skills and plan ahead.
