Applied Computer Science student Marijn works on a Mars rover: ‘This is the most educational year of my studies’
Marijn Grashof is a fourth-year Applied Computer Science student. He deliberately chose the international track of the programme because of its diversity of cultures and perspectives. Currently, he works full-time as team manager of RoboTeam Twente, a team that is building a Mars rover. Student editor Roos spoke with him about this experience.
RoboTeam Twente has existed for ten years and spent many years developing autonomous football robots. After that competition ended, the team transitioned to the European Rover Challenge, where student teams build a Mars rover. “Student teams are essentially non-profit companies,” says Marijn. “We have our own building, budget, and full autonomy.” In addition to engineering, the team also focuses on finance, PR, safety, and sponsor relations. The new competition perfectly matches the combination of hardware, software, and electronics. In Poland, a simulated Mars environment has been created where the rover will need to perform. “Our engineers already have the first prototypes ready. It’s one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.”
‘You learn things here that you would never encounter in a classroom’
“I lead a team of 27 people with a budget of one hundred thousand euros. That’s unique.” Marijn oversees the structure and progress of the project: “I don’t build anything myself, but I make sure everything works.” He leads meetings, organizes events, and represents the team within the 'Stichting Studententeams Twente' (Student Teams Twente Foundation). “You learn things here that you would never encounter in a classroom.”
Collaborating with students from all disciplines
The team consists of students from Saxion and the University of Twente, from a wide range of programmes. “We really are a mini-company.” This diversity also brings challenges. “People management is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. It’s where I’ve learned the most about myself.” After a difficult year, RoboTeam had to reinvent itself. “We turned everything around: we’re financially healthy, we have a new project, and we’re at the start of our qualification process.” The prospect of traveling to Poland with the entire team is the highlight for Marijn.
Why joining a student team is so valuable
According to Marijn, being part of a student team is the best learning experience you can get. “It’s like compressing six years of work experience into one year.” Companies see student teams as a pre-selection of talent: combining practical experience, responsibility, and innovation. Marijn strongly recommends that every student considers joining a student team. “You grow faster than you ever expected and work on projects you’ll never forget.”
Interested? Sign up via www.roboteamtwente.nl/join