I strongly recommend that you start applying for internships as soon as possible to companies and to not be intimidated to apply to large companies as well.
Name: Mackenzie Young (Cohort 9)
Major: Mechanical Engineering
What Community College did you transfer to the University of Maryland from?
Anne Arundel Community College
Why did you decide to attend the University of Maryland and the A. James Clark School of Engineering?
I was particularly drawn to the school's emphasis on real-world problem solving and innovation, which aligns with my passion for engineering.
Where was your internship located? (City, State)
Elkridge, MD
Give a brief description of your main roles and responsibilities during your internship.
During my internship, I was responsible for a variety of tasks. I handled writing invoices, ensuring that billing was accurate and completed on time. I also met with customers, helping to understand their needs and providing support when necessary. In addition, I assisted the technicians, gaining hands-on experience and learning from their expertise in technical operations.
How did you find the internship/co-op? What was the interview process like? What advice do you have for students in their search process?
I applied to my internship on Handshake and there were two rounds of Zoom interviews.
How was your engineering education relevant to your internship?
Given I worked within the power division, most of my mechanical engineering classes were applicable. More specifically, my electronics, thermodynamics, and fluids classes were very useful in understanding how the engines operated.
What were your non-technical takeaways from the internship?
During my internship, I gained valuable professional experience and learned how to operate effectively in a professional environment.
How has the internship experience changed or contributed to your academic or career goals?
My internship shifted my career goals by giving me hands-on experience and insight into the industry. It opened my eyes to new career paths I hadn't considered before and showed me the potential for growth in certain roles. This experience has made me more confident about pursuing future job opportunities that align with my strengths and interests.
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