InternViews #9: Napas Siripala
InternViews is our weekly series where RIGI interns share their experiences, insights, and stories from their time in Stuttgart.
What inspired you to pursue studies/a career in your field?
I used to volunteer at a hospital in my hometown. Seeing how medical devices interact with the human body fascinated me and sparked my curiosity about their underlying mechanisms. Although biomedical engineering is a multidisciplinary field, it allows me to focus on solving medical problems through engineering solutions while answering the questions I had when I was younger.
What made you apply to RIGI or want to work on a robotics-related project?
I wanted to explore medical devices beyond their conventional applications, especially those involving sensing and physical interaction with humans, and medical robotics seemed like the perfect answer. Working in my university's medical robotics lab, I wanted to broaden my perspective by experiencing a new research environment. I believe that different cultures and diverse perspectives can lead to different approaches to solving the same problem, which motivated me to apply to RIGI.
What was your favorite part of the RIGI program?
My favorite part was interacting with fellow interns, discussing our projects and exploring German engineering and innovations together. The program itself was already awesome, but it was even better when we experienced it with peers who shared similar interests and enthusiasm.
What do you like to do when you’re not researching, studying, or working?
I love exploring new foods at supermarkets, which was especially exciting since I was living on a different continent with so many unfamiliar things to try, both individually and in combination. I also enjoy photography, so Germany has already become the country with the second-highest number of photos in my gallery.
Milly and her fellow RIGI interns at Schlossplatz in Stuttgart
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in Stuttgart?
One of my favorite memories was visiting the city center with other interns and exploring my first museum in Europe, the Württemberg State Museum. That experience inspired me to discover more of what Stuttgart and the surrounding areas had to offer.
Which inanimate tool or piece of equipment you used in the lab would be the WORST roommate if it were human, and why?
It would definitely be the motion capture suit! Imagine having a roommate who constantly hugs you tightly and tracks your every movement. It is certainly a great piece of equipment to work with, but there is no way I would want it as my roommate.
What’s next for you after RIGI?
I am currently in the final year of my bachelor's degree and still have to complete my bachelor's thesis. After graduation, I plan to pursue a master's degree in robotics.
Milly and her RIGI friends at the Summer Festival of Cultures in Stuttgart
Any advice for future RIGI interns?
Work hard and travel fast! I really enjoyed the research environment at the institute, as it encouraged me to keep learning. Make the most of your time by dedicating yourself to your project while also taking every opportunity to explore Europe. Three months flew by so quickly for me, but I don't regret a single moment. :)
