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

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.

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.

UMBC Career Center, Handshake

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.

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.

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. 

Name: Ethan Cheung

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Summer 2023 

Major: Computer Science

Current Class Level: Junior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Research experience 

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Location of the Organization (City, State): Fulton, MD

Title of position: Software Engineering/Research Intern

Under the Cohort-based Integrated Research Community for Undergraduate Innovation and Trailblazing (CIRCUIT) Program at JHU APL, I had the opportunity to learn about and develop image processing software with my team (shoutout Icram and Amaiyah!) for cameras on the Lunar Vertex Lander for the Lunar Vertex Mission, which launches in 2024. This semester, we're also working on image projection and mapping on digital terrain models.

I heard about the CIRCUIT Program around October 2022 and applied to the CIRCUIT Program at JHU APL around January 2023.

Friend Referral

I enjoyed having the opportunity to contribute work to the Lunar Vertex Mission! Being able to work on a real-life problem/mission was super cool and an amazing opportunity to gain insight on software engineering processes. APL is also full of talented, amazing, and supportive people!

The features that my team and I worked on will be implemented into the app that we worked on as a new update. The space community doesn't have a tool with the features we're working on yet, so it's great knowing what we've built will be used by someone else!

Don't be afraid to ask for help; use all the resources that you have! Transitioning from an academic to research environment is tough. Research is difficult, so you or your mentor won't know exactly what to expect, but that's normal! You might be one of the first people to research your specific topic, so it's okay to feel unsure of your research processes.

Earning academic credit is helpful since I get to fulfill one of my major requirements!

Name: Sanjida Shehrin

Pronouns: she/her

Semester of Internship: Summer 2023

Major: Computer Science

Current Class Level: Junior

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

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

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

Title of position: Contract Management Intern

During my internship, I had the privilege of working at BGE. My role primarily involved collaborating, attending team meetings, networking, and learning different skills. I was continuously learning and developing new skills related to data management and Power BI, which were essential for my role. A very important part of my internship was networking. BGE organized events which allowed me to meet people ranging from those who work in the field to the company CEO. Building professional relationships within the organization allowed me to learn from experienced colleagues and mentors.

The process of obtaining my position was fairly smooth. I first learned about the opportunity at a scholars event held in October. During the event, I had the chance to connect with representatives from the organization and gain a deeper understanding of the role and its requirements. Intrigued by the position, I decided to submit my resume shortly after the event. In January, I received a positive response, and I was invited to participate in a phone interview. This interview served as an important step in the selection process, allowing me to discuss my qualifications, experiences, and enthusiasm for the position with the hiring team.

Student Organizations/Scholar Groups

During my internship at BGE, I had the opportunity to work with the contract management group, and what I enjoyed most about my position and the organization was the chance to gain hands-on experience in the corporate field. It allowed me to apply the theoretical knowledge I had acquired in my studies to real-world situations. Additionally, I appreciated the supportive and collaborative environment at BGE, where I had the chance to learn from experienced professionals who were always willing to mentor and guide me. Overall, the combination of practical experience and the positive work culture made my time at BGE both enjoyable and educational.

During my internship at BGE, I believe I made a meaningful impact through my involvement in organizing the safety expo. This event played a crucial role in promoting safety awareness and best practices within the organization. By coordinating various aspects of the expo, such as planning the schedule, arranging informative sessions, and ensuring the event ran smoothly, I helped create an environment where employees and contractors could learn and engage with safety topics.

The advice I would give another student who is seeking an internship is to utilize their personal and professional networks to seek out potential internship leads. Attend career fairs, join relevant student organizations, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn.

My internship not only allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to the real world but also opened doors to new experiences and connections. Earning internship credit was a tangible validation of my growth, and the guidance from the Career Center was invaluable in shaping my career path.

Name: Sai Manikanta Lava Kumar Sanisetti

Semester of Internship: Summer 2023

Major: Health Information Technology 

Current Class Level: Master's Student

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

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

Location of the Organization (City, State): Gardena, California 

Title of position: Intern

During my internship in operations management, my primary focus was on data analysis and identifying the underlying causes of various operational issues. Day-to-day, I would delve into datasets to uncover insights that could lead to process improvements. My responsibilities encompassed designing process flows, identifying gaps in existing processes, and formulating strategies to address them.

I actively contributed to the development of new processes, seeking ways to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Additionally, I played a role in the development of new products, ensuring that the operational aspects were well-integrated and optimized. One exciting aspect of my role was presenting demos of these new processes and products to clients, showcasing how our solutions could benefit their operations.

Overall, my internship experience provided me with invaluable insights into operations management, data analysis, and process optimization. It allowed me to put theoretical knowledge into practice and make a tangible impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization's operations.

I worked for the same organization back in India, one of the Associate Vice President's forwarded my resume to the USA branch, and after going through a three round interview (each round is for an hour), I was selected.

Connections in my previous organization.

I found the most enjoyment in my position from the opportunity to engage in data analysis and problem-solving in the field of operations management. Pinpointing the underlying causes of challenges and proposing creative solutions was both intellectually stimulating and gratifying. Moreover, being actively involved in tasks like process design, new product development, and client presentations gave me a well-rounded understanding of operations. The organization's dedication to nurturing learning and providing hands-on experience contributed significantly to my positive experience. All in all, the blend of meaningful tasks and a supportive work culture made my time with the organization truly enjoyable.

Through my work, I believe I've made a significant impact by leveraging data analysis and problem-solving skills to identify and address operational challenges within the organization. One notable achievement was the identification and resolution of substantial data deviations through in-depth analysis. By delving into the root causes of these deviations, I not only helped ensure data accuracy but also contributed to more informed decision-making. This effort, coupled with my contributions to process design, new product development, and client presentations, has played a role in enhancing the overall effectiveness of the organization. I feel that my efforts have not only brought tangible improvements but have also contributed to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the company.

Reflecting on my 8-year tenure in the global health information technology sector, I recognize that my career trajectory may not align directly with that of an aspiring intern. Nevertheless, the foundational counsel for individuals seeking internships possesses universal relevance. Regardless of one's background, cultivating professional connections emerges as a pivotal strategy—leveraging networks can yield invaluable insights and potential referrals that may otherwise remain untapped. Navigating the intricate landscape of internship searches necessitates a deliberate approach: identifying roles that resonate with one's professional aspirations and adeptly shaping applications to mirror this alignment.

In this pursuit, the cultivation of essential skills assumes precedence—an amalgamation of technical acumen and interpersonal proficiencies serves as a compelling testament to a candidate's potential. The investment in refining interview techniques warrants due recognition; this encompasses not solely the rehearsal of responses to standard inquiries but also the adept articulation of distinctive strengths and perspectives. A noteworthy facet that warrants emphasis is the demonstrable impact of showcasing project or work experiences, which effectively underscores practical competencies and proactive involvement.

Despite potential deviations in my personal trajectory, the delineated steps herein possess the capacity to embolden any aspiring individual's endeavor in securing an internship. These steps facilitate skillful navigation through the multifaceted terrain of securing such opportunities.

The organization's structure and approach resonate with me, and I hold a positive view of it. I find it noteworthy that I am under the guidance of a Director who plays a pivotal role in mentoring me throughout various processes. Additionally, the active partnership with the Career Center serves as a valuable resource for obtaining comprehensive insights into potential career pathways.

Name: Ariel Agustin

Pronouns: He/him

Semester of Internship: Summer 2023 

Major: Environmental Science

Current Class Level: Senior

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Northrop Grumman Corporation

Location of the Organization (City, State): Linthicum, MD

Title of position: Global Supply Chain Specialist: Procurement (Planner)

My internship was mainly remote. I went into the office maybe less than 5 times throughout my 10-week internship. My day-to-day responsibilities included: cleaning up Purchase Order Histories, renewing/following up with C832 forms for Suppliers, attending virtual meetings for weekly/quarterly performances/goals, creating a Planner Guide, and emailing/calling to coworkers about status of items.

It all started at the UMBC Career Fair in Fall 2022. I dressed up in a suit with a laptop case bag with resumes inside and a pool cue billiard case. I heard from the Resume Help workshop that Northrop Grumman was a Gold Hire, which means they hire a lot of students from UMBC. The first stall I visited was them, and I got really lucky that I was one of the first ones in line. NG had two more career events that I attended and networked with the same person I saw at the fair. From there, she told me to apply to any positions that interest me. There were no internships, only full time positions, and I got rejected from them. Fortunately, in that rejection letter, they told me it's because I'm a student that cannot work full time hours but that they'd take me in as an intern, which they sent me a link for to submit an application. And I got accepted. 

UMBC Career Center, Career Fairs, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.)

I loved that it was remote and the feeling of job security post grad.

I believe I made an impact by cleaning up old issues that no one wanted to fix because everyone is focused on cleaning up current issues instead of issues from the past.

Put your best foot forward. First impressions are everything. Dress to impress. I also got lucky because the person who scouted me and is my current manager used to be a state champ billiards pool player (I think) so when she saw my billiards case + my attire + my resume + my professionalism got my foot in the door. From there, be personable. Smile, laugh, engage. 

You might think the Career Center won’t help much, but their help can get you closer to landing an internship/job. Take any and all help that you can get.