Intern of the Week: Varshini Rao

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 12:30:36 -0400
computer-information-technology, constellation-energy, data-analyst, developer, intern, intern-of-the-week, internship

Name: Varshini Rao

Pronouns: she/her

Semester of Internship: Summer 2023

Major: Computer/Information Technology

Current Class Level: Master’s Student

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

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

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

Title of position: Summer intern in AMP-IT. Front-end developer and data analyst.

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

During my internship, I was tasked with analyzing user usage patterns on a specific webpage, with the goal of enhancing the user experience through interface improvements. My day-to-day responsibilities primarily revolved around understanding user behavior, ideating potential UI changes, and implementing these improvements.

I started by collecting and analyzing data on how users interacted with the webpage, identifying pain points, and areas that needed improvement. I then brainstormed ideas to make the webpage more user-friendly, focusing on easier navigation and comfortable browsing, including efficient result filtering.

One of my key tasks was to create a mock-up presentation that showcased the proposed UI changes. To ensure that the changes would align with the needs of the end-users, I arranged meetings with both the IT and business teams. These teams were the primary users of the webpage, and their input was crucial in the decision-making process.

During these meetings, I presented my ideas and mock-ups, seeking feedback and insights from the teams. Through collaboration and open communication, we collectively shortlisted upgrades that resonated with both teams.

Once the changes were approved, I leveraged my front-end UI development skills to implement these modifications to the webpage. This phase involved coding in HTML, CSS, Javascript, and C# to bring the proposed improvements to life.

In summary, my internship experience was a dynamic process of data analysis, ideation, collaboration, and hands-on implementation. It provided me with a comprehensive understanding of user-centric design and the importance of bridging the gap between technical and business teams to create effective solutions.

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

I looked through internship openings on numerous platforms until I found this one on the company's website, where I then submitted my application. They looked over my application and invited me in for an interview.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

LinkedIn or other social media

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

What I've enjoyed most about my position and the organization is the opportunity to make a tangible impact. Being entrusted with the task of analyzing user habits and improving the webpage's interface has been incredibly rewarding. It's fulfilling to see how small changes can lead to a smoother and more enjoyable user experience.

Moreover, the collaborative environment within the organization has been a standout aspect. Working closely with both the IT and business teams allowed me to gain insights from diverse perspectives. The open exchange of ideas and feedback fostered a sense of camaraderie, making the entire process not only productive but also enjoyable.

Overall, the combination of meaningful work and a supportive organizational culture has made my internship experience both enriching and fulfilling.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

I believe I've made a meaningful impact through my work by enhancing the user experience of the webpage. By analyzing user habits and implementing user-friendly interface changes, I have contributed to making the web page more accessible and efficient for its users. This has likely led to increased user satisfaction, improved navigation, and a smoother browsing experience.

Moreover, by actively involving both the IT and business teams in the decision-making process, I've helped bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. This collaborative approach not only ensured that the changes met the actual needs of the end-users but also fostered better communication and understanding between different departments within the organization.

In summary, I believe my work has contributed to improving user satisfaction and facilitating effective cross-team collaboration, ultimately making a positive impact on the organization as a whole.

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

I would offer the following advice to a fellow student seeking an internship or similar experience:

Start Early: Begin your internship search well in advance. Many organizations have application deadlines, and the competition can be fierce. Starting early allows you to explore a wider range of opportunities.

Research Thoroughly: Understand the industry and companies you're interested in. Research their culture, values, and the type of work they do. Tailor your applications to align with their specific needs and mission.

Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter: Your resume and cover letter are your first impression. Make sure they are well-structured, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and are tailored to the internship you're applying for.

Stay Professional: Once you secure an internship, maintain professionalism. Be punctual, take initiative, communicate effectively, and seek opportunities to learn and contribute.

Be Open-Minded: Be open to internships that might not seem directly related to your major. Skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are transferable and valuable in any field.

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

Working with the Career Center was a game-changer for me. It's where I discovered the power of guidance and support in shaping my career path. The insights and resources they provided helped me land my dream internship, where I honed my skills and gained real-world experience. The best part was seeing how classroom learning seamlessly blended with hands-on work. It reaffirmed my belief that education meets its true purpose when it bridges the gap between theory and practice. My journey wouldn't have been this rewarding without the Career Center's unwavering assistance. They transformed ambition into achievement.

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