International internship

Jujuy, Argentina

Alluvial and gravitational processes in the Humahuaca River Valley

My internship was a research project studying the formation and evolution of alluvial fans at two sites located within the Humahuaca River Valley in Jujuy, a province in the northern region of Argentina. The dominant processes and flow types were analyzed and determined through the use of geologic field techniques and various computer programs. This data was then utilized to evaluate these risks and to advise local inhabitants.

Alicante, Spain

Cross-Cultural Learning and Professional Development: Customized Fitness and Rehabilitation Programs Guiding Recovery and Strength.

I worked at the “Jorge Lledó” physiotherapy clinic, where I learned to help and support patients with their physical problems. Thanks to this experience, I learned about the work culture in Spain.

Fukuoka, Japan

Hong Kong, China

Fukuoka, Japan

Researching Fiber Optics to Detect Tremors in Parkinson’s Patients

During my time conducting research at Kyushu University, I was a part of the Integrated Electronic Systems lab. My research centered around finding a way to detect tremors in people who have Parkinson’s disease using optical fiber. Focusing on measuring the tremors in the hand as there is a need to find a way to measure the tremors without the need of using expensive equipment or inconveniencing the patient. From these criteria, I concluded using the Mach Zehnder interferometer would be a viable option. Measuring the tremors with Mach Zehnder Interferometer with artificial vibrations, I tested the accuracy of detection, pattern recognition, and potential improvements. Using various pattern recognition, I focused on detecting vibrations between a certain Beats per Minute that is seen in Parkinson’s patients. My time in Japan was not only focused on research but also enjoying and experiencing the lab culture in Japan. Being a part of the lab, I was able to gain insight and grow in other various ways that would not have been possible if I had only traveled to Japan.

Jena, Germany

Transitioning into an embedded world of computing

As computers become more powerful and compact, they also become more involved in our everyday lives, from smartphones to smart homes. These tiny computers that have dedicated functions, such as processing images on a camera, are referred to as being embedded. Embedded devices still have a vast number of fields that they can greatly benefit, but often times in these applications it is not yet possible to replace a large, general computer with a tiny, dedicated one. When these fields feel that they are on the edge of becoming embedded, a prototype is usually built to prove that edge right or wrong. I found myself testing one of these edges in Jena, one of the most innovative cities in Germany, tasked with researching and prototyping an embedded device (which I unfortunately cannot disclose). This took me down a long journey of unknowns, surrounded in an unfamiliar environment that challenged many values that I am used to in the States.

Concepción, Chile

REVEAL Corsi-Rosenthol Box: Monitoring and Improving the air quality of the Air in High Schools

The research during my internship was centered on the question how can we create a cheap air filter for high schools in the region? The goals of the research were to create a Corsi-Rosenthal Box with local materials in Chile, clean the air in schools and warm the air for the winter. The project had two parts; investigate ways to filter and heat the air and look at variations of the Corsi-Rosenthal Box. Not only did I learn things about mechanical engineering during the internship, I also learned Chilean Spanish.

Madrid, Spain

Creating a business plan and marketing strategy for a start-up

I did my internship with a startup company, Drone Hopper. Drone Hopper designs and manufactures high capacity drones for fire extinction, fumigation, search, rescue and duty. My internship consisted of creating business and marketing plans for different products, as well as creating market research for different countries in which there is potential of incorporating our drones. Being able to represent Drone Hopper in various exhibitions around Europe was one of my biggest accomplishments during my internship, in which I gave pitches of our drones to possible investors and entrepreneurs in Europe to obtain more capital for Drone Hopper.

Ecuador and Guatemala

Kansai, Japan

Cultural and Culinary Differences in the Japanese and American Hospitality Industries

During my internship I worked in the kitchen of a traditional Japanese hotel and learned the basic steps necessary to run a restaurant in Japan. This included how the clock-in/out system functioned, how schedules are made, food safety precautions, and the daily life of Japanese workers. As a customer traveling around Japan, I frequented various types of accommodations and observed their amenities and customer service. In the hospitality industry, it is important to recognize the variety of hotels and restaurants that exist around the world, and the diverse services they provide. My goal for doing this internship was to explore the differences between the Japanese and American hospitality industries as both a guest and staff member.