My Dual Study Programme at the DHBW and Mercedes-Benz.io

With so many possibilities — whether it's work and travel, a voluntary social year, or heading straight to university — making the right choice can feel overwhelming. And if you decide to pursue higher education, there’s the added challenge of figuring out exactly what you want to study. This decision can be especially daunting for many teenagers.

In this article, I want to share my journey as a dual student at Mercedes-Benz.io and a few things I wish someone had told me before I started.

So first of all: Hi! My name is Michelle, and I am a dual student at MB.io. My programme is called Digital Business Management, which is a Bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on the digital management of companies and organizations.

I began my studies in September, starting with a one-month internship, followed by three months at university. Before diving into the details, let me explain why I attended university for only three months. A dual study programme combines theoretical education with practical work experience. Like a traditional degree programme, I attend university courses and work towards completing my Bachelor's degree. However, as a dual student, I also work for a company alongside my studies. In my case, that company is Mercedes-Benz.io. I applied directly to MB.io for this programme, and I’m thrilled to be part of the team now.

Essentially, I alternate between university and working at MB.io every three months. The rotation schedule can vary depending on the programme. For example, I apply what I learn about finance and economics at university to real projects and tasks at MB.io.

Unique Challenges and the Need for Mentorship

There are a few key points that are important to understand but are often overlooked when considering a dual study programme.

Being part of a dual study programme at Mercedes-Benz.io comes with its own set of pressures. The company has high expectations because they’re investing in us, and I definitely feel that. I’m not just focused on my studies; I’m also striving to meet the company’s standards. While there is some support available, I believe there could be more, which would benefit dual students like me even further. The transition from high school to balancing both work and academic expectations has been a significant adjustment.

As the first dual student coming directly from high school, I navigated my journey without a dedicated mentor. I believe that introducing a mentorship programme could offer great benefits to future participants. Having someone experienced from DHBW to guide new students could enhance their experience and learning outcomes, making it easier to get started and succeed in the programme.

Why I Chose a Dual Study Programme

Over time, I’ve found my footing and started to embrace the challenges, seeing them as opportunities to learn and grow.

Here are the main reasons I decided to pursue a dual study programme:

1. Real-World Experience: As a dual student, you get to see the inner workings of a company while still a student. This experience can be invaluable later when you’ve completed your degree. For example, you’ll already be familiar with the company’s structure, environment, projects, and colleagues. Initially, you might feel a bit lost in the business world, but once you start understanding how things work, not only does it get easier, but it also builds your self-confidence.
2. Financial Stability: Perhaps the most well-known reason for choosing a dual study programme is the financial aspect. You get paid for both the time you spend working at the company and the time you spend at university. Learning how to manage money at a young age can be incredibly beneficial in the future.
3. Fixed Study Duration: Another advantage is that in a dual study programme, you have a fixed study duration. From the start, you know exactly when you’ll be done. You also work and learn in small groups, which increases concentration and fosters a sense of community where everyone supports each other.

Final Thoughts: Is a Dual Study Programme Right for You?

In conclusion, I would advise you to think carefully about whether you’re prepared to invest significant time and energy into a dual study programme, but also consider the benefits you’ll gain. The choice is yours, but I would be thrilled to have a fellow student join me next semester at MB.io.

Overall, I’m extremely pleased with my studies and my choice of Mercedes-Benz.io as my company. I benefit from unique advantages like the option to work from home, enjoying breakfast at work, and experiencing very flexible working hours. The support I receive for my scientific projects is excellent, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to study in such an innovative and supportive environment.

Thank you, Mercedes-Benz.io, for providing these wonderful opportunities and for playing a significant role in my professional and academic journey.