Rubely Marte – Internship with Democratic National ConventionOver the summer, Rubely Marte, 21, had an internship with a grassroots campaign effort started by the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Rubely is from Bronx, New York, and is an IPED major in her senior year. Most of her time was spent “canvassing,” which entails going door-to-door to encourage people to register to vote and to inform the public about John Kerry’s message. This was an especially important aspect as it allowed Rubely to apply to real life the things she had learned in the classroom and to better acquaint herself with important domestic policies.
Although she has interned in the past at other places, Rubely feels that in applying for internships, it is important that one chose a place where one is able to learn information and skills relevant to one’s future career. Through her experience over the summer, she felt that the “exotic” IPED major requirements that made her knowledgeable about ideology, international affairs and policy could really open doors for the future. She expressed that “what you learn in the textbooks goes far beyond the classroom, and people will pay you for that knowledge.” Interning with the DNC was also how she was able to get her internship in Mayor DeStefano’s office, which she will be starting soon.
David Salonen – Internship with Product Ventures, Ltd
Over the summer, Industrial Design major, David Salonen, got an internship with Product Ventures, Ltd. in Fairfield, CT. A small company started by a UB alumnus, Project Ventures, Ltd. is essentially involved in structural package design. Simply put, this company is involved in the design and structure of packaging. The company is versatile and special in that it will provide services ranging from market research, testing, making functional models and focus groups, according to the client’s needs. David’s work with the company included sketching, photography of all different types of products, model-making, brain-storming and some light computer work such as photo corrections and formatting. His experience in the field has enhanced his classroom experience, as he is now more knowledgeable about what’s valuable to learn and what to work on. It has also allowed him to make contacts, work on his portfolio, know what programs companies usually use and see what professionals are expected to do. David feels that “any experience is a good experience” as it offers one the chance to see what one is and is not interested in, which would help in developing a specialization.
Emily Gunning – Internship in John Fabrizi’s office
Since August of this year, Emily Gunning, 19, has been an intern for the office of the Mayor of Bridgeport, John Fabrizi. Hailing originally from Bangor, Maine, Emily is an IPED (International Political Economy and Diplomacy) major in the International College, aspiring to work in the field of international politics.
Working as an intern has given Emily the opportunity to see first-hand “behind the scenes” workings of the government, and enables her to better understand domestic issues. Although Emily’s future ambitions are based on an international level, she feels it’s important to know how our own government works, and enjoys being able to be an observer of the process.
In considering the internship, Emily felt it was important first to know where she wanted to go, and see what steps would be necessary in order to achieve those goals. She urges those who are considering applying for internships to do so, as it’s important to get one’s “foot in the door” and makes steps that will enable them to reach their goals.
Conner T. Glass – Internship in Tecton Architects, pc
What company did you intern with?
Tecton Architects, pc, was founded in 1979 by Principals Peter Hentschel, AIA, [BA, March -Yale University] and David G. Foster, AIA [BArch – Rhode Island School of Design]. Tecton Architects, pc is an established Hartford, Connecticut-based general architectural firm that provides a unique range of coordinated architectural design and interior planning services.
What type of work did you do?
I was hired mainly to work on a design standards program the company was developing for a large healthcare organization.
How has the internship helped you in reaching your goals?
Most importantly, having the opportunity to be exposed to the reality of working as a designer (both positive and negative realities) has confirmed for me that I have chosen the right career path. This is another reason trying to get an internship as soon as possible is important. Working in the field also exposed me to what skills are truly used on a day- to-day basis by professionals. It showed me what areas I needed greater development in, and has made my classroom experience more rewarding.
Do you have any advice for people interesting in looking for an internship?
Get involved at some level with any professional organizations that exist for people working in your field of study. Making contacts as soon as possible is very important as it often really is who you know. Secondly, be proactive! Don’t wait for people to ask you if you want an internship, TELL THEM OVER AND OVER!