Nils Höpner is 15 years old and completed his two-week student internship at the Institute Industrial IT (inIT) at TH OWL. He is in the 10th grade at the Christian Rauch Gymnasium in Bad Arolsen. He spent his time at inIT in the "Vernetzte Automatisierungssysteme" group led by group leader Natalia Moriz.
How did you decide to do an internship at inIT?
I really wanted to do something in the direction of IT. However, in my home country there are only small cell phone repair stores and I wanted to go more into the subject. After my research, I found the institute and was immediately very interested. Since my father works at the university, contact was quickly established and I was accepted after my application.
What was your highlight during your time at inIT?
I really enjoyed the two weeks overall. It was especially nice for me to have achieved a goal. I worked on a programming project and was able to supervise it from start to finish. It's also nice that I realized through the internship that this work is exactly my thing and that my interests have been confirmed.
What were your specific tasks?
In my project I have rebuilt an already existing sensor station and created a new software. The sensor station consists of four sensors that measure the volume, temperature, humidity and brightness in an office. I wrote a program for it that evaluates the data, transfers it to a central computer and sends a message when action is needed, e.g. to upgrade the air quality in the room. I would like to take this opportunity to express my special thanks to my technical supervisor Daniel Antonow, who was always available to give me advice and support.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
After graduating from high school, I would like to study in the STEM field. I don't know exactly which profession it will be for me, but computer science and programming should definitely be part of it.
Anyone who is also interested in an internship is welcome to apply at the inIT. "An internship is a good way to gain early access to research, to experience everyday life and perhaps also to overcome inhibitions. With us, you can get a taste of different working groups and key topics and gain impulses for your later career choice," explains Natalia Moriz.