Intern of the Week: Vidhi Panchal

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:24:33 -0400
activecharge, bwtech, data-analytics, information-systems, intern, intern-of-the-week, internship, iotw

Name: Vidhi Panchal

Pronouns: she/her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2023

Major: Information Systems

Current Class Level: Master's Student

This semester I completed a(n)...: Co-op

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): ACTIVEcharge

Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland

Title of position: Data Analytics Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

In my role as a Data Analyst Intern at ActiveCharge, my primary focus centers around the meticulous analysis of both weather data and wind turbine data. Our central project aims to develop a robust model for the accurate detection of faulty wind turbine blades. Here's a glimpse into a typical day in my internship:

I commence my day by ensuring that the weather and wind turbine data is not just collected but also thoroughly cleansed and prepared for in-depth analysis. This initial step is pivotal to ensure the quality and accuracy of our subsequent work.

The core of my responsibilities lies in the comprehensive exploration of the data. I engage in performing rigorous statistical analyses and craft visual representations that illuminate potential patterns and correlations, particularly with respect to turbine blade faults. This process requires a keen eye for detail and a data-driven mindset.

In my capacity as an intern, I also play a key role in keeping the team informed and updated. Regularly, I share progress reports, highlighting our achievements, and addressing any challenges or roadblocks that we may encounter. Effective communication is an essential component of our collaborative efforts.

In summary, my internship at ActiveCharge provides an exciting and engaging opportunity to immerse myself in the world of data analysis and model development, all within the context of renewable energy solutions. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, and I am delighted to contribute to a project that has the potential to make a positive impact in the field.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I discovered the opportunity for my position through an active job search during my search for a summer internship. I had been proactively networking and reaching out to various companies via email. Fortunately, I came across ActiveCharge, and it happened that they were actively looking for a Data Analyst Intern. After an initial email contact, they conducted an interview, and I was fortunate to secure the position.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

UMBC Career Center, Handshake

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

One of the most gratifying aspects of my position and being part of this organization is the ever-changing nature of my daily tasks. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities, allowing me to continually learn and grow. This variety keeps the work engaging and exciting, and it has provided me with a broad range of experiences in a relatively short period. It's been a valuable opportunity to expand my skill set and adapt to different aspects of the data analysis field, making it a truly rewarding experience.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

When seeking an internship or similar experience, my advice is to prioritize active networking by engaging with professionals and attending industry events, which can open doors to valuable connections. Be persistent in your application efforts, as rejections are common; keeping a consistent application schedule is crucial. Tailoring your applications to specific companies by conducting thorough research showcases your genuine interest. Lastly, start your internship search early to increase your chances of securing the right opportunity.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

The Career Center was an invaluable resource throughout my job search. Their guidance and support helped me navigate the complex world of applications, interviews, and networking. I particularly appreciated their personalized advice and the wealth of opportunities they exposed me to.

Do you want the chance to be the next Intern of the Week? Fill out this form to be considered!