Summer 2025 brought a wave of enriching internship experiences for students at the College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island. Dr. Berka’s visits in July added a personal touch to the global endeavors of these students. From Taiwan to Germany, these internships opened doors to cultural immersion, professional growth, and unforgettable memories.
Franny Duong and Julie DesAutels embarked on a journey to Taiwan through the Huayu BEST Summer Program at Tunghai University. Immersed in cultural experiences and linguistic studies, they explored Taiwan’s treasures, from the National Taichung Theater to the Gaomei wetlands. Their adventures were not only educational but also a testament to the power of international collaboration and exchange.
Katie Aaronson’s internship in Santander, Spain, at IHCantabria delved into coastal engineering and management. Working on IH’s Shoreline Evolution Tools and the CoastSnap project, Katie honed her skills in modeling and shoreline monitoring. Her time in Spain was not just about work; it was about embracing a new culture, language, and forming global connections that will shape her future.
Alexi Andresky and Matthew Tibbits found themselves at Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen, Germany, each contributing uniquely to the automotive giant. Alexi’s work on 3D models and Matthew’s Python Library development showcased their technical prowess and adaptability in a fast-evolving industry. Their internships not only broadened their engineering horizons but also instilled in them a sense of independence and readiness for the competitive job market.
The trio of Ethan Carpio, Daniel Ginsburg, and Bert Moklebust thrived at Bosch in Feuerbach, Germany, exploring the realms of mechanical and chemical engineering. From conducting tests to developing scripts, their experiences were multifaceted, offering insights into real-world applications and team dynamics. Their time in Germany unfolded a tapestry of friendships, cultural exchanges, and personal growth beyond academic realms.
Jacob Cultrera’s stint at Bosch involved analyzing fuel cell stacks, delving into post-mortem analysis, and sharpening his German language skills. His internship was not just about technicalities but about embracing his passions and immersing himself in the rich tapestry of German culture, music, and history.
Ella Junge’s internship at Siemens Healthineers in Forchheim, Germany, revolved around cadmium telluride sample preparation and characterization. Her independent research project showcased her expertise in characterization techniques, while her off-work explorations in Bamberg and beyond painted a picture of a well-rounded international experience.
Nathaniel Nichols delved into the world of AI and automated driving systems at BMW in Munich. His contributions to the shift augmentation pipeline underscored the significance of his role in shaping future technologies. Nathaniel’s time in Munich was not just about work; it was a cultural odyssey, a journey of self-discovery, and a testament to the power of cross-cultural immersion.
Matthew Vaudrain’s diverse tasks at IAV in Gifhorn, Germany, spanned vehicle systems development, coding, and testing. His internship journey was a blend of professional growth and personal enrichment, navigating through diverse projects and cultural experiences. Matthew’s time in Germany prepared him not just for a career but for a life enriched by global perspectives.
Dakota Watjen’s internship at Evitado in Hamburg, Germany, offered a holistic view of internal operations and project management. Beyond the professional realm, Dakota’s European escapades, cultural exchanges, and festive celebrations added layers of experiences that transcended borders and languages.
These internships abroad were not just about gaining technical skills; they were transformative journeys that shaped these students into global citizens, ready to embrace challenges, celebrate diversity, and navigate the interconnected world of engineering with confidence and cultural competence.
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