Name: Yao Sun
Pronouns: She/Her
Semester of Internship:Spring 2024, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024
Major:Applied Developmental Psychology
Current Class Level:fourth year graduate student
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): ACT Inc.
Location of the Organization (City, State):Iowa City (Remote)
Title of position: Research Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship at ACT, I had the opportunity to work on a range of projects that allowed me to delve deeply into both research and industry practices. My day-to-day responsibilities included examining the validity and reliability of assessments related to social and emotional skills, refining existing items to improve their effectiveness, and analyzing data on SEL and ACT scores, including data specific to students receiving special education services. Additionally, I was involved in analyzing qualitative focus group interviews on equity-based test items, providing me with hands-on experience in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
What made this experience particularly valuable was the emphasis the team placed on my training and professional development. I was encouraged to engage with a variety of projects, which broadened my skill set and gave me a taste of industry work after having primarily worked in academic environments. This exposure allowed me to produce significant research outputs, some of which I submitted to a conference for presentation. Moreover, the insights I generated contributed to the development of a shortened version of one of the company's assessment tools, demonstrating the impact of my work within the organization.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I began my search for an internship position by exploring numerous opportunities on LinkedIn and applying to many that caught my interest. I applied for this particular position on March 26th and received an invitation for a digital video interview just a few days later. During this digital interview, I recorded myself responding to a series of questions. Subsequently, I was invited to an interview with the team on April 29th. Later that same day, I received an offer. I enjoyed the conversations with the team and found the opportunity compelling, so I decided to accept the offer.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?:
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?:
I really enjoy working at ACT because the team prioritizes my training, allowing me to develop my skills across a range of projects, from assessing the reliability of social and emotional skills assessments to analyzing data and focus group interviews. Coming from an academic background, this experience has also given me valuable insight into industry roles, broadening my understanding of applied research in a professional setting.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
I believe I’ve made an impact by generating research outputs that contributed to the development of a shortened assessment tool, providing data-driven insights to refine our approach. I also submitted my findings to a conference, sharing our work with a wider audience and further strengthening our research outcomes.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
When seeking an internship or similar experience, it's essential to find a position that aligns with your current skills and experiences, while also ensuring the organization’s mission resonates with your values. Additionally, consider the company culture before accepting the position, as a supportive and positive environment is crucial for your personal and professional growth. This alignment will not only make your experience more fulfilling but also increase your motivation and commitment, leading to greater success and development during your internship.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
What I appreciated most about my position at ACT was the chance to engage in diverse projects that sharpened my research skills, all within a supportive environment that prioritized my professional growth. The Career Center's resources, particularly those for resume building, were instrumental in helping me secure a role that aligned with my values and career goals.
]]>Name:Lokesh Kambhampati
Pronouns:He/him
Semester of Internship:Summer 2024
Major:Computer Science
Current Class Level:Sophomore
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Lockheed Martin
Location of the Organization (City, State):Bethesda, Maryland
Title of position: Software Engineer Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship, I focused on developing software solutions using ServiceNow and Python, particularly for financial development tasks. My day-to-day responsibilities included configuring ServiceNow applications to meet specific business needs, such as creating dynamic field messages and workflows, and conducting data analysis to ensure data accuracy. I collaborated closely with my team members, participated in regular meetings to discuss project progress and challenges, and contributed to preparing presentations. This experience allowed me to enhance my technical skills, improve my communication abilities, and gain valuable insights into both technical and business processes.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I obtained my position through the career fair at UMBC, where I had the chance to interact directly with representatives from various companies. I first learned about the opportunity when I visited the Lockheed Martin stand, where I spoke with one of their representatives about the available roles and my interest in their work. After discussing my skills and background, I handed over my resume, which highlighted my experience and suitability for the role. The representative provided me with a link to complete the rest of my application online. Following the career fair, I promptly submitted my application through the provided link, ensuring all necessary documents and information were included. This approach, combined with the face-to-face interaction at the fair, helped me secure the position.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
Career Fairs
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I most enjoyed the amount of knowledge I acquired from my team members, my manager, and the other interns as well!
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe I have made an impact through my work by contributing to the development and optimization of software solutions that improved the efficiency and effectiveness of our projects. My efforts helped streamline workflows and automate processes, reducing manual tasks and increasing productivity for the team.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
My advice is to keep pushing forward and never stop applying. Rejections are just stepping stones on your journey and don’t take them personally. Instead, embrace the mindset that if one company doesn’t see the value in your skills, another will recognize your potential and the unique strengths you bring. Stay determined, stay resilient, and trust that every “no” is one step closer to the right “yes.”
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.
What I liked most about my position was the opportunity to continuously learn from talented team members and collaborate on meaningful projects that made a real impact.
Name:Shriya Menon
Pronouns:She/Her
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major:Financial Economics, Information Systems minor
Current Class Level:Junior
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):T. Rowe Price
Location of the Organization (City, State):Owings Mills
Title of position: Global Client Account Services Analyst
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship at T. Rowe Price's Owings Mills branch as a Global Account Services intern, I had an exciting and hands-on experience in the Client Account Services division. My daily tasks included transferring substantial sums of money—sometimes up to $15 million—between various accounts and firms. We had numerous training and practice sessions to ensure accuracy and efficiency in these transfers. Alongside these responsibilities, I worked on three major projects, including a career progression initiative where I interviewed over 50 senior professionals and honed my skills with tools like Excel and PowerPoint. This project is now being used by the department as a job aid for both internal and external users and serves as a presentation tool for our project manager.
One of the highlights was the incredible networking opportunities. I connected with over 100 people across the firm, learning from their diverse experiences. The internship also offered fantastic extracurricular activities, with my favorite being a women's networking breakfast where I engaged with inspiring women from different departments. The culture at T. Rowe Price was vibrant and diverse, making every day an exciting and rewarding experience!
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I first learned about the position at T. Rowe Price during the UMBC career fair, where I engaged with representatives from the firm and explored their various finance opportunities. Intrigued by what I learned, I decided to apply through their online application, which consisted of three different parts. I submitted my application in mid-September. After successfully passing the application stage, I had a one-on-one interview with HR. Upon passing that, I was invited to a Superday interview, where I spent an entire day in back-to-back interviews with various professionals from different groups within T. Rowe Price. After successfully navigating this process, I received an offer to join the firm for a summer internship!
What resources did you use to find your current experience?:
Career Fairs, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.)
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?:
I've thoroughly enjoyed the passion for culture and diversity that T. Rowe Price promotes. The firm's culture, affectionately known as "T Rowe Nice," truly lives up to its name. It's incredibly easy to connect with and learn from anyone at the company, as everyone is eager to work with those who are curious and willing to learn. The array of activities outside of work is impressive, catering to a wide variety of interests. I joined a group focused on community service and volunteering, which led to one of my most rewarding experiences. We spent a day at a nonprofit second-hand store on the edge of Baltimore, where we sorted and organized stock for a few hours. It was a fulfilling and organic experience, working alongside people who share the same values and dedication to helping those in need.
What really stood out to me was how T. Rowe Price treated us as full-fledged employees rather than typical interns. For three months, they entrusted us with impactful and lasting projects and provided us with training and experiences that are usually reserved for full-time staff. We were actively involved in significant tasks, such as transferring funds and interacting with intermediary clients, which gave us a real sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of the business.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
I believe I've made an impact through my work and projects because what I worked on has become integral tools within the department. One of my projects is now being used as a job aid on the training website, accessible to all T. Rowe Price employees, which to me is clear evidence that my contributions are valued, lasting, and impactful! Additionally, my former manager continues to use this project as a presentation tool, further highlighting its importance and the trust they placed in my work!
Moreover, the collaborative nature of some projects, where I partnered with full-time employees, reinforced my belief that I was making a difference. Being treated as an integral part of the team and knowing that my work was contributing directly to the success of ongoing projects, rather than being just an intern assignment, assured me that my efforts were meaningful and impactful. The tangible results and continued use of my work within the company are how I know I've made a lasting impact!
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
My advice to another student seeking an internship or similar experience is to start early and be proactive in your search. Take advantage of resources like your school's Career Center, which can provide guidance, interview preparation, and connections to potential employers. When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the position you're targeting. During the internship, don't be afraid to ask questions, seek feedback, and take on additional responsibilities—this shows your eagerness to learn and grow. Lastly, focus on networking and building relationships with professionals across the organization; these connections can be invaluable for your future career!
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.:
What I liked most about my position at T. Rowe Price was the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that made a real impact within the department, along with the chance to network with a diverse range of professionals. I especially loved the emphasis on diversity and inclusion, which strongly aligned with my own ethics and morals. The numerous opportunities to grow and learn in such an inclusive environment were invaluable. The Career Center was instrumental in guiding me through the application process and preparing me for the interviews, helping me secure this incredible experience!
]]>You walk through the revolving door of the lobby toward the elevator, soaking in your surroundings—there’s not a familiar face in the building. You straighten out your suit, press #12, and take a deep breath: Once those doors re-open, your first week of work will officially begin.
Whether it’s your first position or your fifth, those first few days on the job can be more than a little intimidating. But with these key rules, you can get comfortable in your new surroundings, get up to speed quickly, and get off on the right foot with your new boss and co-workers.
One of your most important duties your first week is absorbing everything. Getting to know your company’s culture, the working and communication styles of your teammates, the problem projects, office politics , and department or company-wide goals means that you’ll be able to start your real work sooner (and be more effective when you do).
So, go to the new hire orientation, sign up for professional development classes, and attend all the team and office meetings you can, even if you’re not yet sure what’s going on or they don’t 100% pertain to your work. Also join in on the informal events. If you get asked to lunch, happy hour, or the office softball league (either as a participant or onlooker), say yes. It’s a great way to meet people, and it shows that you’re excited to be part of the team.
Do be careful, though, to balance your schedule—you want to have plenty of time to learn the ropes from your desk. The last thing you want is to look like you have too much to juggle, seem overwhelmed, or show up late to a commitment because you’re stuck somewhere else.
As you learn about new processes, projects, and people, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You need to get up to speed, and people will expect it from the new person on the team. Also take down detailed notes about everything you learn, even if it seems simple. Your brain is going to be on overload this week, and writing everything down will make sure you don’t have to ask the same question twice.
At the same time, don’t be afraid to contribute and add value—you do want to reinforce that you’re the right person for the job! No, you won’t know everything (nor should you act like you do!), but you can make suggestions in team meetings or brainstorming sessions, or ask questions like, “Has this been tried before?” And if you have a skill or ability that you’ve been hired to bring to the team, pipe up and share that knowledge. But be careful to read your audience. You don’t want to come on like gangbusters or step on someone’s toes.
There may be some down time during your first few days on the job as your boss and team adjust to having you there. But don’t sit around waiting for others to figure out tasks for you—volunteer to help your new teammates on a project. You’ll show initiative, you’ll build rapport with your boss and co-workers, and you’ll learn about expectations, procedures, and how things are done.
If your boss or co-workers give you advice or offer to help you with a task or project, take them up on it—yes, even if you’re totally capable of handling things yourself. It’s a great way to bond with your office mates, plus you may get valuable insight into the company’s expectations or a more efficient way to do the work you’ll be given.
It never hurts to have an experienced, knowledgeable, successful professional to bounce ideas off of and be groomed by, but it’s especially usefulwhen you’re the newbie. Look around. Who are the stars of the organization—the ones who radiate likability, confidence, and initiative? Introduce yourself, and pick their brains.
Undoubtedly, the people who make you feel most comfortable will become your go-tos as you navigate your first week. But remember the time it takes for people to help you out is time being taken away from their own tasks. Be sensitive to this by trying to figure things out for yourself first, asking a variety of people when you do have questions, and showing appreciation for everyone who helps you out.
Throughout the week, ask for periodic meetings with your boss (instead of popping in her office for every question you have!). In addition to getting her direction on projects and tasks, you should use this time to update her on what you’re learning and who you’re meeting with.
Ask questions like “Are there additional tasks I should be taking on or skills I should be learning?” and “Can you give me feedback on the project I just completed?” to show initiative, but also do a lot of listening, too. Your boss’ feedback and insight is going to be one of your greatest resources at this point—after all, you’re going to be spending the next weeks, months, and maybe even years working for her, and learning how she thinks early on will serve you well.
Surely you could rattle off things you loved (or loathed) about your last job and how this position compares—but don’t! You want to give yourself every opportunity to shine, and that means keeping your initial first week impressions to yourself. You’re in a new place, and this is a new opportunity, so embrace it and move forward!
Name:Prachi Kochar
Internship, Co-op or Research Site:Madison House Autism Foundation
Position Title: Research and Writing Intern
Major(s)/Minor(s): Psychology and Gender & Women’s Studies
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities.
As a Research and Writing Intern at Madison House Autism Foundation, my daily work primarily consists of doing research on various issues affecting adults on the autism spectrum. Using this research, I write articles for the MHAF blog that describe a specific issue concerning adults on the autism spectrum and explain possible solutions.
Describe the process of obtaining your internship, research, or co-op opportunity.
I applied for the job using UMBCWorks and then went in for an interview at MHAF with Stephen Robinson.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
By raising awareness about the issues that adults on the autism spectrum face, I hope that we are bringing more attention to an underserved population and increasing the amount of information available for them, because there is very little information or research out there.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Apply for everything that interests you; do not let your self-doubt stop you. Also, your previous work experiences can be very helpful - I also work at the Women's Center at UMBC, which involves writing blog posts, and when I went in for the interview, we discussed one of my blog posts.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position.
As a senior, it is a great way to end my undergraduate experience by taking what I have learned as a Psychology major and writer and using it to make a positive impact in the real world with MHAF.
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Want to be the next Intern of the Week? Make sure to fill out this form and stay tuned. New interns are announced every Friday!
Name:Mary Aronne
Internship, Co-op or Research Site: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Position Title: Space Weather Forecasting Intern
Major(s)/Minor(s): Environmental Science and Geography, B.S.
Describe your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day tasks, responsibilities, and assignments.
I analyze space weather, which means I look at satellite data of the sun and watch for solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and other events that could lead to a geomagnetic storm at Earth or impact NASA robotic missions throughout the solar system. My day to day responsibilities include maintaining a log of events, communicating with other space weather analysts, analyzing data, and running simulations if needed. I also have a research project that I work on with my mentor relating to space weather, which I do in conjunction with my regular space weather analysis.
Describe the process of obtaining your internship, research, or co-op opportunity.
I found this position through the NASA One Stop Shopping Initiative (OSSI). In addition, I completed an internship with the same group I am with now as a high school in the summer of 2012.
What have you enjoyed the most about your position or organization/company?
I enjoy being able to look at the Sun and observe what is happening on it in almost real time. It is exciting to be one of the first observers of an event, such as a big eruption on the Sun or the start of a geomagnetic storm at Earth.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
My work has an impact on NASA robotic missions throughout the solar system and at Earth, because we alert them to space weather activity.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
My advice is to apply early for an internship and get strong letters of recommendation that are relevant to the field you want to go into. Internships are competitive and there are often several rounds of the selection process.
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Want to be the next Intern of the Week? Make sure to fill out this form and stay tuned. New interns are announced every Friday!
]]>The U.S. Department of State 2015 Summer Student Internship Program (unpaid) is now accepting applications.
Click here (https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/379670800) to go directly to USAJobs to start the Gateway to State online application. Please note that the deadline to submit completed applications is October 17, 2014.
Please note this is an earlier-than-usual
deadline. We highly encourage you to complete and submit your
application as soon as possible.
This program offers U.S. citizen undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to participate in 10-week, unpaid internships that provide intensive educational and professional experience within the environment of America’s principle foreign affairs agency.
The unpaid internships are available at many of the over 270 U.S. embassies, consulates and missions to international organizations around the world, as well as at the Department of State in Washington, D.C. and other locations throughout the U.S. Participants gain first-hand, hands-on experience, and learn the realities of working in – and with – Foreign and Civil Service professionals who are at the forefront of America’s diplomatic efforts.
As an unpaid intern, you may have the opportunity to:
So consider spending your Summer 2015 with the U.S. Department of State, witnessing and participating in the formulation and implementation of U.S. foreign policy, working closely with the U.S. diplomats and civil servants who carry out America’s foreign policy initiatives. You’ll not only have an experience of a lifetime, you may even earn educational credit.*
* Applicants who are selected for a U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program (unpaid) can contact the selecting bureau, or the central Student Programs office, if they require further details about the program to support their request for academic credit.
Please visit http://careers.state.gov/intern/which-program-is-right-for-you for more information about the Summer 2015 Student Internship Program (unpaid), and to start the online application process via USAJobs. Please note that the deadline to submit completed applications is October 17, 2014.
We appreciate your interest in internships with the U.S. Department of State.
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