I liked the general work environment. My office had approximately 50 people in it, all of whom were accepting and willing to offer advice and answer my questions. Also, based on the building layout, my tasks were a great mix of computer design and hands-on experience with the engines they produce. It was obvious they were interested in my success and furthering my knowledge, all the while being given lots of responsibility and freedom complete my work.
What I wish was different
i wish there had been less downtime between projects, as I found myself sitting at my desk without anything to do frequently. I do understand though that this is commonplace for a first-time intern at a company where the primary interest is to begin the grooming process for a potential second internship and/or full-time position post college.
Advice
USE YOUR CONNECTIONS!!! I found this job via a long-time family friend who had been appointed as the company's CFO just several months prior. Not only can they provide you with a perhaps unlisted position, they may be able to create a position for you, depending on their rank within the company. I was provided with my opportunity before it was even listed on their careers page, and all I had to do was complete the application as a formality.
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Advanced Product Development Intern
May - August 2018 • Itasca, IL
What I liked
I liked working at a smaller company with a few interns because I gained experience in a variety of different things— from hands-on applications to CAD work & assisting in every step of product development. PSI was a really great environment to work in and I was given a lot of challenges and independence to grow and learn.
What I wish was different
Advice
Because this job wasn’t in the industry I was originally looking for, I was skeptical that it would still be a valuable experience. However, I learned a lot about general engineering skills and professionalism that will apply to any position I get in the future. Working in a new environment with unfamiliar systems was a challenge for sure, but my favorite projects ended up being the most difficult ones. So I guess my advice would be to say yes to every opportunity and challenge and gain as much as you can from it.
