Valuable connections for students and companies – Energy at the Networking Event
The Networking Event on April 10 brought together more than 70 companies and 700 students from Rotterdam Business School. It was an afternoon full of energy, inspiration, and opportunities for both students and organizations. During the event, our students had the chance to actively engage with various organizations seeking young talent for internships, graduation projects, and practical assignments. The wide range of national and international companies created valuable matches between education and the professional field.
Companies see the added value of working with students
For many companies, collaborating with students is more than just filling an internship position. Companies themselves emphasize the value that Rotterdam Business School students can bring.
A representative from Nedelko highlighted the contribution of interns:
“An intern provides an extra pair of eyes for things we may have become blind to. We do our work, but when an intern comes in and starts asking questions, it makes us look at our work differently.”
Interns bring a fresh perspective to the company, not only by contributing but also by driving innovation and reflection. Riwal recognizes that interns sometimes come up with excellent ideas they would not have thought of themselves. Erasmus MC also sees the value of students:
“I am a strong advocate of always having interns on board. It is very valuable. They often have great ideas and contribute to daily operations — they are truly indispensable.”
Once again, the Networking Event has proven the value of collaboration between students and companies. We look forward to future events and the many opportunities they will bring.
The Networking Event as the starting point of the conversation
For many companies, collaboration with students goes beyond simply providing an internship. At companies such as Nedelko, students are the starting point of a broader conversation. Their interaction with students has led to a fresh look at their own approach to internships.
“We now want to view our company differently to better align with the needs of interns. At the Networking Event, we can talk directly with students and hear what they need, what they want to research, and what they want to do.”
By engaging with students, companies gain better insight into student needs and can adapt their internship offerings accordingly. This ensures both companies and students benefit to the fullest.
“We want to map out a path where interns can grow into a permanent position with us,” says Nedelko. “By being here, we’re also rethinking how to make this possible.”
First-time participants eager for more
Like Unicef, Nedelko attended the Networking Event for the first time. Riwal is also relatively new to the event:
“The first time we participated, we actually found our current intern here, so the event has worked out really well for us.”
For Riwal, the international character of the event is crucial:
“As an international company, that’s exactly what we are looking for. We see ourselves actively searching for International Business students who already have experience with international thinking and working. That fits our company better.”
Visibility is also highly valued by companies at such events. Erasmus MC explained:
“I notice that many students don’t initially think of Erasmus MC as an internship option. That’s why it’s important that we are present here with our name. This way, students see that Erasmus MC is not only about healthcare, but also offers internships in supporting roles. It’s a reminder for students.”
Unicef shared a similar experience:
“We find it valuable to reach students in this way. Many students don’t know that you can do an internship with an NGO like Unicef. Students are curious about the organization and ask good questions. The direct conversations are very nice, and students aren’t afraid to approach us.”
More than just finding interns
Alongside new companies, long-term partners of Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences also traditionally participate in the Networking Event. Erasmus MC, Erasmus Talent, B&S, and others underlined the importance of structural cooperation.
Erasmus MC shared:
“We have been to the Networking Event several times and have a strong collaboration with the university. We always provide research assignments for students, in which lecturers are also involved. This cooperation has been ongoing for years, and we are eager to continue.”
Collaboration with Rotterdam Business School offers more than just finding interns. It creates opportunities for long-term talent development and innovation within organizations. Today, several companies even had RBS alumni present, who started as students, joined companies after graduation, and now returned to the event as internship supervisors.
At Erasmus Talent, structural collaboration with students is equally important. They are involved in, among other things, the semester 6 programme on AI.
“We are not here to sell, but to build brand awareness and to help students. Students bring energy, creativity, and a young mindset that inspires us.”
Collaborating with Rotterdam Business School
At Rotterdam Business School, we believe in the power of strategic and sustainable partnerships. Starting in September, a variety of minors and practice-oriented projects will launch again. Organizations that want to contribute to innovation, talent development, and societal progress are warmly invited.
At RBS, we are open to innovative collaboration ideas. Whether it’s about training future employees or leveraging the knowledge our students already possess, we are curious to explore the possibilities!
👉 Let’s explore the opportunities together. Contact us at rbs-connect@hr.nl and become part of the FutureMakers community.
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