UTEC's experience with The University of Alberta
Patricia Orbegoso, Head of the UTEC Global Office, tells us about the opportunities that The University of Alberta offers to UTEC students and the impact of the ELAP Scholarship on their international training.
1. What opportunities stand out for UTEC students at The University of Alberta?
Thanks to the existing agreement between UTEC and UAlberta, our students have access to cutting-edge laboratories and work under the guidance of experts from the Faculty of Engineering at The University of Alberta. The scope of this agreement has expanded even further this year, allowing students from the Faculties of Engineering at both universities to participate in exchange programs for one academic semester. This effort encourages the exchange of ideas and collaboration on joint projects, enriching both our students and those of The University of Alberta.
2. What impact does the ELAP Scholarship have on students who participate in this program?
The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) scholarship is an initiative of the Canadian government to which students of all UTEC programs can apply to carry out a research stay, under the supervision of a doctor-researcher, in one of the laboratories of a Canadian institution.
These scholarships cover all living expenses, food, and other costs during research stays of approximately four months. This is very important for our students, as it allows them to live a global experience with a minimum investment. In this sense, we are proud to be the Peruvian university with the largest number of winners of these scholarships, with more than 70 students who have participated in this program.
3. What skills do students develop by studying in an environment like Canada?
Studying in an environment like that fostered by a Canadian university allows UTEC students to develop key skills by collaborating on cutting-edge research projects. This experience strengthens their technical and teamwork skills and also encourages critical thinking and innovation. In addition, the internship is recognized as a pre-professional project course, which provides additional value to the curriculum and prepares them to face the challenges of the working world. These opportunities are essential for their comprehensive training, enhancing their professional development and competitiveness in a local and global market.