Ms Pätzke, do you work in accounts?
Yes, in accounts receivable.

Does that suggest you’re a precise and organised person?
I’m not sure if you can tell that from that, but it’s true. Of course, that’s also a basic requirement if you work in accounts. On the one hand, when it comes to entries, they always have to balance down to the last penny – there’s no such thing as ‘almost’. And on the other hand, we have to take a whole host of tax laws into account. I think someone who’s a bit of a scatterbrain wouldn’t feel at home in accounts.

And do you feel at home?
Yes, absolutely. I enjoy working with numbers. And our team is really lovely too. What else can I say? I enjoy it and it just suits me.

Are there any tasks you particularly enjoy doing? 
I’ll have to think about that for a moment... perhaps posting the bank statements? That’s one of my daily tasks that I start my working day with – a sort of daily ritual.
 

So, Zen meditation whilst booking?
(Laughs) Well, I wouldn’t go that far. It’s a calm and focused moment. And whilst booking, I also get an immediate overview of which payments have come through and where I might need to pick up the phone again.

But nobody really likes making those sort of calls, do they?
Obviously, it’s more pleasant when everything goes to plan. But sometimes things get stuck somewhere and then you have to give a nudge to get things moving. But as a rule, they’re very pleasant conversations and I enjoy doing them.

And who gave the nudge for your dual study programme?
It came from me. After completing my training as an industrial clerk, I felt there had to be more to it. I was looking for new challenges.
 

What is the biggest challenge of a work-study programme?
There are a few things, but I think studying alongside your day job is probably the biggest challenge. You really have to be determined, because the workload is heavy.  

What does that involve? 
There are two lectures in Oelde every Saturday, and sometimes there are additional lectures on Friday evenings as well. You then have to review and consolidate this material during the week. And as you’re working during the day, studying takes place in the evenings. You really have to be motivated.

Do you receive any support from Venti Oelde?
Yes. First of all, I asked Venti whether this would even be feasible, and the management gave me the green light. That was brilliant. Furthermore, Venti Oelde covers part of the monthly fees for the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, so that my burden is largely limited to the time I invest.

So there’s probably little time left for socialising? Do you still manage to relax?
I have a horse and used to compete in tournaments quite often, but of course I don’t have time for that anymore whilst studying. These days, the time I have left is only enough for the occasional ride. I feel very at ease out in nature with my horse; that’s when I can actually relax quite well.