Ms. Nahida Heydarova, from Azerbaijan, Mykolas Romeris University - Purchase order administrator

My name is Nahida Heydarova, and I'm from Azerbaijan, one of the Caucasus' most beautiful countries. I'm a logistics management MBA student at MRU in Lithuania. Last year I won the Erasmus scholarship and continued the second term of my program in Brescia, Italy. Furthermore, I hold a bachelor's and master's degree in transport engineering from Azerbaijan Technical University.

I started my career as an intern at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan, where I later assumed the role of lead consultant in the department of transport policies. Due to my passion for logistics management and continuous self-development, I left my job there to pursue an education in Europe. I volunteered in charity organizations in Azerbaijan. I enjoy performing yoga and teaching yoga to the elderly.

2. Why did you decide to take the Erasmus + internship opportunity? Why did you choose Slovakia?

I visited Bratislava several years ago and was fascinated by its beauty. As well as the architectural beauty, I enjoyed the friendly people and hospitality. Once I returned from my trip, I researched this country extensively and came to love it even more. Slovakia is a multicultural country offering many opportunities - several companies such as Biosynth s.r.o. operate in Slovakia which matches my interests. Having the internship opportunity in a country you love was a dream come true.

3. What were your main responsibilities and tasks while you were on the traineeship?

My main responsibilities are designed to provide me the opportunity to gain practical knowledge, learn and develop. The majority of my work involves creating and managing purchase orders in SAP, working with suppliers to make sure shipments are on schedule, and interacting frequently with other departments.

4. Did you learn anything new in your field? Tell us bit more about your acquired skills and competencies.

This experience gave me a whole new perspective on my work experience. I improved my interpersonal skills while learning more about the technical parts of my job. Additionally, I enjoyed learning new cultures from people I met at my new job.

5. What was the most beneficial part of your work?

My colleagues were one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job; their positive attitude let me forget that I was a foreigner.

In addition, my circle of friends has expanded. I met a diverse group of interns from various countries and cultures. I also had the opportunity to travel to neighboring countries.

The most rewarding part of my Erasmus+internship experience was receiving a job offer from my company, which provides me the opportunity to work in the country I love.

6. What would you say about Slovakia? Have you noticed any cultural differences between Slovakia and your country?

Slovakia has the largest number of castles and chateaux. These are a few interesting facts about Slovakia that surprised me:

1.     Working hours- While Slovaks begin work as early as 7 or 8 a.m., most office hours in my country begin at 9 a.m.

2.     Shops - Other fascinating information include the fact that unlike my country shops here are closed on weekends and holidays.

8. How did Covid influence your life during the internship? Pros and cons?

I got my full vaccination here and didn't have any complications with Covid.

9. Would you like to recommend anything to the newcomers?

Don't think too much... just take advantage of this great opportunity.

This opportunity provides you with valuable life skills and international experience that will assist you in your personal, professional, and academic development and help you succeed in the modern world. This experience gives you a new desire to take a different approach to tasks, to live every opportunity to the fullest.