Graduate interviews
01/08/2025In the 'After graduation' series, graduates talk about their current jobs and tasks, give tips on starting a career and show different perspectives after graduation. We recently interviewed Nicolas, a maths graduate: 'In a suit in an insurance office or in a bank - neither my family and friends nor I saw my professional future there.' Maths and railways. But how? Nicolas explains in the interview (in German).
Nicolas studied maths at the University of Würzburg. During his studies, he often asked himself what direction his professional career would take. During an internship at Bosch Rexroth, he gained his first insights into the field of agile software development and was able to gain valuable experience for his current role as a Subject Matter Expert at Deutsche Bahn.
In the role of business analyst for automatic timetable design, he acts as an interface between developers and timetable designers, setting the course for successful communication. He is responsible for the specification of concrete technical requirements, the execution of manual tests and technical acceptance tests. Analytical thinking and knowledge of algorithms are essential here.
As a railway enthusiast and number cruncher, it was particularly important for Nicolas to combine his personal interests and knowledge from his studies. He owes his direct entry to a tip from a friend, on whose advice he applied for the advertised position. His enthusiasm and wide-ranging knowledge of the railway system were not the least of the reasons why he won out over other applicants.
Nicolas also has some tips: Exchange ideas with those close to you. Recognising and reflecting on your own potential based on how you perceive yourself and others and drawing conclusions from the intersection are all part of the application process. Basic technical knowledge is important for every job, but even more essential is the willingness and interest to develop it.
You can find Nicolas' full interview here (in German).
