Professional Growth through Internships
London Internship Program
"Traveling to London has always been a dream of mine, but one that never seemed tangible. Yet this summer, not only was I able to go to London, but I had the opportunity to intern with a financial planning firm. Through the London Internship & Study Abroad Program, I interned at Germain Financial Associates, a partner practice of Saint James's Place. As an intern, I was able to assist in rolling-out a new financial product called "Putting Your Financial House in Order". By creating this document, clients are able to tangibly organize their financial information in case of an death in the family. It felt rewarding to work on a product that will not only be a long-lasting financial document at Germain Financial, but also give a sense of organization and structure in a time of grief for the clientele. In addition to the rewarding work experience I enjoyed the friendships I gained at Germain Financial Associates."
"There was no greater feeling waking up each day and going to work in a such a culturally-diverse city. I cannot explain how much living and working abroad changed my life. It will be an experience that I will continue to miss, but also cherish in the future."
Alex Colsten, FCP
London Internship Program, Summer 2011
For additional information about the London Internship Program and other Study Abroad experiences: http://www.studyabroad.purdue.edu/
Nordstrom Internship
"I spent my summer interning with Nordstrom. It was the best experience I have ever had because I was able to put my course work to use in an industry I was passionate about. I was able to connect with customers and build strong relationships while learning the daily tasks of a manager at Nordstrom. I enjoyed my experience at Nordstrom for many reasons, but two reasons that stick out to me were the hands on experience I gained and the culture Nordstrom has every day."
Samantha Arnold, SSM
Nordstrom Intern, Summer 2011
Shell Oil Company Internship
My internship with Shell Oil Company helped me strengthen my professional skills in a wide variety of ways. This occurred by providing a meaningful work experience that challenged me to use concepts from learned through my schooling, managing my time effectively, and learning how to adapt to the culture of such a big and diverse company.
There are a lot of factors that come into play when looking for a strong internship experience. One of the first factors is the actual structure of the internship. Shell held a variety of events for all of the interns across the United States which helped become acclimated to the company and help inform all interns of what Shell is all about. These events were headed by the HR department who were also extremely helpful with communicating the goals and objectives that Shell sets out for the internship process. A second factor would include the opportunity to network with such a wide variety of people. Shell has departments within the company that range from Sales/Marketing, Finance, HR, Supply Chain, Engineering, Trading, IT, etc. which puts you at a great advantage when you are trying to seek full-time employment in the future. A third and last factor that helps distinguish a strong internship is the compensation. A paid internship experience is very enticing because it not only helps pay for your living and traveling expenses but it also helps you save up to pay future educational expenses such as tuition. When a company is willing to offer a paid internship position it shows their interest in investing in you which could lead to a full-time position if it's available.
My internship was a positive experience because it challenged me as well as kept me engaged in my projects and tasks. I was able to work with a lot of different individuals who helped me out on projects and made encouraged me and made me feel comfortable with what I was doing. The opportunity to network with so many different people was also very valuable because it provide opportunities to see different perspectives on different positions within the company. Since this was my first professional experience it was great to be able to be a part of such a caring, organized, and successful company.
Mitchell Beerbower, SSM
Shell Intern, Summer 2011
Anthropologie Internship
This past summer I completed a retail internship at Anthropologie. I was a visual display intern at the Kansas City, Missouri store. I learned about store design and merchandising through this internship. This is an area of retail that many people who are in regular retail positions do not get to experience. As an intern, I created all the props and installed window displays as well as the floor displays. I learned the impact that merchandising has on the customer and how important it is to employ associates who possess a strong product knowledge.
My design skills improved so much with this internship. I learned about where my strength and weaknesses are and how to think way outside the box. Overall, my experience was very beneficial. I learned a lot about retail and merchandising. I know everything I learned from my internship with be very valuable for me down the road.
Katie Azzi, ADT
Anthropologie Intern, Summer 2011