In my current role, I have little to do with chemical research, but of course my studies still help me enormously in explaining our products to our customers and supporting them in their use. Business topics such as production costs, supply chains and prices are also no longer foreign concepts to me.

In my view, the most important qualities are therefore definitely curiosity and a willingness to learn something new every day—not from books, but above all from colleagues and employees. Working with international teams also requires an excellent command of English and an “antenna” for intercultural communication. Flexibility, the ability to take criticism and courage are all part of my day-to-day work.

Although I no longer draw heavily on my chemistry textbook knowledge in my day-to-day work, my professional background helps me assess projects and opportunities for success more effectively in many situations. In my view, it is the combination of my studies and professional experience to date that helps me with my current responsibilities. Studying teaches concepts and promotes critical thinking and self-motivation. In addition, you gain initial international experience during study-abroad semesters and, as a supervisor, acquire your first leadership skills by the time you undertake a PhD at the latest. After starting your career, you then apply this knowledge in practice.

Much of it may initially seem obsolete in the workplace, but both professionally and personally, your studies lay the foundations for a successful career: anyone who masters a chemistry degree can also approach the challenges of working life with confidence.