Great Minds initiative

Here is what they have to say about their participation in the Great Minds initiative, about IBM Research - Zurich in general and the practical experience they gained here, as well as their tips for future Great Minds applicants.

“The internship is exactly what I believe is perfect for an innovative and dedicated student, especially for a woman,” says Tetiana Levandovska (21), the only female in this year’s Great Minds group. “Women are creative, and research is a field for free thinking, for creativity. The targets are set by mentors, but you don’t get a specification with requirements, you are free to search for a better way of how things should work.”

Our student interns say they especially enjoy working with professional researchers in a friendly atmosphere that gives them the freedom to work in a truly innovative manner. “I am getting an understanding of how research works,” continues Tetiana. “It’s an excellent experience to pursue research alongside professionals, and I’m benefiting by learning about technologies that will help me when the time comes to write my Master’s thesis. What’s more, people at IBM Research - Zurich are very smart and interesting.”

Tomáš Tůma (24) agrees, adding that “I’ve had the opportunity to look behind the scenes of research work and to see the everyday course of events.” Asked what is special about IBM Research - Zurich, Tomáš likes “that you can meet with experienced and successful researchers and discuss your work with them. I appreciate the overall friendly atmosphere in the company.”

“Tudás” István Szombath orion @ sch.bme.hu Master’s student of Computer Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics

Also referring to the corporate culture at IBM Research - Zurich, István Szombath (24) points out that “the cafeteria is a very important place to discuss work-related issues, whether it’s over lunch or during coffee/tea breaks.” István applied for IBM’s Great Minds Initiative because he wanted to test his skills abroad in a multi-cultural IT company. “My experience at IBM Research - Zurich has wholly met my expectations,” he says, and adds “I am gaining professional, communication and reasoning skills as well as theoretical knowledge related to my research field.”

Artem Nikulchenko (21) emphasizes the opportunity for students to work in a real company on real IT tasks. “In Ukraine,” he explains, “companies and universities do not work together or benefit from each other. As a student you can either study theoretically at a university or you can work in a company, but you cannot get support from a company for your theoretical studies, as I’ve experienced here at IBM. That’s why this combination is a unique opportunity for me!”

Advice to future applicants

We asked our current Great Minds students if they had any tips for future applicants, and here’s what they said: “Think about what could be improved in the IT industry, and show that you are dedicated and clever,” advises István. “Write a good CV following the KISSS principle: keep it short, simple and serious,” recommends Tetiana. “Write what you really think in your position paper. There are no wrong answers,” councils Artem. “Gain theoretical and practical experience so that your work can really make an effective contribution,” urges Tomáš. And most importantly, all four agree: “Don’t miss this opportunity! IBM Research - Zurich is a great place to acquire and test a wide range of skills and to gain real life experience!”

If you have any questions, contact our Great Minds students!