I want to tell you about my spring in Norway as an intern at Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI).
My name is Raffaele. I have a degree in Civil Engineering and I completed a Master’s degree in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering in 2024. As part of the MINOR TT-SI track in the Master’s degree program, I earned the title of Smart Infrastructure Developer.
In an era of constant digital advancement, transversal skills are more in demand than ever. Developing complementary knowledge alongside the solid theoretical foundation of our Structural and Geotechnical Engineering (STReGA) degree program presents an exciting challenge.
This path equipped me with the essential skills and expertise required by the job market, enabling me to acquire practical and innovative knowledge highly valued in the Structural and Geotechnical fields. Thanks to this cross-disciplinary approach, I developed digital and parametric skills that enhance my theoretical foundation, providing me with a tangible advantage in the job market.
During the internship in Oslo (2024), I had the opportunity to participate in the Campus Ullevål: Research and Instrumentation of Underground Structures project, where I focused on the topic: Influence of a Deep Excavation in Clay on Adjacent Buildings.
My journey at the company was formative in every aspect: I had the privilege of meeting and working with extraordinary people and participating in innovative projects. Thanks to this experience in Oslo through the Erasmus+ Mobility for Traineeships program, I achieved significant development both professionally and personally.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my professor and mentor, Emilio Bilotta, from the Department of Civil, Building, and Environmental Engineering, whose guidance made this experience possible. I also sincerely thank the Department of Structures for Engineering and Architecture at the University of Naples Federico II for their invaluable support and teachings, which have been fundamental to my journey. A big thank you to the Erasmus Program, which broadens our horizons as young people, making us feel like European citizens and allowing us to meet people from all around the world.
If I could go back, I would undoubtedly make this choice again without hesitation. This experience allowed me to grow and fully prepare for the professional world. I highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to enrich their education with practical and innovative skills, opening doors to new and exciting opportunities.
Of course, along the way, there will be challenges. It will be necessary to face obstacles. But every hurdle overcome will be a step toward realizing your potential, rewarded not only by the satisfaction of acquiring skills that make you competitive in the job market but also by the opportunity to build international friendships.
Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there: this journey will profoundly change you, both personally and professionally!
Raffaele De Lucia
