Exchange Diaries
Sambaran Ghoshal | Mechanical Engineering
Institute for Systems and Robotics, Lisbon
Research Area: Robots and Computer Controllers Machines,
Duration: 3 Months
What was the field of your work?
In my internship, I had to do some stuff which was purely mechanical and to implement that I had to do a bit of coding. I needed to use concepts like Rotation Matrix, Axis angle representation of rotation and something called Quaternion. Most of these concepts are taught in our dept ( Mechanical ) in courses like Robots and Computer Controllers Machines, and Mechanisms and Robot Kinematics.
2. How did you apply for FT?
Like most, I had applied in a number of programs, but I didn't get selected in them. So I decided to start emailing professors whose research interests were inclined to mine and fortunately I got a reply after roughly 50-60 e-mails! So basically, I got my internship through personal mailing. One reason that I got a reply could be that I was very specific with my interests and mailed those professors which were related to it.
3. Why do you think Foreign Training is important?
I think the question is really subjective. In my opinion, it depends on the student. If he/she aspires to go for higher studies then Foreign Training can be very useful but if the student has a tendency towards data analytics, etc. then I think CDC internships are better. So firstly, students should be clear with their interests and then work accordingly.
4. What role does CGPA play in getting an FT?
I would suggest maintaining a balance between academic and projects. Professors will not only look for your CGPA but also the relevant projects you have done in that particular field. Still, it's always a big plus to have a decent CGPA, I would say above 8, especially if you are applying through scholarship programmes.
5. How did you manage your finances?
Initially, the professor intimated that he won't be able to provide any stipend. As I was very much interested in this training, I decided to take care of the expenses myself. After I started working in Lisbon, the professor did provide some stipend, which was enough for my stay as the city of Lisbon is not that expensive.
6. Did you note any difference while working in Lisbon?
One thing, in particular, while working on my project I found was that professors were really interactive. Professors kept a track of the progress and were very involved in the project themselves. Moreover, the institute had great collaborations in the field of robotics, which is not the case with IIT KGP. Moreover, lab facilities were very nice.
7. On a lighter note, how was your stay in Lisbon?
To sum up my stay in a word, it was just great! The city was awesome and people were very friendly to foreigners which was surprising. Also, the food was nice. Also, I and my co-interns visited a few places around the beautiful city.
8. What suggestion would you give to your fellow KGPians, who are aspiring to go on an FT?
I would suggest to start mailing early by around early October or late September and apply to as many internships programs as possible like Mitacs, DAAD, etc. If you are really keen on projects and research, Foreign Training would be helpful.