Name: Hiya Patel

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Spring 2024

Major: Double Major in Information Systems and Financial Economics with An Accounting Certificate

Current Class Level: Senior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

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

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

Title of position: External Audit Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As an External Audit Intern at PwC, I assist with audit procedures such as reviewing financial statements, testing account balances, and evaluating internal controls. I attend team meetings to discuss progress, collaborate with clients to gather information, and help prepare workpapers. This role provides hands-on experience in auditing, enhancing my technical skills and client interaction.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I learned about the PwC External Audit Internship in summer 2024 when the application opened for the winter/spring 2026 session. I applied as soon as the application became available, submitting my resume and cover letter. After that, I waited for an interview to showcase my skills and interest in the position.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?:
PwC website

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?:
I’ve enjoyed most about my position as an audit intern at PwC is the opportunity to collaborate and communicate effectively with my team and clients. I’ve appreciated the supportive environment, where everyone is willing to help and guide me. Building connections with colleagues and learning from their experiences has been a valuable part of my internship.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
I believe I’ve made an impact through my work by contributing to the efficiency and accuracy of the audit process. By carefully assisting with audit procedures, reviewing financial statements, and collaborating with my team, I’ve helped ensure that clients receive thorough and reliable audit results. My attention to detail and proactive approach have allowed me to support the team effectively, allowing for smoother client interactions and timely project completion.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
My advice to student seeking an internship or similar experience is to focus on making connections rather than thinking you need to know everything. Attend career fairs, network on LinkedIn, and build relationships with professionals in your field. It’s not just about having the knowledge, but also about demonstrating your ability to connect, learn from others, and show your enthusiasm for the role. Building a network can open doors and provide opportunities that go beyond just your technical skills.

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 help me prepare for the application process, offering valuable resources, and providing the confidence to pursue this opportunity. Additionally, they supported me in adjusting to the challenge of balancing a full internship while taking six classes, helping me manage my time effectively and stay on track with both my academic and professional goals.

Name:
Ameen Salih

Pronouns:
he/him

Semester of Internship:
Summer 2024

Major:
Mechanical Engineering

Current Class Level:
Junior

This semester I completed a(n)...
Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):
Dejana Truck and Utility Equipment

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

Title of position:
Mechanical Engineering Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
I am currently an intern at Dejana Truck and Utility Equipment, where I’ve worked for nine months. My day-to-day includes designing truck fixtures and upgrades using SolidWorks. I also assist with business operations—managing Excel sheets, handling customer emails, and communicating with clients. This role has strengthened my technical, communication, and leadership skills.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I applied for the internship during the Spring 2024 semester after finding the opportunity on Handshake. I quickly scheduled an interview, toured the facility, and received an offer shortly after.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?
I used Handshake and the UMBC Career Center’s resume and interview prep resources.

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I’ve enjoyed most is seeing my designs come to life and knowing they’re making a real impact for customers.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I’ve completed numerous tasks that directly contribute to product development. Seeing the final results of my designs being delivered to customers is very rewarding.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Start early and apply widely—even to roles where you don’t meet every requirement. Use multiple platforms like Handshake, LinkedIn, and company websites. Tailor your resume, prepare for interviews, and make the most of networking opportunities.

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’ve enjoyed most about my position at Dejana is seeing my designs come to life and knowing they’re making a real impact for customers. The Career Center played a key role in my journey by providing resources like Handshake, which helped me find this opportunity, and offering guidance on resume building and interview preparation.”