PROS

• This destination is primarily a professional opportunity. HERRENKNECHT is looking for new talent for various professional profiles and offers the opportunity to complete an Erasmus+ internship to complete or complement your studies, with the possibility of a contract upon completion.
• The company is located in a small town on the banks of the Rhine River, SCHWANAU. Click on the name to research it, launch the Google icon to see what the streets are like, and explore the area and surrounding areas.
• The profiles they are looking for are primarily industrial (mechanics, welding, mechatronics, electricity, etc.). Here's the link to the company so you can learn more: HERRENKNECTH.
   

• A financial grant of €1,000 per month.
• In-person German course at the company.
• Travel pass (you must have an International Student Card for this).
• Help with finding accommodation (costs borne by the student). Apartments typically cost around €500 per month for single accommodation.

• Schwanau is very close to many incredible tourist destinations, in addition to being in the heart of the Black Forest. The German culture and work ethic are enviable; they are not as rigid and strict as they seem; they always make sure to have a positive environment and leave stress behind in their daily lives.

CONS

• SCHWANAU is not a large capital, it lacks the services of a city, and it doesn't have an Erasmus+ community. It is a very quiet area with few leisure options, but it does have transportation and plenty of natural areas. For travel, it borders France (Strasbourg is very close) and almost Switzerland.
• You have to be clear that this destination is A PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITY.
• It's difficult to make friends, especially if you don't speak the language well. Most people speak English, but you won't feel integrated until you can communicate in German.

ABOUT ACCOMMODATION...

"I stayed in a hotel for the first 10 days, in a very spacious room with a kitchen and balcony. The rest of the time I stayed in a studio apartment, and since it was on the ground floor, I could enjoy the fresh air on the porch. The accommodation was subsidized by the company for three months."

IF YOU COME TO HERRENKNECHT, YOU HAVE TO VISIT...

• Fribourg.
• The Black Forest.
• Strasbourg.
• Switzerland (Basel, Zurich...)
• Lake Constance, Stuttgart.

A GOOD PLACE TO EAT / DRINK...

• Hannemanns Eck (Döner), in Ottenheim.
• Mondo Pizza&Pasta, in Allmansweier.
• Cappuccino Bar, in Lahr (Drinks).

TIPS IF YOU'RE GOING TO SCHWANAU

• Don't be intimidated by the apparent seriousness of the Germans; communicate without fear because they're happy to help you.
• Take advantage of the location to visit the countless beautiful places in the area.

USEFUL LINKS...