Hey there, my name is Maida Šabović, and I’m here to share the transformative journey that unfolded during my time with the Zoran Djindjic Internship Programme of German Business for the Countries of the Western Balkans. I am a recent graduate in Food Technology from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Little did I know a year ago how profoundly my life would be altered by the opportunities presented through the Zoran Djindjic Internship Programme of German Business.
Discovering the internship opportunity online felt like a stroke of luck. Eager for chances to explore the world, there was no hesitation in applying. The entire Internship Programme of German Business, from the application process to interviews and beyond, provided a profound learning experience that I’m certain will prove valuable in the future. Despite the initial concern, stepping into the unknown and proving my capabilities turned out to be incredibly rewarding.
I embarked on a six-month internship at DIL, The German Institute of Food Technology, a well-aligned opportunity that complements my professional focus on sustainability within the food industry. The internship at DIL proved to be an ideal fit, operating in research areas encompassing food safety, authenticity, structure and functionality, and sustainability. The majority of my responsibilities revolved around life cycle assessment in the food data department. As a newcomer to both the topic and the research department, the initial challenges were significant. However, with time and the assistance of my colleagues, I successfully tackled every task.

Beyond the professional aspects, DIL stands out as an international company with a diverse team of colleagues from different parts of the world. The inclusive and appreciative atmosphere fostered by my team significantly enriched my experience. Their generosity in sharing experiences and knowledge proved to be invaluable for my future plans. The close bond and friendship developed through company events, team-building activities, and especially within my department, has been a source of immense enjoyment. Getting to know my colleagues, listening to their stories, and building connections for life has added a profound layer to my overall experience at DIL.
Osnabrück, a small student city where I resided during my internship, became a second home away from home. Living alongside two incredible girls greatly enhanced my overall experience, and our shared enthusiasm for music has laid the groundwork for future plans to attend concerts featuring a German band they introduced me to.

However, the true essence of this experience lies in the people – the extraordinary individuals I met through the Zoran Djindjic Internship Programme of German Business. Each scholarship holder, though unique, shared a common thread that facilitated effortless connections. These individuals, now cherished friends, made the six months a chapter of support, growth, and warmth. The sense of belonging to a community was a beautiful aspect of this generation. Trips, visits, FaceTime calls, and team-building activities strengthened the bonds of our newfound family. The project team played a major role, transforming potential challenges into opportunities and making the overall experience more enriching.

In reflection, I consider myself privileged to have grown alongside these amazing individuals. Life in Germany, with its diverse tapestry, added layers of richness to our shared journey. Although the complete story isn’t detailed here, the experiences were extraordinary, and lasting friendships crafted a unique narrative.
As this chapter concludes, I extend gratitude for the opportunity to share these snippets. I wholeheartedly invite each reader to embark on this heartwarming journey of personal growth, surrounded by the comforting embrace of warmth and the joy of forging new connections. It’s a path filled with moments that resonate like cherished memories, creating a tapestry of experiences that will surely bring a smile to your face. So, take a step forward with courage, and let the journey unfold, weaving stories that become an integral part of your life’s narrative.
Maida Sabovic, generation 2023