Ida Nikolova
University:
Royal Holloway University London
Placement:
In2Science
Role:
In2STEM Programme Intern
“This placement brought together two areas that I am really passionate about; Science and Communication. It helped me grow personally and professionally in ways that are different to my academic study.”
Describe a typical day:
Every day was different, but there was a nice routine. We usually started with daily meetings with the STEM team and my supervisor. We’d catch up on how things were going, discuss any issues, and plan next steps. Part of my work included me writing the weekly newsletter. Every day we had mentoring sessions, which I really enjoyed, and most days had workshops or research courses. I would edit Zoom recordings and upload them to YouTube. I’d go to different departments at UCL to collect photos for social media and case studies. I also worked on blog content, and occasionally I’d work with the comms team to brainstorm ideas for social media posts and stories. The mix of tasks kept things interesting, and I loved how each day felt a little different but always purposeful.
Why did you decide to do a placement?
I decided to do this placement because it brought together two areas I’m really passionate about: science and communication. I’ve always wanted to make STEM more accessible to people, and the In2STEM programme provided the perfect opportunity to do that. I was also excited to gain hands-on experience in a professional environment, working on something meaningful while developing my skills. It wasn’t just about boosting my CV; it was about being part of a community that’s actively making a difference. Plus, I knew it would help me grow, both personally and professionally, in ways that are different to my academic studies.
How do you think doing a placement has benefited you for the future?
I’ve developed practical skills like content creation, event organization, and mentoring, which will be useful in any future role. But more importantly, I’ve grown in confidence—especially when it comes to communication and working with different people. I also have a clearer idea of how I want to shape my career. I’ve realized that I want to balance research with outreach, making science accessible while continuing to explore my own curiosity in astrophysics. This placement has helped me refine that vision.
What are your next steps?
After I graduate with my BSc, I’m planning to continue with a Master's in astrophysics. I’d also love to find a part-time job in outreach to keep sharing my passion for physics with others while I study. Long-term, I’m aiming for a balanced career where I can do both—pursue research in astrophysics while also engaging in science communication. The experience has given me a clearer idea of how I can make an impact, both in research and by inspiring the next generation of scientists.
