Major: Computer Science
Please describe the experiences that have made you a Career Ready Great Dane:
I interned this summer with Empire State Development (ESD), New York State’s economic development agency. Within ESD, I worked under the NYSTAR division (Division of Science, Technology & Innovation), which manages programs that support universities, research centers, startups, and companies to drive innovation, technology commercialization, and economic growth across New York State. I found this internship through Indeed, applied online, and was selected after an interview. During my internship, I mapped and categorized 70+ innovation centers by industry, technology, and growth phase, assisted in the redesign of the NYSTAR website using interactive maps and Airtable-powered data, and created visuals and reports showcasing statewide innovation trends.
Advice for other Great Danes: Attending Career Fairs each semester helped me understand the competitive job market and the importance of networking. Additionally, tools like Handshake and Big Interview were instrumental in helping me secure the internship by preparing confidently for my interview.
College goes by faster than you think, so make the most of every opportunity. Get involved, try new things, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. On-campus jobs, like mine in Residential Life, helped me gain confidence, improve my communication, and understand what it’s like to work in a professional setting. Talk to people, ask questions, and build connections — you never know which conversation could lead to your next big opportunity.
