Name: Hira Khan
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Biology
Current Class Level: Junior
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Kennedy Krieger MCH-LEARN Program
Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland
Title of position: MCH-LEARN Scholar
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
The day-to-day experiences at Kennedy Krieger's MCH-LEARN program involved weekly lectures and presentations from established professionals in the public health field, ranging from organizations such as the NIH to CDC. In a typical day, we had our Research Seminar and Undergraduate Research Accountability Group, where students collaborate with mentors to work on their summer research poster for presentation at the Johns Hopkins University CARES Symposium and abstract writing for ABCRMS. Additionally, collaborative Friday Professional Development and Advocacy seminars covered tips for building a network, maintaining professionalism, job searching, and discovering personal strengths and weaknesses. Fridays also included CDC Optimal Opportunities for Prevention to Promote Health, where students from different programs prepare interactive presentations on public health issues. MCH-LEARN also provided opportunities to attend conferences such as Room to Grow and Maryland Developmental Disabilities Day, as well as a visit to NIH's Career Fair.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I first heard of Kennedy Krieger through personal experience with my family using their services. However, I did not know they offered internship opportunities until I found the UMBC Public Health major's internship page. I began searching for internships during the fall semester and submitted my application a week after it opened.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
I used UMBC's Career Center to tailor my resume for this position. Being proactive and aware of internship deadlines was crucial since they can easily slip by.
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I have truly enjoyed the experience of conducting research and presenting at a high level. This was my first time engaging in such activities, and I grew to enjoy public speaking. I also loved the supportive environment at Kennedy Krieger, where people go above and beyond to guide and help you every step of the way.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
My research poster focused on children facing ADHD and anxiety. While presenting my research at CARES, many students and educators expressed how these issues need more attention in our society. Students with ADHD or anxiety shared how they wished people were more knowledgeable about their experiences. It made me realize my research was addressing an overlooked aspect of people's lives.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Stay proactive and determined. It can be challenging to search for internships during a busy semester with difficult courses and extracurricular activities, but it is worth the effort. Build long-lasting relationships at your internship and think about the experiences you want to explore. For instance, as a Biology major, I wanted to explore the public health field, and this internship gave me valuable insight. Don't feel discouraged if you don't have the "correct" major or experience—try anyway! You never know what opportunities it may lead to.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
"I liked building connections and feeling the power of community here. I think UMBC's Career Center connects to you personally and provides personalized resources and support to help you find the internship that matches you."
Name: Tomisin Akinlosotu
Pronouns: He/Him
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Information Systems
Current Class Level: Junior
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Lockheed Martin
Location of the Organization (City, State): Grand Prairie, Texas
Title of position: Systems Engineering Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my recent internship at Lockheed Martin, I supported one of the company’s newer programs, which challenged me and deepened my passion for the defense field. A typical day involved using project management tools and workflow automation to streamline processes. I also learned from the cybersecurity team, gaining insights into assessing supplier risks and vulnerabilities. This hands-on experience provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of defense manufacturing.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I obtained this position at a career fair, which I believe was all by God’s grace. I actively engaged with professionals at the event, making meaningful connections. My efforts paid off when I was offered an interview, which went extremely well. I heard back from the company the same night that I had secured the position.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
Career Fairs, Alumni Networking, Student Organizations/Scholar Groups, LinkedIn, and other social media.
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
Lockheed Martin’s use of cross-functional teams brings together diverse perspectives and expertise, fostering innovation and problem-solving. Collaborating with professionals in cyber, systems, and supply chain management broadened my knowledge and enhanced my ability to approach challenges from multiple angles. Visiting Lockheed’s Camden, AR facility, where I witnessed the assembly of parts firsthand, was another highlight.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I made an impact through my work by assessing supplier risks and vulnerabilities, which strengthened supply chain management and enhanced operational security. By collaborating with the cybersecurity team, I identified potential risks and implemented measures to mitigate them. My efforts contributed to streamlining processes and improving workflow efficiency, driving positive outcomes for the program and organization.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Some advice I would give to a student seeking an internship is to attend career fairs and put yourself out there. Engage with professionals, ask questions, and express genuine interest in their work. These events are excellent opportunities to make meaningful connections and learn about potential opportunities. Networking is crucial—connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, attend relevant events, and seek informational interviews. Building a strong professional network can open doors to internship opportunities. Finally, stay persistent and positive. The process can be challenging, but with faith in God and persistence, nothing is too far to accomplish. Stay positive, keep applying, and continue improving your skills and resume.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
I valued collaborating with diverse teams, which deepened my understanding of the defense industry. The Career Center's support and resources were instrumental in preparing me for this opportunity, from resume building to interview preparation.
Name: Oluwasemilore Osinowo
Pronouns: She/Her
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Biological Sciences
Current Class Level: Senior
This semester I completed a(n)...: Research experience
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh—Circle Lab
Location of the Organization (City, State): Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Title of position: Research Assistant (Intern)
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my summer 2024 research internship at UPMC Children’s Hospital, I worked on a project that focused on how social media affects adolescent relationships and the role it plays in relationship violence. I helped recruit and interview teens about their experiences with social media and how it influences their relationships. We also spoke with caregivers of LGBTQ+ teens about how they talk to their children about healthy and unhealthy relationships.
A key part of the project involved the Engaging Together for Healthy Relationships (ETHR) model, which aims to prevent adolescent relationship abuse by building trust, empathy, healing, and resilience in families. The goal was to guide teens and their caregivers toward healthier relationship dynamics.
We conducted all interviews online, and we used AI to transcribe the interviews. I proofread and de-identified the transcripts to protect the participants’ privacy. I also used a software called Dedoose to code the interviews, helping us identify common themes and patterns in their responses.
In addition to working with teens and caregivers, I also interviewed doulas and community health workers (CHWs) about their experiences with clients who had faced intimate partner violence (IPV). These interviews shed light on the emotional challenges survivors face and how doulas and CHWs can better support them. We talked about ways to improve training for healthcare workers to help them provide better care for survivors, especially during pregnancy.
This experience gave me valuable skills in research and taught me more about the important role healthcare professionals play in supporting violence prevention and promoting healthy relationships.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I discovered the UPMC Children’s Hospital internship through Handshake in January 2024 and applied directly through the organization’s website. In April, I received confirmation that I had been selected for the position. A few months before my start date, I traveled to Pennsylvania to complete the necessary clearance requirements for onboarding. This process allowed me to be fully prepared for my role when the internship began.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
Handshake
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I enjoyed most about my position was the opportunity to meet people from various schools like Princeton, UPenn, Howard, etc. Learning about their diverse college experiences was really interesting and gave me new perspectives. I also loved talking to teenagers during the interviews. Since I was once a teenager myself, I found many of the topics we discussed relatable, which made the conversations more engaging. Additionally, I really appreciated the chance to shadow my PI, who is a pediatrician. It gave me valuable insight into the field of pediatrics, which is my passion.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I made an impact by creating a more engaging and comfortable environment for the teens during interviews, making it easier for them to open up and express themselves. As someone young who could relate to their experiences, I helped them feel understood and safe. In the specific lab I worked at, most researchers were young adults who weren’t very active on social media, so I was able to bridge the gap and bring a fresh perspective to our discussions about adolescent relationships and social media.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
My advice for another student seeking an internship is to start early, be proactive, and make your application show how excited you are about the opportunity. After applying on the organization’s website, send a follow-up email to show your passion for the position. Use resources like Handshake to find internships, and don’t worry if you don’t meet every requirement. Focus on your strengths and what makes you a good fit. Also, talk to mentors or professors for advice and take advantage of networking to learn from others.
Most importantly, don’t give up. Keep applying, and if you face rejection, recognize what you can improve in your application. Remember, rejection is just redirection.
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 chance to connect with people from different schools and engage with teens in a meaningful way. I also really appreciated how the organization took great care of the interns’ well-being, making sure our meals, housing, and other needs were covered. The Career Center was instrumental in helping me find this opportunity through Handshake and guiding me through the application process.
]]>Name: Prabhakar Yasaswi Venuthurupalli
Pronouns: He/Him
Semester of Internship: Fall 2024
Major: Chemical & Biochemical Engineering
Current Class Level: Master's Student
This semester I completed a(n)...
Co-op
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):
WuXi Biologics
Location of the Organization (City, State):
New Jersey
Title of position:
Associate Scientist Co-op
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
In my CO-OP role within Downstream Process Development, I am responsible for purifying large biomolecules, including monoclonal antibodies and bispecific antibodies, through advanced chromatography (using AKTA systems) and UF/DF filtration techniques. My work is centered around optimizing these processes to enhance protein recovery while maintaining high product quality and scalability for commercial production. Operating on a GMP floor, I strictly adhere to GxP guidelines, follow SOPs, and engage in cross-functional collaboration to ensure all workflows meet regulatory compliance. Daily, I perform equipment calibration, maintenance, and monitoring of key parameters to uphold process consistency. I also follow Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and industrial safety protocols rigorously to maintain a safe working environment. My role requires meticulous documentation of quality control data, which supports traceability and provides insights for continual improvement across development processes.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I first learned about my current CO-OP opportunity in Downstream Process Development after meeting Dr. Frank Li, Executive Director at WuXi, during his guest lecture at UMBC. His presentation focused on career growth in biotech for chemical engineers, and afterward, I was fortunate to have an in-depth conversation with him about the transition from academia to industry and the essential skills needed for success in biotech. Encouraged by his advice, I submitted my application for the CO-OP position, tailoring my resume to highlight my experience in downstream processing and adherence to GMP standards. Shortly after, I was invited to begin a multi-stage interview process, where I was able to further elaborate on my technical expertise, particularly in protein purification and process optimization. My conversations with the interviewers, coupled with Dr. Li’s encouragement, led to an offer for the CO-OP position, marking an invaluable step forward in my career journey.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
UMBC Career Center, Career Fairs, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.), Alumni Networking, Student Organizations/Scholar Groups, Faculty Connections, Handshake, LinkedIn
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I’ve enjoyed most about my CO-OP position at WuXi is the hands-on experience I’ve gained in downstream process development, working with advanced techniques like chromatography and UF/DF to improve protein purification. Each day offers a new challenge and learning opportunity, allowing me to apply my academic knowledge in a practical, impactful way while deepening my understanding of GMP and regulatory standards. The team culture at WuXi has also been a highlight. I’ve found the collaborative environment and cross-functional support incredibly enriching. The organization emphasizes continuous learning and innovation, creating an atmosphere where I feel encouraged to grow professionally and personally.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe I have made a significant impact through my work in downstream process development by optimizing purification techniques and enhancing overall process efficiency. For instance, my efforts in refining chromatography and UF/DF methods have led to a 20% improvement in protein recovery, which not only ensures higher product quality but also contributes to the scalability of our processes for commercial production. Additionally, by actively adhering to GMP standards and participating in cross-functional collaboration, I have helped maintain a culture of compliance and continuous improvement within the team. My focus on data analysis and documentation has also reinforced the importance of traceability and quality control in our operations, ensuring that we meet regulatory requirements and maintain the integrity of our processes. Overall, I feel my contributions have supported both the technical and operational goals of the organization, helping to drive our projects forward successfully.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
For students seeking an internship or similar experience, my key advice would be to start early and actively explore opportunities that align with your career interests. Begin by utilizing your university’s career resources, attending career fairs, and networking with professionals in your field. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant coursework, projects, and skills that make you a strong candidate. Don't hesitate to reach out to professors and industry contacts for guidance and potential leads. Moreover, be proactive in preparing for interviews by researching the organization and practicing common interview questions, particularly those related to your technical skills and experiences. During interviews, express your genuine interest in the company and its work, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. Finally, remain open-minded about the roles you apply for; even positions that may not seem like a perfect fit can provide valuable experience and insights into the industry. Embrace the learning opportunities that come your way, as they can pave the path for future success.
Neha Nooka
She/her/hers
Fall 2024
Data Science
Master's Student
Internship
Signarama
Silver Spring, MD
Process & Marketing Systems Design Intern
As a Process & Marketing Systems Design Intern, I developed a chatbot for internal use, guiding team members through processes and improving onboarding and training efficiency by 20%. I also designed and implemented automation solutions for Trello boards, which enhanced task management efficiency by 35%. My work involved collaborating with the President of the organization to streamline workflows and create structured documentation.
I applied through the MTIP program, which I learned about in a LinkedIn post. I directly emailed the company and received a response the same day, setting up a meeting to discuss the position further.
UMBC Career Center, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms.
What I’ve enjoyed most is the opportunity to directly impact the team’s efficiency and productivity. Developing a chatbot for internal use and automating workflows in Trello were particularly rewarding because they led to noticeable improvements in the team’s operations. Collaborating directly with the President and seeing tangible results made the experience incredibly fulfilling.
I believe I’ve made a significant impact by improving onboarding and training processes, boosting efficiency by 20%. Additionally, the automation solutions I implemented increased task organization and workflow efficiency by 35%, helping the team work more effectively and adopt a structured approach to project management.
MTIP is an excellent resource for finding internships, so I recommend checking it regularly and applying to opportunities that align with your interests. The application process is simple and intuitive. Apart from using MTIP, focus on building both technical and problem-solving skills. Look for ways to improve efficiency in any role and take on projects that challenge you to learn new tools or platforms—this can make you stand out to employers.
The Career Center played a vital role in guiding me through my internship search, offering valuable resources and networking opportunities. I enjoyed applying my skills to real-world problems, such as developing a chatbot and automating workflows, which enhanced the team’s efficiency and productivity.
Collaborating directly with the President of Signarama allowed me to gain hands-on experience and make meaningful contributions to the team. The Career Center’s guidance made the process of securing and succeeding in my internship seamless and rewarding.
]]>Name: Brian Temu
Pronouns: He/Him
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Data Science
Current Class Level: Master's Student
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): University of Maryland, Baltimore - Institute of Genome Science
Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland
Title of position: Laboratory Assistant/Data Science Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship as a Laboratory Assistant at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, I was deeply involved in research focused on bacterial vaginosis (BV). My day-to-day responsibilities included a variety of tasks integral to the ongoing research efforts. One of my key roles was learning and utilizing a bioinformatics tool called antiSMASH, which was used to analyze biosynthesis gene clusters from various patient samples. This involved inputting genetic data, running analyses, and interpreting the output to identify potential biosynthetic pathways contributing to bacterial activity in BV cases.
Beyond mastering antiSMASH, I expanded my knowledge through reading bio-research papers, which helped me understand the broader context of our work and stay updated on recent scientific findings relevant to bacterial genomics and microbial interactions. I also learned to navigate and utilize the Grid, a computational framework that supported complex data analysis tasks, enhancing the efficiency of our research process.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I first learned about the opportunity during the Spring Career Fair 2024, where I had the chance to meet the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) team. During our conversation, I inquired about any current open positions within their department. The team was very informative and encouraged me to express my interest via email. They provided detailed guidance on whom to contact and what information to include in my application.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
UMBC Career Center, Career Fairs, LinkedIn, or other social media platforms.
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I have enjoyed the collaborative environment. I was able to work with highly knowledgeable professionals in the field, and I took the opportunity to learn from their expertise.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I made an impact through my work as a Laboratory Assistant by contributing to critical research on bacterial vaginosis (BV). My use of the antiSMASH tool for analyzing biosynthesis gene clusters provided valuable insights that supported the team's understanding of BV. Learning and applying new tools like the Grid improved data processing, making our workflow more efficient.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
I would advise students to prepare as early as possible and start networking with targeted companies or organizations they wish to join. Additionally, don't be afraid to send cold emails—they can open doors to valuable opportunities.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
I enjoyed applying bioinformatics tools and learning lab techniques that enriched my understanding of microbial genetics. The Career Center’s guidance at the Spring Career Fair helped me secure this valuable opportunity.
Name: Sheila Muli
Pronouns: She/Her
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Political Science
Current Class Level: Senior
This semester I completed a(n): Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Morgan Stanley
Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, MD
Title of Position: Operations Analyst
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As an operations analyst on the cash equity team, I began by shadowing various departments within operations, including cash equity. Day-to-day, I attended networking events and collaborated with my intern team on an automation project using Alteryx and PowerBI to streamline the manual filtering of cash equity's daily fails file. I also worked independently on a data visualization project for the cash equity team, helping to identify trends for mitigation and providing higher management with historical insights. Additionally, I scheduled coffee chats with executive directors, vice presidents, and managing directors to explore different career paths within the organization.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I first learned about the opportunity through signs around campus and attended a UMBC Connects event with Morgan Stanley in Fall 2023. At the event, I met members of Morgan Stanley's HR team, who reviewed my resume and provided feedback. Later, I attended a UMBC-hosted bus trip to Morgan Stanley, where I reconnected with the HR team. The application process included an online HireVue interview and a Superday interview. I submitted my application in September 2023 and received the offer in November 2023 for the Summer 2024 program.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
UMBC Career Center, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.).
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I enjoyed contributing meaningfully to the firm through an automation project that saved countless hours. Morgan Stanley fosters an inclusive and authentic culture while emphasizing community involvement, making it a rewarding and supportive environment.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
As a political science major in a finance institution, I brought a unique perspective to my intern group project, focusing on the bigger picture and amplifying team collaboration. My initiative to identify and address gaps in data visualization for the Cash Equity team created a lasting impact, improving processes and providing valuable insights for leadership.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Networking is essential—maintain your connections and attend UMBC events. Be authentic in your pursuits, as opportunities that align with your true self will lead to growth and success.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
"My summer at Morgan Stanley was a unique experience that allowed me to contribute to impactful projects and connect with professionals at all levels. I'm grateful for UMBC's resources and events like UMBC Connects, which helped me discover and secure this opportunity."
Name: Robin Paranilam
Pronouns: He/Him
Semester of Internship:Summer 2024
Major:Computer Engineering, Mathematics, and Statistics
Current Class Level:Senior
This semester I completed a(n):Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab
Location of the Organization (City, State):Laurel, MD
Title of position:Systems Engineering Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
I worked on a variety of projects during my summer at APL, including helping with software modernization for some in-house analysis tools, formulating a Gen-AI based knowledge tool that would help people within my group get the resources they need, and applying DevOps principles to help automate software processes relating to the work my group did. I also participated in an intern project where my group focused on creating solutions to make APL more accessible. Outside of these projects, I was able to participate in other things going on at the lab. I took a machine learning course, networked throughout the lab, attended various professional development seminars/programs, and I was even able to meet with the director of APL, Ralph Semmel, who actually completed his PhD at UMBC.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I went to a UMBCConnects session with APL in the fall before my internship. They collected my resume, and I continued to apply online to any APL job postings that interested me. Around December, a group supervisor at APL contacted me about interning in his group and set up an interview. I was able to chat with some of the other engineers I'd be working with, and I received an offer afterward.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
UMBC Career Center, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.)
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I like that the work I do at APL is challenging yet applicable to modern-day problems, and I felt like I was contributing to my projects in a meaningful way. In addition, the people at APL were so friendly and open to helping me pursue any topics I was interested in. This allowed me to learn a lot from my experience and figure out what I really wanted to focus on in terms of a career in engineering.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I contributed to some essential deliverables for the main project I was working on, and I was able to also set the foundation for some of the newer, innovative research projects I helped develop. In addition, an intern project I worked on with other APL interns relating to making the lab more accessible gained interest from leadership at the company, wanting to develop the concept further.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Keep applying and getting your resume out there, you never know what opportunities lie around you. Going to networking events and utilizing your resources, both within UMBC and externally, is crucial in today's market. There are plenty of tools and people available at UMBC to help you in your career development, and in the meantime, continue your self-development learn skills that apply to the career you want to pursue.
Name:Paul Panozzo
Pronouns: He/Him
Semester of Internship:Summer 2024
Major: Individualized Study
Current Class Level:Senior
This semester I completed a(n):Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):Baltimore Gas & Electric Co
Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland
Title of Position:Quality Control Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
In my department, I helped ensure that the workers in the field were performing their tasks as reported, safely and responsibly. This involved going out into the field with my department and observing people in action. Additionally, I was assigned several projects to work on within and outside of my department. All interns were grouped to coordinate on a project, culminating in a slideshow presentation detailing our experience and ideas. The company also organized numerous events to help us network with other branches.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I heard about this position from a family friend. I visited the company's website, where I found several internship postings and applied for all of them. I submitted my application approximately a week later, on October 20th of last year.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
Family friend
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I enjoyed meeting everyone in my department and seeing how genuinely passionate they were about their work.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I helped expedite the completion of several office tasks and assisted BGE in finding vendors for their annual Safety Expo.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
I believe that anyone applying for a position at this company should confidently showcase their skills and make their capabilities known.
Name: Keerthana Goskonda
Pronouns: She/Her
Semester of Internship: Summer 2024
Major: Chemical Engineering
Current Class Level: Master’s Student
This semester I completed a(n): Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Uplift Geosystems LLC
Location of the Organization (City, State): Halethorpe, Maryland
Title of Position: Process Engineering Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As a metal extraction-focused Process Engineering Intern at Uplift Geosystems LLC, I conducted experiments to optimize extraction techniques, involving detailed sample preparation, equipment setup, and consistent monitoring of reaction conditions. I participated in regular project reviews and team meetings to discuss obstacles and progress. My work included collecting and analyzing data to evaluate different methodologies, collaborating with my team to troubleshoot any challenges faced during testing. Keeping thorough records of all processes and outcomes was vital, and presenting my findings to the team provided constructive feedback. This hands-on experience emphasized the importance of teamwork in a research environment and deepened my understanding of metal extraction processes.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I discovered the Process Engineering Internship at a university career fair in early January and was immediately eager to apply. A week after the fair, I submitted my application, showcasing my previous undergraduate research on milling techniques. Following an interview where I presented my research ideas, I was offered the internship. During the internship, I continuously learned and contributed to the team, leading to a promotion to Process Engineering Intern, which expanded my responsibilities and expertise in metal extraction processes.
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?
The most enjoyable aspect of my role has been the hands-on practical lab work related to metal extraction. I found it incredibly rewarding to conduct experiments and observe real-time results. The process of analyzing and optimizing procedures was both challenging and exciting, as it allowed me to apply my academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. Additionally, I greatly valued the mentorship from my supervisor, which enriched my learning experience.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe I’ve made an impact by enhancing the efficiency of metal extraction processes, identifying areas of improvement, and recommending changes. My hands-on experimental work provided valuable data that contributed to better project outcomes. By actively engaging in team discussions, I helped foster a culture of continuous improvement and supported the achievement of our project objectives.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
My advice for students looking for an internship is to start early and take the initiative in searching for opportunities. Utilize resources such as career fairs, professors’ recommendations, and professional networking. Ensure that your resume and CV highlight relevant skills and experiences, and be prepared to discuss specific projects or coursework during interviews. Most importantly, maintain curiosity and be open to learning new things.
Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.
“I loved the hands-on experience in the lab and the mentorship from my supervisor, which greatly enhanced my knowledge. The Career Center, especially the 'Shattuck Internship Program,' provided me with a strong starting point for my career journey.”
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