Dual Study Buddies at CREMER: “With Mandy by my side, getting started was much easier”
Panatda, do you remember your first day at CREMER?
Absolutely. It wasn’t that long ago. I’ve been studying International Management as a dual study student since October 2025. That means I complete my practical phases at CREMER in Hamburg alongside my Bachelor’s program at the Hamburg School of Business Administration (HSBA). Theory and practice alternate every three months.
My first proper day at work was in January. I started in sales at CREMER OLEO – and I immediately had lots of questions: Who do I go to for what? How do I balance university and work? And many more.
That’s exactly why CREMER has the dual study buddy program. What does this role mean for you in practical terms?
It’s incredibly helpful to have a dedicated point of contact like my buddy Mandy, especially because she’s studying the same program and has faced similar challenges.
I can reach out to her anytime without hesitation. Mandy is simply there when questions come up, whether it’s about university or finding my way in day-to-day work.
“It’s really helpful to always have one dedicated contact person.”
When do you get a buddy – and how long do you stay connected?
Basically, from the start and as long as both of you are at CREMER and still studying. It’s more about “being there” when questions arise than a formal program with lots of fixed appointments.
How does it work in practice: more spontaneous, or with regular check-ins?
Spontaneous. If I have a question, I’ll send her a quick message. And because Mandy and I get along well, we also meet up regularly for lunch. That way we can talk through anything that’s come up.
What helps you most?
It makes a big difference that Mandy and I are both on the same course and are at the company and at university at the same time. I really benefit from her experience. For example, she’ll share tips on which parts of the curriculum she had to work through more independently, or how to prepare best for specific modules.
“I can really benefit from my dual study buddy’s experience.”
Why do you think the concept makes sense?
Because you settle in faster. And I have someone to turn to who is still studying too – just like me. That lowers the threshold. Sometimes the access is simply easier.
If you had to give three tips to a new dual study student, what would they be?
First: Be curious and approach people. Here at CREMER everyone is very open and friendly. You quickly feel part of the team.
Second: Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Third: At the beginning, write down people’s names and what they do. Especially at the start you meet so many colleagues and learn who is responsible for what. It helps a lot later if you’ve noted it down.
Thank you for your time, Panatda!
Dual Study Buddies at CREMER
- Direct connection: Every new dual study student has a dedicated buddy – typically a more experienced dual study student.
- Everyday support, not a rigid program: Much of the exchange happens informally. Short paths, quick questions, support on eye level.
- University boost: The program is especially helpful when buddy and dual study student are on the same degree track.
- Sharing experience: How does it work at university and in the company? Those with experience can pass on practical tips.
- Faster integration: Network and company culture become tangible more quickly when someone is at your side.