InternViews #5: Canberk Kurtul
InternViews is our weekly series where RIGI interns share their experiences, insights, and stories from their time in Stuttgart.
What inspired you to pursue a career/studies in your field?
I was truly impressed by the idea of combining engineering and biology, subjects that I very much enjoy studying, to build devices that can help people.
What made you apply to RIGI/work on a robotics-related project?
I knew that the Max Planck Institutes are amazing research institutions, and that working at the MPI-IS, alongside brilliant people, would be an opportunity for me to significantly improve my skills. When I came across the program, I immediately started my application.
What’s one (surprising/unexpected) thing you’ve learned so far during your internship?
That you can actually build your own microscope! (Indeed, that's what Canberk did!)
What has been your favorite part of the RIGI program?
Our trip to Tübingen to meet the CaCTüS interns, as well as to visit the facilities there, was my favorite part of the RIGI program.
Canberk and his friends enjoying a meal together
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in Stuttgart so far?
The night when some of my fellow intern friends and I watched the meteor shower on the University of Stuttgart’s campus.
Which inanimate tool or equipment you used in the lab would be the WORST roommate if they were human, and why?
I do not think Raspberry Pi would make a good roommate, because it takes some time for it to answer you or your requests sometimes, and overall it is not easy to understand.
What’s next for you after RIGI?
I will study my last year of my undergraduate degree, and hopefully, I will start my master’s degree after my graduation.
What do you like to do when you’re not doing research/studying/working?
I enjoy playing volleyball and watching volleyball games, but I enjoy spending time with my friends at our favorite coffee shop the most.
Any advice for future RIGI interns?
To make the most of their time at the institution and in Stuttgart. Moreover, I think they should definitely check out Marienplatz, which has been one of my favorite neighborhoods here.
