I’m Marina from Brazil, and I’m pursuing a degree in Environmental Engineering at Federal University of Minas Gerais. This semester, I had the amazing opportunity to work with Bart Letterie on the Combrine project at HZ University of Applied Sciences.
Throughout my studies, I have always been interested in subjects related to water in its many forms, such as hydrology, hydraulics, and water treatment. Since the Netherlands is internationally recognized for the Delta Works and its expertise in water management, I couldn’t have chosen a better country to learn more about it!
During my internship, I have been working on a lab-scale desalination project using Membrane Distillation technology, which is driven by the temperature difference between the two sides of the membrane. The main objective of my study is to produce high-quality water and validate the feasibility of this technology, which could potentially be used to treat seawater, industrial brine, and several other streams that I am currently testing.
Preparing for an internship abroad requires careful attention to important steps such as gathering the required documents, applying for a visa, buying flight tickets and finding accommodation. However, throughout this process, I received great support from the university and everyone involved. They were always available to help me with any questions and guide me through the next steps.
I’d say to all the students that are interest in applying for this opportunity to just go for it! To have the opportunity to work in a different environment, with different kind of people and in another language is a unique experience. And beyond the hard work, having the opportunity to explore the Netherlands and visit other countries in Europe, learning about new cultures and seeing beautiful places, are memories that I will always carry with me.
There is a quote by Anthony Bourdain that I really like: "If I am an advocate for anything, it is to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. The extent to which you can walk in somebody else's shoes or at least eat their food, it's a plus for everybody”.
Because of this project, I’m able to live that experience.
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