Embracing Persistence: A Journey of Challenges and Growth

HZB Wannsee

A post by HZB summerstudent Valentina Paredes:

Starting an undiscovered adventure

The prospect of exploring a new country and immersing myself in different cultures and studying solar cells filled me with excitement as I embarked on a research program in Germany. However, this experience proved to be far from smooth sailing. Unforeseen challenges tested my resilience from the very beginning. Securing accommodation close to my research institute, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, was a daunting task. In fact, I could get one just one week before the start of the program. Upon arriving at the institute, my enthusiasm was dampened by an unexpected cyberattack on HZB that disrupted our projects. Nearly all computers were infected, rendering it impossible to extract data from the instruments, and there was no internet access. This unfortunate situation had a significant impact on the carefully planned schedule for my project.

Despite these obstacles, I remained determined to make the most of my time. In an unexpected turn of events, my supervisor had a conference during my first week, leaving me feeling somewhat uncertain about my immediate path. However, I used this time wisely to immerse myself in the intricacies of the equipment and took the opportunity to connect with my new colleagues, who graciously assisted me in the process.

Selecting a project involving Kesterites and perovskites, materials for solar cells, presented its own set of challenges. Frustration mounted during the initial measurements, it was stressful as it was almost the third week, and I would not obtain what I expected. By this time, I wondered what I would do if that were the case. But with my supervisors help and consistence I persevered, ultimately obtaining the results needed.

Getting to know new cultures, food and friends.

In the meantime, I’ve had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse cultures, forging connections with people from all walks of life. Embarking on a culinary escapade, I’ve delighted in a tantalizing array of flavors, savoring the exquisite nuances of Vietnamese, Italian, Indian, and Egyptian cuisines. Alongside these adventures, I’ve explored captivating destinations such as the Zoologischer Garten Berlin and the Aquarium Berlin, seeing animals from all over the world, which was really amazing. Also, I cultivated friendships that have become pillars of unwavering support throughout this journey and who I could hang out and visit the Berlin cathedral, The Natural History Museum or the Berlin wall.

Being away from home made me miss my family and friends deeply, but their encouragement and constant communication gave me the energy and motivation I needed to persevere. It highlighted the importance of social relationships, as their presence in my life helped me navigate the difficulties and take advantage of the opportunities for personal growth that challenges offered.

An experience of knowledge

Through it all, I learned to embrace uncertainties and the unpredictability of life’s journey. The experience helped me to carry a new perspective, a world of possibilities, and the courage to confront the unknown with curiosity and excitement.

As I prepare to return home, I do so with profound gratitude for the growth and wisdom gained during this transformative journey. It was not just about reaching a destination; it was about the evolution within me, amidst the challenges and changes. With newfound resilience and an open mind, I look forward to whatever lies ahead, knowing that the support of loved ones and the lessons learned in Berlin will guide me through whatever life may bring.

On the autor:

Liana Valentina Paredes is a bachelor’s student Chemistry at Universidad Nacional de Colombia. She is currently participating in the Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin summer student program, where she is focused on researching absorbent materials like kesterites and perovskites in tandem solar cells.