My internship at IFF has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, offering me both technical skills and real-world exposure that will shape my future career decisions. As an intern in the application lab, I was responsible for preparing finished samples for various purposes – whether for internal evaluations or consumer-use tests. Although the work was fast paced, it provided the perfect opportunity to refine my skills and gain insight into the fragrance and consumer goods industry.

 

One of my key responsibilities was ensuring the highest quality standards for every sample. This required precision in measurement and a solid understanding of materials, spanning fabric care, personal care, home care, and fine fragrance. Initially, I found the volume and complexity of tasks overwhelming. During these stressful moments, my mentor, Didi, provided valuable support. He encouraged me to stay calm and reminded me that it was okay not to meet every deadline when factors were beyond my control. This advice helped me manage my expectations, a lesson I continue to apply today. Over time, I adapted better as I gradually prioritise tasks based on urgency and importance, learning to manage tight deadlines without compromising quality.

Another highlight of my internship was the opportunity to collaborate with a talented, diverse team. From fellow interns to full-time employees, everyone brought unique perspectives to the table as we developed solutions to improve lab processes. For example, I suggested using a handheld milk frother to better homogenize larger sample sizes. With my colleagues' inputs, I refined the idea and selected the attachment that worked best. This collaborative approach to problem-solving taught me that diverse ideas often lead to the best solutions.

I’m also deeply grateful to my supervisor, Mr. Tan Yeow Kiat, for his constant guidance throughout my internship. He took the time to explain IFF’s broader operations and how my role contributed to the company’s goals. Mr. Tan was always available to answer my questions and provided constructive feedback, which helped me grow both professionally and personally. His mentorship gave me the confidence to take on more responsibility and taught me that leadership isn’t just about overseeing tasks – it’s about guiding others to find their own solutions and grow in the process.

Reflecting on my time at IFF, I realise that the skills I gained go beyond technical expertise. I developed strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills – essential for any future role. The challenges I faced, particularly in managing multiple tasks under pressure, taught me to stay organised and focused, while also managing stress.

 

This internship also clarified my career path. Before joining IFF, I had little knowledge of what working in a fragrance house entailed, but hands-on experience has sparked my interest in the field. While I still plan to pursue studies in chemistry or a related field, I’m now certain I want to return to this industry in a more advanced role. Conversations with colleagues and mentors have opened my eyes to the many career opportunities available, and I look forward to exploring these options further.

 

In conclusion, my internship at IFF has been an invaluable learning experience. I’ve gained technical expertise, developed key professional skills, and gained a clearer vision of my career trajectory. I am deeply grateful to everyone at IFF for their guidance and support, and I am excited about the future opportunities in the fragrance and consumer goods industry.