Paid internships are becoming an excellent opportunity for young professionals to gain invaluable experience. Today, we spoke with Nurym Bekzat, a first-year master’s student at the Faculty of Chemistry, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. Last year, Bekzat successfully applied for a paid internship and joined the team at LUKOIL. He shared his experiences, challenges, and impressions from working at the plant.
– Bekzat, how did you learn about the internship competition, and what motivated you to participate?
– At the beginning of my fourth year, my academic advisor suggested I complete the practical part of my thesis at LUKOIL. In March 2024, the company’s HR manager, Sergey Barbashov, and my laboratory supervisor recommended that I take part in the “Perspektiva” competition. This unique project allows students to undertake a paid internship at the plant after graduation. I was motivated by the desire to prove to myself that I could succeed through hard work. My family consists mainly of lawyers, and relatives work in the railway sector, but I have been interested in chemistry since childhood, participating in Olympiads. I wanted to build a career in petrochemistry and be independent without burdening my parents with employment concerns.
– Tell us about your internship: what tasks did you perform?
– I started work in July 2024. Initially, I completed safety training, after which my supervisor gave me a tour of the production sites where I would be working. During the first three months, I worked in the oil production section, learning about the preparation of concentrates and thickeners. Thanks to my colleagues, I quickly adapted. Currently, I am working in the final product finishing section, gaining even more practical experience. I am grateful to my colleagues, especially the senior shift operators, who always helped and taught me despite my mistakes. They are not just mentors but real friends.
– What new skills have you gained during the internship?
– Over these six months, I gained invaluable experience. Everything I studied at university finally came to life in practice. It’s an incredible feeling to be trusted with real work. I learned to operate advanced equipment, studied the composition of lubricants, and understood the subtleties of production processes. My mentors – Artem Ignatenko, Vasiliy Gorbun, and Chief Technologist Nurzhan Zhanturganov – played a crucial role. They not only shared knowledge but also inspired me by example. Now, combining my master’s studies with work, I better understand the processes discussed in lectures.
– Which qualities helped you succeed in the competition and internship?
– First and foremost – honesty. I didn’t try to appear perfect; I simply demonstrated my real skills. The first stage was easy since we were diploma students of the company, but I found completing all the psychological tests interesting, as it helped me understand my strengths and weaknesses. During the interview, I answered calmly and honestly, which I think also played a role. It helped me establish a connection with the company representatives and show my readiness to learn.
– What impressed you the most at the plant?
– Almost everything! The automation of processes, the scale of the plant – it was all new to me. I was particularly amazed by the modern equipment and technological installations. I’ve been interested in computers since childhood, and now I have the opportunity to work with automated systems. I was also pleasantly surprised by the corporate culture: convenient routes for employees, good food, and a friendly atmosphere. This makes work even more comfortable.
– What advice would you give to students who want to participate in the next competition?
– The most important thing is to be honest during the interview. One of the managers you speak with may become your future supervisor. Don’t be afraid to try your skills and seize every opportunity. Even a small start can turn into a major chance that changes your life. This competition is open not only to petrochemical students but also to marketers, economists, lawyers, and other specialists. Employers are looking for experience, and this is a great opportunity to gain it from scratch.
– What would you like to say to the professors who supported your growth?
– I am deeply grateful to Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, especially the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis, and Petrochemistry under Ermek Aubakirov. Special thanks to my academic advisor Kainaubek Toshtay, who recognized my potential and supported me in all my endeavors. He is a true professional and a mentor in every sense. With such guidance, any motivated student can achieve great heights!
Fatima KANAPIEVA,
Acting Associate Professor, Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis, and Petrochemistry
