A Fire That Breaks the Ice
Soon after trainee Maruša Markus brought her car from home to the Czech Republic, it caught fire due to a malfunction. An unpleasant experience? Definitely, but also a great story that helps the young Slovenian break the ice and she fitted in well at Škoda Auto. She told us what she treats herself to at restaurants here – unlike back home – and what surprised her about the Czech Republic.
I Love that Tartare is Available All Year Round
This Formula 1 fan started at the carmaker a year ago as a trainee. During her tour of the company, the GS department took notice of her. “What I appreciate most is how many opportunities Škoda Auto offers its people. Thanks to the Trainee programme, I gained a great deal of experience right at the start of my career. I wouldn’t have had that in Slovenia.”
At a new address
Maruša Markus
GS Assistant – Corporate & Product Strategy
Why Škoda Auto?
I appreciate the many opportunities the company offers. I see it as a great place to build a solid professional foundation.
I still can’t believe it
Honestly, the only thing that really surprised me in the Czech Republic was the beer culture. The amount of beer Czechs drink – and not just men – is truly impressive. I still can’t quite believe it unless I see it with my own eyes.
I thought Slovenians drank a lot, but we’re no match for the Czechs.
My wildest experience in the Czech Republic? I didn’t bring my car here until a few months later, and because of a malfunction, it caught fire on the motorway to Prague. People didn’t believe me until I showed them photos, and it turned into an icebreaker story.
A small gesture makes a big difference
I really appreciate people who try to include international colleagues. Little things are enough, like switching to English or inviting someone to join the group. Moments like these have a big impact on how quickly someone feels at home.
I feel at home abroad. I’d already been thinking about the Trainee programme while studying on Erasmus.
Driving in the Czech Republic is wild
If I had to describe the Czech driving style in one word, I’d say “bold”. Of course, that’s an exaggeration, but the roads in Slovenia really are calmer.
Czech drivers must believe in reincarnation. Otherwise, I can’t explain their courage. And I was on the Formula Student team.
Every day can be a holiday
I love that tartare is readily available in the Czech Republic all year round. Back home, it’s more of a festive dish for Christmas. Here, I treat myself to it much more often. And I also love fried cheese.
Every two months, my colleagues from the Balkan countries and I organise a Balkan dinner. We usually head to Prague for some čevapčiči.
I love matcha, so I go to Jun Matcha Bar. As for brunch, I keep a list on Google Maps of places I want to visit.