Dina Octavia Eirumkuy
Dual training in Germany
Cook
1. Why did you choose this training??
I’m curious about the culinary world, which is something new for me, plus I want to gain experience abroad. This is of course very useful for improving my German language skills. I’m interested in training in this field also because I want to develop myself further and later contribute to developing the culinary and tourist fields in my home region Maluku, which has enormous potential.
2. How did you prepare? And how was the application process?
After completing my undergraduate studies in German at the Pattimura University in Ambon, I was interested in trying something new. At that time, an agency representative visited the campus and introduced me to the training program. In addition to mental and cultural preparation (e.g., for the German working culture), it is necessary to speak German to communicate at work and during school classes.
The representative supported my application for training. After receiving a training contract, I immediately arranged an appointment with the German Embassy in Jakarta for the visa application procedure. Once my visa application was approved, I got ready for the departure date. The agency paid for the flight tickets in advance and then later deducted the cost from our salaries on a monthly basis.
3. What personal and professional requirements do you think are important for this occupation?
I think that knowledge of German (at least B1) plays a central role when it comes to successfully completing the training program in Germany. Apart from that, adaptability, perseverance, and the ability to cooperate are essential in view of Germany’s work culture compared to that of Indonesia. Basic knowledge of gastronomy and cuisine is required to become a cook. Speed is also highly valued in this occupation, as customer satisfaction is a priority.
4. What are your task responsibilities?
I work in the kitchen, prepare the breakfast buffet for the hotel guests, cater to their needs to the end of breakfast; and then clean up. I work 8 hours every day from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Another task is serving as a waitress, taking orders and communicating with the guests. As a cook I not only have to have gastronomic skills but also pay attention to personal hygiene and hygiene in the workplace. I’m also responsible for keeping track of the amount of available food and ordering to meet the needs of the hotel guests.
5. What tasks do you enjoy most and why?
The job I enjoy most is working in service, where I have many opportunities to communicate directly with the guests. It makes me happy when guests are satisfied with the service we offer.
6. What do you learn in the vocational school? How often do you go there?
While we spend a lot of time practicing in the hotel, in the vocational training school we focus more on theory. In the kitchen we learn different procedures, such as hand washing and techniques for using knives, but we also learn about the nutrient content of food ingredients and everything that’s important to become a cook. After two weeks of work in our respective companies, we spend a week (Monday to Friday) in the Rostock District (LRO) vocational school.
7. What tips do you have for Indonesians interested in this training?
- I recommend hard work and never giving up if you are seriously interested in seeking training. There is always a way forward for those who are willing to learn and work hard.
- German lessons, via language courses and independently with learning videos (YouTube channels or other media).
- If you think your German skills are not good enough, you can first take part in the au pair program for a year to improve your language skills and then continue your training.
- You can pay for an agency to help you apply for a training position. You can also try it yourself by researching the internet for information about the training and searching for a training place on your own.
8. And after the training? What professional goals do you have?
After three years of training to be a cook, I plan to add another year of training in hotel management. This would give me two certificates for the two career fields. After that I plan to work for a few years in the hotel where I am currently doing my training before returning to Indonesia, where I want to set up my own business.