Name: Manogna Rayasam

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Data Science

Current Class Level: Masters Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UMBC Career Center

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

Title of position: Data Visualization & Reporting Analyst

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

In my internship as a Data Visualization & Reporting Analyst with UMBC's Career Center, I work closely with student data to support decision-making and improve the visibility of student career outcomes. My day-to-day responsibilities include analyzing career outcomes data, preparing accurate metrics for the center's outreach materials, and assisting in the migration of reporting processes. I also build interactive Tableau dashboards that help staff easily understand trends, employer engagement through Handshake, and overall student success after graduation. Through this role, I've been able to combine data analysis with visualization to create tools that make a meaningful impact across campus.

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

I learned about this position through Handshake and quickly submitted my application because the role aligned well with my interests in data analysis and visualization. In addition to applying online, I reached out to Christine Routzahn with a cold email to express my enthusiasm for the position and to learn more about the opportunity. Shortly after, I was invited for an interview. The interview went well, and I was selected for the role, giving me the opportunity to join the team this semester.

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?

What I've enjoyed most about my position is the strong guidance and mentorship I receive, especially from Christine Routzahn. Her clear expectations and weekly task planning help me stay organized and confident in my work. I also appreciate the flexibility within the role, which allows me to approach tasks in an innovative and unique way while still having support whenever needed. This combination of structure, clarity, and creative freedom has made the experience both meaningful and motivating.

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

I believe I've made a meaningful impact through my work by transforming complex career outcomes data into clear, accessible insights that support decision-making across campus. The Tableau dashboards I created help staff quickly understand trends, employer engagement, and student success, enabling them to better communicate UMBC's career outcomes. I've also contributed to improving reporting processes and ensuring accurate data for flyers and outreach materials. By combining analysis with effective visualization, I've helped the Career Center present information in a way that is both actionable and easy to interpret.

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

My advice to another student seeking an internship is to be proactive and intentional throughout the process. Most importantly, stay confident and open to feedback. Opportunities often come to those who take initiative, show curiosity, and aren't afraid to put themselves out there.

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 guided me at every step, helping me grow both technically and professionally.