To foster better connections and learn about the experiences of our new colleagues during their initial months at SynTech Research Group, we interviewed three team members about their first impressions of the company.
Meet our colleagues:
Issam Melki, Field Biologist at SynTech Research in France.
Tarrah Baumgartner, Regulatory Assistant at SynTech Research in the United States.
Sabrina Holz, Technical Project Leader & Study Director at SynTech Research in Brazil.
What made a good impression on you when you started at SynTech?
Issam: What I particularly liked about SynTech Research was the pleasant work environment, as well as the support and cohesion within the team.
Tarrah: Everyone is genuine, nice and helpful.
Sabrina: Since my first day, what stood out to me was how welcoming everyone was. I was a bit anxious because it’s my first job in a private company, but I was positively surprised by how helpful and supportive the team was. I felt well received, which helped me at the beginning.
How are you settling in SynTech so far?
Issam: I have successfully completed my training and integration at SynTech.
Tarrah: I am settling in well. My coworkers got me up to speed quickly so I was able to really dig into my work not long after starting. The culture of teamwork and supporting each other made it easy to feel like I belonged as a member of the group!
Sabrina: I’m settling well. I’m really enjoying the routine and my work team, which has been very receptive. I’m still learning a lot, but I feel like I’m on the right track.
How has SynTech helped and trained you?
Issam: When I started working, I already had a strong theoretical foundation, but I lacked practical experience. SynTech provided me with the opportunity to gain this experience and offered on-the-ground support from highly experienced colleagues.
Any recommendations to newcomers?
Tarrah: Ask a lot of questions!
Sabrina: My recommendation for new people is to stay calm, things start to make sense little by little, because at the beginning there is a lot of information. It is normal to feel a little insecure at first, but here at SynTech, you can count on the support of other people, and this really helps to make the adaptation easier.
Was there a challenge that you had to face coming into the company?
Issam: Since I changed workstations, it was initially difficult to familiarize myself with the new region. However, thanks to the team’s strategy of pairing me with a colleague, I was able to overcome this challenge.
Tarrah: The biggest challenge was just learning new systems because they are company specific and you can’t google your way through them, you have to work with your team to learn how they function.
Sabrina: Yes, I think the biggest challenge has been learning how things work in the corporate world, how to deal with clients, manage people, manage priorities and time. But over time I’m feeling more confident and secure.
What do you like most about working at SynTech?
Issam: What I enjoy most about working at SynTech is the opportunity to conduct agricultural experiments within a company recognized internationally. I particularly appreciate working on various topics, including biostimulants, fungicides, herbicides, and fertilizers, applying them to different types of crops in collaboration with various firms and cooperatives. This allows me to tackle real agricultural challenges while being actively involved in researching solutions, which perfectly aligns with my aspirations.
Tarrah: The culture is my favorite thing about the company. All of the people I work with really seem to enjoy their positions, there is a lot of positivity. There are so many different types of people and personalities working together.
Sabrina: What I like most about SynTech is the friendly and collaborative atmosphere. People are supportive, which makes the work environment really positive. I also appreciate the freedom and autonomy we have to carry out our tasks, as well as the opportunity to share knowledge and learn from others. I’m really enjoying my role and responsibilities, it’s been a great experience, both personally and professionally.
Any other comments/input you wish to share?
Issam: I am proud to be part of the SynTech Research Group family.
Sabrina: I just want to say that I’m happy to be here. I’ve already learned a lot and have been fully dedicated and doing my best. I look forward to continuing to grow, contribute to the team, and move forward.