Nine weeks at sea – the lessons you can’t learn in a classroom

In a unique summer internship, Norwegian University of Science and Technology student Cornelia Benjaminsen spent nine weeks onboard the MV Balzani, a KCC CLEANBU vessel sailing between Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, and Tasmania. The experience provided her with a firsthand perspective on life at sea and the shipping industry.

One of the most significant lessons Cornelia learned was the interconnectivity of all aspects onboard a ship. She observed firsthand how everything worked together as one unit, a concept that is difficult to grasp through textbooks alone. As part of her internship, she participated in various tasks, including cleaning a fuel oil purifier and working in the engine room. These experiences gave her a tangible understanding of how the ship operates.

Cornelia also emphasized the importance of considering the end user when designing solutions and making decisions onboard. She noted that even small decisions, such as the type of broom to order, can significantly impact those using the equipment. Additionally, she was surprised by the variety of working environments vessels encounter globally.

While it may seem that modern ships are fully automated, Cornelia witnessed ports where materials are still handled manually, highlighting the need for ships to adapt to different port conditions.

To maximize her learning, Cornelia stressed the importance of curiosity and initiative. She believed that actively participating, asking questions, and demonstrating interest were crucial to fully benefiting from such an experience. One of her favorite moments was joining the crew in troubleshooting a long-standing issue with an auxiliary engine. This hands-on experience allowed her to witness the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills possessed by experienced seafarers.

Cornelia also commended the professionalism of the crew and the strong safety culture aboard the MV Balzani. Before joining the vessel, she did not fully appreciate the extent of safety measures in place at sea. However, her nine weeks onboard left her with a much different impression. She marveled at the crew's commitment to adhering to safety protocols and procedures, which created a secure and supportive environment during her stay.

Reflecting on her internship, Cornelia highly recommends the experience to other students. She noted that no other setting could provide such an in-depth understanding of the shipping industry. After witnessing the dedication and hard work of the crew, she feels motivated to apply herself even more in her academic pursuits.