Last October, our group travelled to Troyes in France for a week full of new impressions, international cooperation and inspiring company visits. The trip was all about internationalization, where we not only learned about entrepreneurship and technology, but also about culture and cooperation across borders.
During the week we got a look behind the scenes at various French companies. For example, we visited YEC, where we learned more about entrepreneurship and a student shared his experiences about setting up his own business. At the Université de Technologie de Troyes (UTT) we got to know the French education system and worked with French students on a Business model Canvas. In mixed groups, we came up with ideas to connect companies from Troyes and Alkmaar.
The trip was also dedicated to technology and production. We visited, among others, Brodart Packaging, where packaging for cheeses is developed, and Wepa, producer of hygiene paper such as toilet rolls and kitchen paper. Both visits gave us a good idea of how French companies deal with innovation and efficiency. We also saw examples of French precision and craftsmanship at Degoisey, a manufacturer of fine mechanical parts that are even used in jet fighters, and at Electrolux, where large industrial washing machines for hotels are made.
A highlight for many was the visit to the Champagne houses Hélène Beaugrand and Champagne Gruet. Here we found out how champagne is made from traditional, manual production to modern, large-scale automation. And of course there was also a small tasting! What we, as students, do not see as an obstacle.
In addition to all company visits, there was also room for relaxation and culture. We explored Troyes on a city tour, were officially received at the town hall and participated in a sporting water polo match with UTT students. The week ended with a short stopover in Paris, where we discovered the city in groups and visited well-known sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur and the Louvre.
The trip to Troyes and this nice group of people was nice experience with school. Different parts of the training were discussed. An experience that we will not soon forget! Made possible by the Alkmaars Exchange Committee!!
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