'It suddenly dawned on me how much I actually already know and can do. Seeing and using the measuring equipment in practice at the faculty and at the company Lode made it less abstract.' These are the words of Eline van den Bosch, a third-year student in Human Movement Sciences at the University of Groningen (UG). From September to February 2023, she is conducting her bachelor's thesis research on a combined arm-leg ergometer. This ergometer is intended for the rehabilitation of people after a leg amputation or a stroke. 'Students often underestimate what they already know and can do. You actually only realize it in your third year through an internship in the field,' says Cassandra Kraaijenbrink, Eline's bachelor's thesis supervisor and lecturer at the Department of Human Movement Sciences at UMCG.
From theoretical knowledge to practical application
Eline's research involves a prototype of a new ergometer. 'After an amputation or a stroke, people experience loss of strength. With this prototype, we're investigating whether we can create a good training device with an exertion test that helps them in their rehabilitation. We're examining three things: gas analysis, measuring muscle activity with EMG, and observing the kinematics using different cameras, which is the movement of a person. I'm mainly involved in the gas analysis. I enjoy being able to apply my theoretical knowledge in practice now.'
Collaboration
Cassandra: 'Lode on Campus Groningen developed this prototype in collaboration with Human Movement Sciences and Rehabilitation Medicine of the UG and UMCG. At Human Movement Sciences, we often have these kinds of collaborations with companies and organizations here in the North. For instance, with makers of arm prostheses. And from our sports specialization, we collaborate extensively with sports clubs and associations such as the Tennis Association, the Skating Association, and FC Groningen.'
Know your worth
There are numerous opportunities for internships, master's programs, and jobs on and around Campus Groningen for Human Movement Sciences students. But how do you achieve what you want? Eline: 'Start looking around you in good time, especially for internships. There's plenty of choice and support from the program. If you're unsure about pursuing a master's after your bachelor's, reach out to the study advisor early. There are good master's programs here, so take your time to make your choice.'
Cassandra advises students to talk to as many people as possible about potential internships and jobs. 'Teachers, researchers, and of course, the study advisor have extensive contacts and relevant networks on and around the Campus. As a student, it might feel daunting, but it works. It's also about awareness. Realize that through your education, you have a lot of knowledge about data and can think very analytically. That's simply gold on the job market later!'
