This week we spoke to Dana Karletshofer, who wrote an excellent bachelor thesis on how China secures its lead in the battery industry and how Europe can stay competitive and independent. She graduated from the Asian Studies & Management China program at HTWG Hochschule Konstanz – Technik, Wirtschaft und Gestaltung in February 2025, and is currently working at Daimler Buses GmbH, Neu-Ulmas an Intern in CSP Market Management & Consulting. Starting in September, Dana will pursue a master degree at Antai College of Economics & Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University. 

About the company: 

Daimler Buses GmbHis one of the world’s leading manufacturers of buses and coaches, offering a wide portfolio under the brands Mercedes-Benz and Setra. As part of the Daimler Truck Group, the company focuses on innovative, sustainable mobility solutions – from urban and intercity buses to premium coaches, along with digital services and comprehensive after-sales support.

With production and service locations across the globe, Neu-Ulm plays a central role in both manufacturing and after-sales operations. The Spare Parts division in Neu-Ulm is a key hub for ensuring the global availability of genuine parts. It supports bus operators worldwide through efficient logistics, inventory management, and process optimization – helping to keep fleets running safely and reliably.

What are your main tasks and why did you apply for this position?

During my internship, I supported various internal initiatives ranging from event planning to data analysis. My tasks included organizing and moderating team events, coordinating intern job shadowing, and leading a visual photo wall project. I was also involved in preparing templates and materials for international events and workshops. In addition, I worked on data visualization using Excel and Think-Cell and helped prepare regular team reports and planning tools.

There are several reasons why I applied for this position. I wanted to make productive use of the time before starting my Master's studies at 上海交通大学 in China by gaining further practical experience in the automotive industry. During a previous internship at a Chinese company, I developed a strong interest in the electric vehicle sector, particularly in connection with battery manufacturers. This experience inspired me to deepen my understanding by gaining insights into the German market for comparison. I also explored this topic in my Bachelor's thesis, which focused on the differences between the Chinese and German battery industries. Joining Daimler – a globally renowned automotive company – provided the ideal opportunity to broaden this perspective and build on my existing knowledge in an international and highly innovative environment.

How did you find your internship?

I discovered the internship through the Daimler career portal while specifically looking for opportunities that offered international exposure and a strong connection to strategic market topics. The position in the CSP Market Management & Consulting department at Daimler Buses immediately stood out due to its global focus and close ties to the automotive and mobility sectors—areas that align closely with both my academic background and professional interests.

Do you use Chinese in your daily work?

Unfortunately, I don’t use Chinese during my internship. The main working languages are German and English. However, this is one of the reasons why I chose to pursue my Master’s degree in China starting this September – to strengthen my language skills and deepen my understanding of the Chinese market and culture in a professional context.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during your studies?

During my studies, I developed a strong interdisciplinary skill set that combines business knowledge with regional and cultural expertise—providing a solid foundation for my further professional development. However, the year I spent in China proved to be the most valuable part of my academic journey, both professionally and personally. My exchange year not only strengthened my Mandarin language skills but also pushed me beyond my comfort zone—enhancing my adaptability, resilience, and ability to navigate unfamiliar environments with confidence. I will forever be thankful for this experience.

What are your long-term career goals?

Looking ahead, I aspire to work in an international environment where I can collaborate closely with partners or clients across cultural and geographical boundaries. Ideally, I would like to maintain a connection to China, given my academic background and personal experiences there—but I remain open to where the future will lead. What matters most to me is working in a dynamic, globally oriented setting that values cross-cultural communication and long-term relationship building.

Any advice for current or future Asian Studies & Management students or young people interested working in China?

Don’t be afraid of new situations or cultures. Every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow and become stronger. Trust in your own abilities and embrace the learning process with confidence.

What are the career prospects for graduates of the bachlor program Asian Studies & Management China at HTWG Hochschule Konstanz – Technik, Wirtschaft und Gestaltung?

This week we spoke to Besim Vergili 韦杰力 , a recent graduate of the Asian Studies & Management China program at HTWG Konstanz, currently working at IMS Gear in Taican, China as a Purchasing and Sales Intern.

About the company:

About the company: IMS Gear SE & Co. KGaA is a globally recognised leader in gear and transmission technology, headquartered in Donaueschingen, Germany. Since its foundation in 1863, the company has evolved from producing gearwheels for the local clock industry to becoming a key supplier of customised drive solutions across various sectors, including the automotive, industrial applications, medical engineering, and e-mobility industries.

IMS Gear Taicang, China

What are your main tasks and why did you apply for this position?

My primary responsibilities include tracking orders in the Production Part Approval Process, monitoring localization data, managing foreign suppliers in the Purchasing department, and conducting market research in the Sales department.

There are several reasons for my application for the internship at IMS Gear in Taicang. Considering the current market conditions, it was the most strategic decision to pursue further professional experience in China. My previous experiences across various functions, combined with my open-minded and curious nature, continue to drive me to explore new challenges and perspectives. Having worked in Sales, I developed a strong interest in experiencing the industry "from the other side," particularly from a procurement and operations standpoint.

Furthermore, a key motivation for pursuing this opportunity is the importance of the automotive industry in Germany. This internship represents an essential first step for me toward establishing a career in this vital sector.

How did you find your internship?

I first became aware of the company through the AS Dialogues faculty event which was initated and executed by Prof. Peter Franklin. I had the pleasure of engaging in an insightful conversation with Benedikt Lenhart, and Annalena Dorer , which ultimately motivated me to submit a speculative application.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to both of them for their trust and for this incredible opportunity, as well as for the continuous support and guidance throughout the entire process provided by Annalena.

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Nathalie Schneckenburger who is also an alumna from the Asian Studies and Management Program at HTWG Konstanz . Thanks to her and the internal buddy program, I was able to integrate into the company and get to know most of my colleagues much easier.

Do you use Chinese in your daily work?

The Chinese language has become a part of my working life, whether through conversations with colleagues or meetings with clients. It is challenging, but it also motivates me to develop and improve my language skills. Nevertheless, English remains the primary language of communication among colleagues.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during your studies?

Our degree programme has provided us with a broad and diverse range of knowledge to support us on our professional journey. Nevertheless, the aspect that is of the greatest importance to me is the development of intercultural competence. Engaging in conversations with people from all over the world is an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives. Language is a crucial element in this regard. No matter the language, a strong command of it is always essential for engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing experiences and gaining insights.

What are your long-term career goals?

My professional goal is to establish myself internationally and to continue growing both personally and professionally. I am dedicated to maintaining a balanced “ikigai” while always valuing life as much as possible.

Any advice for current or future Asian Studies & Management students or young people interested working in China?

Take advantage of the opportunity to experience a "different world" and embrace it. This is a way to grow personally and learn a lot.