When the news of my selection for the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Rising Stars Workshop arrived, I was overjoyed. It wasn’t just an opportunity to attend a prestigious event, it was the realization of a dream to visit my dream country and expand my global network.

Traveling to Karlsruhe, Germany, marked a series of firsts for me: my first solo trip, my first encounter with German culture, and my first brush with a winter that plunged below 10°C. Armed with long socks, gloves, hats, and jackets, I dove headfirst into the local traditions.

The Karlsruhe Christmas Market was a standout experience, with its dazzling lights, festive treats, and the magical sight of the Weihnachtsmann (Santa Claus) soaring through the air on his sleigh. It was like stepping into a storybook.

Sampling authentic German cuisine was another delight. Whether savoring Schnitzel and Sauerkraut or indulging in Nougat, each meal was a flavorful lesson in culture. My attempts at speaking German, though modest, grew more confident with every interaction, making the experience even more enriching.

A pivotal moment during the workshop was our tour of the European Union Joint Research Centre (JRC) facilities. Stepping into one of Europe’s most advanced nuclear engineering hubs was both empowering and eye-opening. Interacting with engineers, including inspiring female professionals, offered invaluable insights into navigating challenges in a male-dominated field. Donning the specialized gear used in nuclear facilities added an element of excitement, making the experience truly unforgettable.

The workshop sessions brimmed with inspiration. One presentation that stood out was by Postdoc Sarah Lu, who introduced an interactive radioactivity card game designed to tackle the nuclear skills shortage by engaging school students in STEM. Her creativity underscored the power of innovation in addressing societal challenges.

I had the privilege of presenting a poster titled “Enhancing Radiation Protection: Innovations of Cost-Effective Dosimeters for Real-Time Monitoring.” As part of the OpenDosimeter initiative, this project sparked meaningful discussions and received praise, particularly from Dr. Tatiana Ivanova, who encouraged me to take the project further. This moment reaffirmed my commitment to driving innovative solutions in the nuclear field.

The workshop reinforced the importance of innovation, mentorship, and effective communication in tackling complex issues. One particularly inspiring moment was meeting Elina Charatsidou, a YouTuber and nuclear engineer widely known as “Your Friendly Nuclear Physicist.” Her work demonstrated how social media can be a powerful tool for demystifying technical topics for a broader audience.

The all-women format of the workshop was another highlight. It offered a supportive environment for collaboration and mentorship in a field often dominated by men. Conversations over the networking dinner revealed fascinating cultural differences and shared ambitions, forging connections that will undoubtedly lead to future collaborations.

The Rising Stars Workshop broadened my understanding of engineering practices worldwide and highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in shaping the future. Touring the JRC underscored Europe’s innovation in nuclear energy and its importance in meeting global energy demands.

To all aspiring female leaders in STEM, never underestimate the power of networking and mentorship. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity came from a simple lecturer’s recommendation. The engineering field is brimming with opportunities and all it takes is a leap of faith, a dose of audacity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Article written by Dorothy Hadassah, Electrical and Electronics Engineering 2nd Year Student