Living and interning in the U.S. has been a delightful experience due to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Regardless of someone’s position, we address each other by first names. We take the time to share personal stories, exciting news, and even show photos to celebrate each other’s happiness. My coworkers have become friends, and as I learn new English phrases from them, I happily teach them how to say things in German.
Yazan
Studying electrical engineering as a Bachelor’s degree candidate at the University of Applied Sciences in Koblenz, Germany, Yazan is now spending six months as an intern training at SciGlob Instruments and Services, LLC in Columbia, Maryland. Yazan is originally from Syria.
The main focus of Yazan’s training at SciGlob has been learning to understand the devices manufactured by the company, including the Pandora spectrometer, which measures trace gasses in the atmosphere. NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have a network of the Pandora instruments across the globe known as the Pandonia Global Network. Specifically, Yazan has researched sun-tracking devices and explored various techniques, including spectrum analysis and the utilization of optical fibers.
Yazan explains that developing a state-of-the-art device for the measurement and analysis of air gasses is an essential first step in improving air quality. “One of the vital focal points of my work at SciGlob entails a comprehensive understanding of the devices manufactured by the company, particularly regarding the precision and accuracy of gas calculation processes in real-time. This is crucial for identifying sources of pollution, taking action to reduce emissions, and monitoring the effectiveness of those actions,” he writes.
Yazan’s tasks focus on refining and advancing SciGlob’s cutting-edge devices. Every morning, he meets with his mentor to prepare for his lab work, which can include manufacturing, testing, and programming, and fieldwork, like conducting product setups on rooftops. Before heading home he presents a summary of his results to his mentor so they can review his progress.
In addition to learning from his mentor, Yazan has also been training with the team of engineers at SciGlob. Together they have made meticulous modifications to the device’s circuit boards, ensuring their compatibility and seamless integration. This collaboration has also given him an opportunity to learn about U.S. work culture. He writes:
“One of the most enjoyable aspects of working with my employer is the opportunity to collaborate closely with the team. This enables me to witness how American engineers discuss and creatively solve technical problems. Additionally, I find great satisfaction in seeing the tangible outcomes of my work firsthand. Through integrating state-of-the-art technologies and collaborative efforts, we have made substantial progress in optimizing the Pandora’s performance.”
During his time here, Yazan has also had the opportunity to learn more about U.S. culture more broadly:
“Living and interning in the U.S. has been a delightful experience due to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Regardless of someone’s position, we address each other by first names. We take the time to share personal stories, exciting news, and even show photos to celebrate each other’s happiness. My coworkers have become friends, and as I learn new English phrases from them, I happily teach them how to say things in German.”
The great question driving Yazan’s quest for progress? “How far can we push the boundaries of development and improvement to achieve the highest precision in capturing gas ratios?”
If you are a university student, recent graduate, or a professional in a STEM field consider joining the Early Career STEM Initiative and have your own cultural exchange experience in the USA. Start your Career Training USA application today!
