THE IMPACT ON STUDENTS' CAREERS WHEN THEY UNDERTAKE INTERNSHIPS IN RESEARCH GROUPS
M.J. Ramalhosa, C. Delerue-Matos, O. Freitas
Internships within research groups hold significant importance for both students' future trajectories and for the research development. These scientific research internships provide students with a unique opportunity to collaborate on research projects, gaining valuable experience and innovative knowledge.
Through active involvement in research activities, students improve their critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills, which are important tools for success and competitiveness in their academic and professional careers. Additionally, this type of internship fosters a reciprocal relationship in which students contribute to the advancement of ongoing research while benefiting from guidance, mentoring and exposure to various research methodologies.
Experience shows that these internships in our research group offer students networking prospects, allowing them to establish collaborations with colleagues, mentors and industry experts, enhancing students' professional development, motivation and encouragement as they progress along their academic and professional paths.
In conclusion, by providing students with real practical research experience, these internships allow students to become enthusiastic with science, opening up horizons for pursuing a career in research.
Keywords: Hands-on research experience, networking opportunities, scientific research internships.