By Noble El-Bey
August 2025

This summer I had the wonderful opportunity to intern for 3 months at Strathclyde University in Dr. Witte’s lab. I traveled around Scotland and even visited 4 other countries in Europe. In this blog I will share the most exciting moments from my summer.

My name is Noble El-Bey, I’m currently an undergraduate in my third year at Florida International University, studying Marine Biology and Biological Science. During my Internship Strathclyde University, I had the unique opportunity to shadow several PhD students in the lab as they worked on their research projects. My favorite researcher to work alongside was Connie, whose work centers around lichens. An organism I hadn’t given much thought before but picked my interest as a biology student. Through Connie, I learned about the various species of lichen found throughout Scotland and how their compositions differ from one another. Shadowing her also allowed me to gain hands on experience with lab instruments such as the stereo microscope, which has been invaluable for my skill development.

Although I was in a new country on a continent I had never been to before, adjusting to Scottish society was surprisingly smooth. The people of Glasgow are incredibly kind. Kind in a way that felt even warmer than what I’m used to back home in Miami. Many attractions were just a short walk, train ride, or bus ride away which made exploring easy and enjoyable. One of my favorite spots was Pollok Country Park, a beautiful location I found myself returning to frequently during my three-month stay. In addition to Glasgow, I had the chance to take a day trip to Edinburgh, where I explored the National Museum of Scotland, and another trip to Brodick on the Isle of Arran. There, I completed the Fisherman’s Walk hike and visited the stunning Brodick Castle.

While Scotland was my home base, my travels didn’t stop there. I was fortunate enough to explore Porto and Carvoerio in Portugal, where cobblestone streets and golden beaches made every day feel like a postcard. In Gothenburg, Sweden I visited the Lisberg amusement park to try their thrilling rides. Corfu, Greece had beautiful turquoise waters where every sunset felt like a painting. My weekend excursions ended in Pula Croatia, a place where Roman amphitheaters stand beside the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Each city left me with new stories perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the many ways people live around the world.

My three months in Glasgow gave me more than just professional experience they gave me a lifetime of memories between lab work at Strathclyde University and travels throughout Europe I discovered new skills new perspectives and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Europe.