Start of the new training year: Four perspectives, one goal

What is it like to start your career at NürnbergMesse – whether through an apprenticeship or a dual study program? At the start of the training program on September 1, four young professionals provided insights into their everyday lives and shared their experiences and expectations. Two of them are just starting out, while two are already well into the program – and they share their tips for anyone who is just beginning.

Written by Johanna Köhler

Group photo of 16 people – nine women and seven men – in a modern interior in front of a large window with a view of greenery. Nine people are sitting on a red sofa, while the others are standing behind them. /

Lara Dänzer begins her training as an event manager

Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship at NürnbergMesse?
It has always been my dream to work in the events industry so that I can give free rein to my creative side. After four years of traveling, I now want to start a new career close to home. NürnbergMesse offers a varied apprenticeship that perfectly matches my interests and gives me a promising future.

What are your hopes for your training at NürnbergMesse?
I hope to have varied tasks in different departments, good teamwork, and a lot of fun working and learning. At the end, I want to be able to say: That was exactly the right decision.

What are you particularly looking forward to during your training?
The trade fairs themselves! The preparation, the event itself, the follow-up—I want to be right in the thick of things and gather as many impressions as possible.

A young woman with long, blonde, wavy hair wearing a white top, light brown blazer, and necklace stands in front of a large window with a building entrance. The outdoor setting shows green spaces. / — Lara is entering the world of events—with creative ideas, a passion for travel, and great anticipation for gaining practical experience at trade fairs.

Lukas Elias Hellwig begins his dual study program in business administration – trade fair, congress, and event management

Why did you decide on a dual study program – and why at NürnbergMesse?
A traditional degree program was out of the question for me – it would have been too theoretical and too far removed from the real world of trade fairs. The combination of theory and practice in the dual study program suits me perfectly. The practical experience is incredibly valuable. I'm originally from Magdeburg and deliberately chose NürnbergMesse: it's one of the largest trade fair organizers in Germany and worldwide. Here, I can get a taste of many different departments – significantly more than at smaller organizers. And right from the start, I was impressed by the open and warm corporate culture.

What are your expectations for the practical phases at the company?
I want to get to know as many departments as possible and work at as many trade fairs as possible—right on site, right in the middle of the action. I'm looking forward to exciting tasks, a good team, and, of course, having fun at work.

What are you most looking forward to during your dual studies and your time at NürnbergMesse?
Definitely the trade fairs! I want to be close to the action, help shape things, and get involved as often as possible—especially in the events team. The more I can experience and support, the better.

A young man with short blond hair, wearing a dark blue blazer and white top, stands in front of a blurred, dark greenish background. / — Lukas wants to experience the trade fair live—right in the thick of things instead of just watching from the sidelines, fully committed and curious about everything that lies ahead.

Lena Müller is starting her fourth semester of her dual study program in business administration – media and communications management

What do you particularly appreciate about NürnbergMesse as an employer?
The flexibility and the interpersonal relationships. Despite the size of the company, the atmosphere is relaxed and open. You quickly get to know your colleagues – and are taken seriously right from the start.

What do you see as the biggest advantages – and challenges – of the dual study program?
I think it's great that I can get to know so many departments in three years. I have a say in where I am assigned, gain insights into very different areas, and can find out what really suits me. The biggest challenge is commuting between Nuremberg and Ravensburg – traveling back and forth and finding a place to live isn't always easy. And the university phases are also intense: three months full of lectures, exams, and little time to catch your breath – that can be challenging.

What tips would you give to new students?
Start looking for accommodation in Ravensburg early – otherwise it can be stressful. And don't take on too much at once. Even though the program is tightly organized, you can still take time to enjoy university and student life. Not everything has to be perfect right away – sometimes it helps to tell yourself: I can do that tomorrow.

A young woman with long, light brown hair wearing a white top and white cardigan stands outdoors in front of a green, blurred background. / — Lena is in the middle of her dual study program – and has long since learned how to keep track of everything between university and everyday life at the trade fair.

Paula Betz is about to complete her dual degree in business administration – media and communications management and is currently writing her bachelor's thesis

What makes your everyday work at NürnbergMesse special?
The variety! We work in different teams, take on special tasks such as managing the Instagram account or planning events – and are always well connected with other trainees and students.

How does NürnbergMesse support you in your professional development?
We gain a lot of insights—even into areas that are not directly related to our degree program. There are also training courses, practical information, and seminars. For example, I am active in the JAV (youth and trainee representative committee) and am allowed to attend conferences. All of this counts toward personal and professional development. NürnbergMesse really offers us trainees and students many opportunities to think outside the box and develop ourselves further.

What tips would you give to new trainees and students?
Be open, network, and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. If something interests you, ask about it! NürnbergMesse is a place where you can try things out.

A young woman with long, light brown, wavy hair wearing a black blazer, white top, and gold necklace stands outdoors in front of a green, blurred background. / — Paula is about to graduate—and shows how much you can achieve at NürnbergMesse if you get involved.

Author

Johanna Köhler

Online Editing // PR Trainee