My Summer Externship at Nucube: A Journey of Growth, Challenge, and Friendship

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to join Nucube, a company of nuclear engineers who are currently in the exciting development stage of a groundbreaking project. Based in Idaho Falls, the office may be small—just four brilliant individuals—but the impact they’re working toward is anything but.

When I started my externship, my primary goal was to learn Python and begin building a Python library to support the work being done at Nucube. With little experience in programming, I knew I had a steep hill to climb, but I was ready for the challenge.

What made this journey so special was the guidance and mentorship I received along the way. My mentor, Andrea Alfonsi, worked with me directly every day. We spent countless hours exploring how to define and structure classes in Python—concepts that once seemed daunting but gradually became clearer thanks to his patience and support.

Another key figure during my time at Nucube was the company’s CEO, Christian Rabiti, who, along with Andrea, originally hails from Italy. Getting to know them on both a professional and personal level was an unexpected highlight. Not only are they incredibly intelligent and driven, but they are also down-to-earth and genuinely supportive. Learning about their paths, cultures, and expertise added a rich layer to my experience that went far beyond coding.

Over the course of the externship, I faced some of the most difficult challenges I’ve ever encountered—technically, mentally, and emotionally. But those challenges were matched by some of the most rewarding moments I’ve had in my academic and professional life. I pushed myself harder than I thought I could, and in return, I gained skills, confidence, and a deep appreciation for the work being done in the nuclear energy field.

Perhaps most importantly, I left with lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging to a team that is doing meaningful, world-changing work.

Looking back, this externship was so much more than a summer job. It was a turning point—and one I will always be grateful for.

Grade Level and Subject Taught: 9-12 Business Education