Blog Iwan

The second year began with the third study phase. This was almost entirely face-to-face, but we also had online days. Although I had to commute 200 kilometers almost every day, in contrast to the previous study phases, I really enjoyed this study phase as I found the e-government, process management and database modules very interesting.

The second practical phase was in decentralized IT. I was able to take part in many meetings with various authorities and watch how a new project is planned and managed. I also got to write and evaluate reports and decrees for the first time.

Then the project phase began. In a group from the course, we developed a concept and an alpha version for a social intranet for the district town of Olpe. It was a bit bumpy at the beginning as we didn't allow enough time for familiarization. After that, however, everything went very well and everyone did their tasks well. We presented the results at the end of the project.

In the third practical phase, the administrative internship, I worked in two departments. First I was in asset accounting, then in organizational management. I had a lot of fun and variety in both departments, as colleagues from all areas helped me get to grips with my work.

The introductory week was packed with exciting events, including the swearing-in ceremony at the State Office for Central Police Services (LZPD) NRW and the presentation of the subject area for my first practical phase. I was then given a laptop for my studies at the NRW University of Applied Sciences for Police and Public Administration (HSPV) in Cologne.

Due to the pandemic, the first two stages of my studies took place almost entirely online. This saved me a lot of time as I didn't have to commute to Cologne. As we did a lot of group work online, I was able to get to know all the people on the course better. In the programming module, we programmed a project in small groups as an additional exam, which I particularly enjoyed.

Shortly before the exams, I started studying in a panic because I always started revising a bit late. But the lectures prepared us well for the exams.

Then the eagerly awaited first practical phase in central IT began. The practical phase was planned in such a way that I was able to work in all areas of the department. I was warmly welcomed into the team and trained well. As we were responsible for the entire authority, I was able to get to know all the departments and properties.