Exploring the professional world: Lessons i have learned at my workplace.

Abstract

University internships are crucial for academic and professional development. In this work, I reflect on my experiences during this period, exploring lessons learned and challenges overcome. From the classroom to the field, every moment has been an opportunity to grow and discover the professional world. This work represents the closing of an academic cycle and the beginning of a new phase of professional development. My case might be a bit different from my peers since I am validating my workplace as my university internship, which has presented significant challenges for me. I am working at Servicios Logísticos Cartagena S.A.S, where we support our parent company, Katoen Natie. Katoen Natie is a multinational company of Belgian origin, primarily focused on supporting large multinational companies with the transportation and storage of their products. The mission of the company is simple: creating maximum added value. Katoen Natie achieves this by providing tailor-made, full-service logistics and engineering solutions to a key number of customers worldwide. Currently, our four offices are located in the Torre del Puerto building in Manga, with around 70 people working towards the same goal: Providing the best customer service possible. In SLC, we primarily focus on providing support to our Katoen Natie warehouses in the United States and Canada, acting as data processors—the "front line" receiving our clients' requests. To provide a bit more context, the logistics sector of the United States is advanced and complex, supported by extensive transportation infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive services. Regarding my goals when starting to work at the company, my main objective was to learn more about the logistics sector, as it has always been where I wanted to work as a professional. It is a highly competitive sector not only locally but also internationally. Additionally, I was very curious to learn about the types of systems and databases (such as SAP and PLATO) that large companies use to track all movements of their products. This kind of knowledge makes me a more well-rounded and prepared professional while enriching my resume at the same time.