Publications, Research
by PESS

PESS Internship:  Exploring the potential for data analytics and innovation in applied sport and exercise nutrition – Shreya Ghosh.

  1. What was your role during the internship? (Key responsibilities and tasks…)

  2. How did the internship help you grow professionally and personally? (Lessons learnt…)

  3. Did you face any challenges during your internship? (If so, how did you overcome them?

  4. How did your supervisor/the departments work environment contribute to your experience?

  5. Did you have opportunities to network with other professionals in the industry?

  6. How has this internship influenced your career goals or future plans?

  7. What advice would you give to future interns applying for this program?

This summer I secured one of the PESS Department student internships and worked with Associate Professor Catherine Norton and Dr Alex Gamble on a project related to the use of technology among sport and exercise nutritionists. During my 8-week PESS Internship, I had a few key responsibilities and tasks The first was to undertake a narrative review of the opportunities for technology and innovation in sports performance to optimise performance nutrition practice  while the second task involved  a qualitative exploration of the current use and considerations of nutrition practitioners of technology and innovation in sports performance).  My supervisors and I had one meeting every week, during which I presented the work I had done the previous week, asked questions on any relevant topics, and discussed tasks and goals for the following week. Having this schedule allowed me to focus on my tasks for an adequate amount of time while still having the option to reach out in case I required further guidance as well as be organised with my deadlines, etc.

This internship allowed me to experience an insight into a real research role due to the amount of various responsibilities and roles I had. It allowed me to explore ‘Research’ as a career option in the future and definitely opened up my thoughts about pursuing further education. I revisited an assortment of research skills I briefly acquired throughout my Bachelor’s Degree and allowed myself time to dig deeper and use them in different contexts, without the overlying pressure of being graded on my performance. Going into my MSc in the next academic year, I can say I feel more confident than I did prior to this internship, and I value the lessons I learnt.  

My supervisors were extremely helpful and responsive when I felt any feelings of confusion or challenge. Towards the beginning, I felt hesitant to reach out more often than weekly since I thought I was expected to have my given tasks completed by the time our meeting came round. However, I was quickly reassured that if I’m facing a challenge and finding it difficult to proceed, it is more efficient to enquire for assistance rather than waiting.

I felt very lucky to be working inside the PESS building with my own office space. The space allowed me to maintain a routine and have flexibility at the same time. My supervisors were very punctual with our meeting times and pushed me in a positive way to see the upcoming results of the work I was completing each week.

This internship has significantly shaped my career aspirations by solidifying my interest in research as a potential career path. The hands-on experience and diverse responsibilities gave me a deeper understanding of what a research role entails and opened up the thought of pursuing further education. As I prepare to embark on my MSc, I feel more confident and better equipped with the skills and knowledge I’ve gained. This internship not only validated my interest in research but also motivated me to explore this field more extensively in the future.

My supervisors and I are continuing to analyse our data for dissemination at conferences later in the year. While our current cohort is predominantly Irish practitioners, this project will continue internationally in the months ahead, with opportunities for the current sport science undergraduate students at UL to contribute to this research.

For future interns, I would advise embracing the opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance whenever needed. Initially, I was hesitant to reach out frequently, but I learned that seeking assistance when faced with challenges is far more productive than struggling alone. Also make the most of the structured schedule and your workspace to stay organised and maintain a routine. This will help you maximise your learning experience and achieve your goals efficiently.

Practitioners in sport and exercise wishing to contribute to this project can access more information and the questionnaire via this link.

Shreya Ghosh is a graduate of the BSc Sport & Exercise Sciences in the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, UL.

Contact:  LinkedIn 

Tagged with: