Beyond the unexpected. At ZUID, we raise the bar. This also applies to the talent of tomorrow that we recruit. Through our student agency, ZUID Talent, we give them the chance to take the initiative during their work placement. During interviews, these students convince us that they understand that simply providing the expected solution isn’t enough to really make a difference.
One of those students is Finn Walrecht. Finn did an internship at ZUID during the last year of his SPECO Sports Communication studies at the Fontys. He is not a student anymore and works as a Digital Marketer at Techonomy. He takes some time to look back on his internship. What's it like when you get to run your own student agency? And more importantly: how does it benefit you? Oh, and is it fun to be an intern at ZUID?
About the atmosphere at ZUID
Finn, first tell us a little bit more about the atmosphere at ZUID. How would you describe the culture?
“ZUID doesn't feel like a standard agency. Rather like a close-knit family. Everyone at ZUID is there to support you. I also immediately associate ZUID with enjoyment. Both during and after work, there is room to have a laugh.”
Thinking about your internship, which projects or results are you proud of?
“SThat was, after all, the assignment we were entrusted with the ZUID Talent team: to devise a campaign concept for SKIP. SKIP is a regional project aimed at preventing and reducing drug use among young people. My fellow interns came up with the ‘Nothing’s too crazy’ campaign concept, which we then brought to life with the team. The TikTok videos on ZUID Talent’s old TikTok account, which went viral, were also a highlight!"
About learning moments
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your internship? How did that shape you?
“Well, I remember being called by our CEO Mathieu and Sales Director Timo one morning. They told me: “Finn, we have a meeting scheduled with an organisation in fifteen minutes. We want to take you along because we think you're a good fit for the organisation and their issue." I started reading about the organisation quickly in the remaining minutes. After that, I went into the meeting with very little preparation. That was a very educational experience. And we ended up acquiring that customer too!”
ZUID's pay-off and mantra is “Beyond the Unexpected”. When did you really go beyond the unexpected to take a project to the next level?
“I went the extra mile for my thesis. I visited each client personally to conduct an interview. That was definitely worth it, because it ultimately allowed me to get the right information to succeed.”
Is there a lesson learned, a specific tool, or a certain mindset from your internship period that is still useful in your working life today?
“Haha well, at three student festivals, I did street interviews for SKIP as a presenter. I had to approach students and ask them questions about their drug use. I had never done this before, I really had to go completely out of my comfort zone. But after the first time, I had pushed past the initial nerves. I've learned a lot from this and I still benefit from this experience.”
Tips for future ZUID Talents
Finally: do you have any advice for interns who will work at ZUID Talent?
“I would emphasise that it is really a great opportunity. Make the most of it! Seize all opportunities and ask the experienced specialists at ZUID your questions.”
Want to do an internship at ZUID Talent, just like Finn? Fontys Communication students are eligible, ask your internship supervisor for details. Non-Fontys communication students can get get in touch and tell us why you're a great fit!
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Beyond the unexpected
