New Systems, New Summer: An Undergrad’s Debut in the Engineering World

Meet Charli.

Yes, she’s a rising junior studying systems engineering, but what’s really impressive is that she’s the recipient of the CCIA (Career Center Internship Award), which is not an easy gig to get. The CCIA program is designed for sophomores and juniors in any major seeking a summer internship. You receive coaching, professional development workshops, financial assistance, and skills to create a meaningful summer internship experience. I interviewed Charli to get a deeper understanding of the benefits of the program and her reflections on it.

Charli admitted she didn’t know about many of the software tools available to students, like LinkedIn Learning, Big Interview and Handshake. She now finds those tools incredibly valuable and uses them for both personal and professional growth. Before working at the Career Center, I didn’t know much about those tools either. But like many of the resources the Career Center offers, from improving your resume and cover letter to perfecting your elevator pitch, they make a big difference.

What I loved most was when Charli reflected on what being “professional” meant to her. She said she learned it doesn’t mean being super formal, it means knowing how to communicate clearly, respectfully and with purpose. Wow. What a powerful statement. Though I’m a senior about to graduate, I’m learning lessons here too.

Networking.
If you sighed when you read that word, I’m here with you. It can be daunting, scary and very intimidating, but it’s a skill that’s immensely useful. Charli, like me (and millions of others who feel anxious when they hear that word), actually found comfort in it because of this program.

Charli said:

“When reaching out to more experienced professionals, I often worried they wouldn’t take me seriously due to my limited knowledge. However, that fear gradually faded as I started connecting with others. Almost everyone I reached out to, whether hiring managers, alumni in the industry or even friends and family, responded with genuine advice, encouragement or helpful resources.”

Tearing up over here. Like I said, networking can be scary, but it’s so, so helpful. I’m incredibly proud of my peer Charli for growing in her confidence with networking, as well as personally and professionally.

Charli also said that this program immensely helped her with cover letter writing, something that can be hard to nail. She said she now feels more confident presenting herself professionally while still staying authentic. She emphasized many times how this program helped her gain confidence in many aspects of her professional life.

Words of Wisdom – CCIA Applications and Beyond.
The CCIA award applications will open this summer, with selections made in August. I wanted to know what advice Charli would have for students thinking about applying, and what to keep in mind if accepted into the program.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to companies, whether they have an internship position posted or not. The worst they can say is no, and it gives you practice in reaching out and networking independently. Also, set your expectations early. Know what kind of job you want and where you want it. When you have a clear goal in mind, you’re more likely to approach it with confidence and a stronger passion for obtaining the position.”

Such great wisdom, Charli.
If you’d like to follow Charli’s journey or ask her questions, you can connect with her on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charli-mcinturff/