Building a Stronger Digital Identity and Advancing Circular Economy: Key Insights from Two MOOCs

As part of the Training for Professional Digital Competence course, I completed two MOOCs: Personal Branding by the University of Virginia and Circular Economy: An Introduction by TU Delft. Below, I summarize the most impactful aspects of each course.

MOOC I-Personal Branding

This course provided practical insights into building and maintaining a personal brand in the digital world. Key takeaways include:

  • Understanding the importance of digital identity: Learning how personal branding influences professional opportunities.
  • Practical tools for online branding: Exploring applications and techniques to create and enhance an online presence.
  • Tailored branding strategies: Discovering how to align digital branding with personal objectives, such as career advancement and knowledge growth.
  • LinkedIn optimization: Gaining actionable advice for updating my CV and improving my profile as part of my Personal Learning Environment (PLE).
  • New learning resources: Introducing Coursera as a valuable platform for expanding expertise in related fields like the circular economy.

MOOC II-Circular Economy

This MOOC was an eye-opener to the necessity and practical applications of the circular economy. Key highlights include:

  • Comprehensive introduction to CE principles: Understanding why the circular economy is essential and how it applies to businesses and daily life.
  • Exploration of innovative business models: Learning about value creation, butterfly diagrams, and biomimicry.
  • Real-world examples: Appreciating the practical relevance of theories through diverse case studies from industries and markets.
  • Expanded PLE resources: Discovering new sources of knowledge, including YouTube videos and academic papers.
  • Deeper subject mastery: Building on my existing knowledge and filling gaps with advanced insights, making the course directly relevant to my academic and professional goals.
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About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

NICOLA CARLETTI – Academic and Professional Digital Identity Plan

In this post, I present my Academic and Professional Digital Identity Plan, which is a project for defining my goals and displaying my skills in a sequential manner. This plan will be implemented through digital tools and networks to enhance my presence, share my achievements, and open opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Find the link here! Nicola Carletti – DI.pptx

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About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

Nicola’s Personal Learning Environment (PLE)

My PLE represents a personalized learning approach that integrates the various tools, resources, and relationships which enable me to learn and reach my objectives. It is a place where I can organize, research further, and expand my knowledge in directions that fit my needs and interests.

I use my PLE as a blend of digital tools and platforms in the search for information, organization of insights, and the creation of meaningful work. The tools make it easy for me to stay informed and effectively manage my learning: from search engines and online libraries used in research to note-taking applications and digital organizers. Social media and professional networks also provide opportunities to interact with thought leaders and peers, creating some sense of community that would allow collaboration and feedback to flow.

Avatar photo

About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

Highlights from The Week-U Experience

Watching the series ‘The Week’ was one of those pivotal moments in my studies that really left an indelible mark. It initially came as a shock-an unfiltered exposure to the stark reality of the environmental crisis that we are facing. It was as if a certain curtain was lifted, showing just how immense the challenges ahead were; it stirred within me a tendency of urgency. The weight of this realization was heavy, as it threw the door open to my future in the most personal manner.

As I went further in the series, I did start to feel my perspective slowly shift. The tenacity of the depth and complexity of the issues shed light on uncomfortable truths but also planted seeds of resiliency. I realized true awareness isn’t merely about understanding the problem; it’s about internalizing the urge for change in our ways and questioning the systems that got us here. Such process actually helped me go through some reflection of my own personal choices and values in a way I hadn’t done before.

By the end, I had reawakened to the hope, which is not candid optimism but a well-grounded belief in our assembled potentials for change. Examples of real solutions and the commitment of people working toward a sustainable future reminded me that I am not alone in this journey. It has inspired me to look ahead with resolve, knowing full well even the smallest actions can contribute to a larger movement.

I look forward to the years ahead, when I will be able to reflect on having done something about these challenges-together with others-constructing a future in which we can believe.

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About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

A PERSONAL REFLECTION ON MY PROFESSIONAL FUTURE

In today’s world, digital technology and engineering innovation shape nearly every aspect of our lives, from how we communicate and travel to the way we work and solve critical global challenges. The digital revolution has accelerated our capacity for change and created unprecedented opportunities, especially in fields like sustainable engineering and green technology. For those of us entering the professional sphere now, these advances open doors to careers that are more impactful and versatile than ever, challenging us to adapt, learn continuously, and contribute to a rapidly transforming landscape.

This era of interconnected digital systems and cutting-edge engineering is one of both opportunity and responsibility. On one hand, it equips us with the tools to tackle issues like resource depletion, pollution, and climate change, yet on the other, it demands a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical innovation. The need for thoughtful, sustainable solutions in areas such as materials recovery, clean energy, and recycling is more pressing than ever, and I feel privileged to be entering this field at such a transformative time.

Reflecting on my professional future, I’m aware that choosing the right career path will be a significant decision, blending my interests, skills, and vision for a fulfilling life. As I consider my options, three main paths stand out: pursuing a PhD, working in industry, or launching a start-up.

Each of these paths offers unique challenges and growth opportunities. A PhD would be appealing if my master’s thesis inspires further research, allowing me to delve deeply into sustainable materials recovery and contribute knowledge that drives the field forward. On the other hand, starting a company could be highly rewarding if I find a scalable solution addressing a clear market need within sustainability. The potential to innovate in an entrepreneurial setting is exciting, especially if it leads to meaningful environmental impact.

However, at this point, working in a company seems the most appealing to me. This path would allow me to gain valuable hands-on experience, apply my technical knowledge in practical scenarios, and understand the industry’s broader challenges and nuances. Moreover, working within an established company offers the stability I value, providing a balance between my professional ambitions and my personal life goals. In the long term, I envision building a life in Italy, where I can contribute to the fields of materials recovery and recycling, aligning with my desire to make a positive impact on environmental sustainability.

This vision of my future combines meaningful work in a dynamic field with the stability and lifestyle I seek, making me excited to embark on this journey.

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About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.

Professional Introduction: Nicola Carletti

Hello everyone!

My name is Nicola Carletti, and I’m from Italy. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical and Materials Engineering, where I developed a strong foundation in the fundamentals of materials science and chemical processes. Through my studies, I discovered a particular interest in sustainable engineering solutions, especially in materials recovery and recycling. I chose AMIR Master program to specialize in metals recovery from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and batteries. As renewable energy and electric vehicles expand, the recycling of these technologies becomes crucial for resource conservation and environmental sustainability. My goal is to develop efficient methods to recover valuable metals, addressing both resource depletion and pollution concerns. This program offers the technical knowledge and experience I need to contribute meaningfully to this field.

Avatar photo

About NICOLA CARLETTI

As a passionate Chemical and Materials Engineering student, I am committed to applying my knowledge and talents to make a difference in the field of science and technology. I am driven by the desire to contribute to a sustainable world with a more circular economy, and I am eager to apply my skills in roles that align with this mission. I am currently enrolling in the MSc program Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling (AMIR) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid.