Internship experiences by the students of ECST
V. Morales Internship experience at RTX Corporation.
- INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
- Preparation
- Heard about the internship through a university Discord channel
- Prepared by fixing up resume with help from a mentor
- Attended a career fair workshop to learn tips and recommendations
- Reviewed technical skills by watching YouTube videos on the way to the career fair
- Career Fair Strategy
- Started with a less desirable booth to get rid of nervousness
- Went to as many booths as possible to gain experience and improve chances
- Ended up getting a position on the spot from a hiring manager
- Project Description
- Built a radar with a team, consisting of hardware and software components
- Worked with RF components, antennas, and PCBs
- Used Python and MATLAB for programming and data analysis
- Presented live readings of the radar using MATLAB and recorded data using Python
- Benefits
- Received a return offer from Raytheon for full-time work after graduation
- Attended more career fairs and received additional offers from Northrop Grumman and Cummings Company
- Gained valuable experience and skills in the field, helping to stand out in the job market
- Preparation
- NETWORKING
- Met senior engineer in the art department, a super awesome dude
- Learned a lot from him and other co-workers
- Met alumni from Casa La who was working in the same department
- Small world, opened up many doors
- Knowledge Expansion
- Learned about radars, oscilloscopes, RF components, and software
- Got to learn Python, can now put it on resume
- Helps fellow classmates with interviews and resume building
- Encouragement
- Encourages others to apply for internships regardless of GPA or qualifications
- Shares personal experience of getting offer despite low GPA
- Emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of resources at school to prepare for interviews and career fairs
- Met senior engineer in the art department, a super awesome dude
- EXPERIENCE AT LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER
- Internship Experience
- Tasked with performing voltage calculations and power flow calculations to ensure up-to-date maps
- Gained technical skills, including proficiency in power flow calculation tools and GIS software
- Networked with many engineers and gained knowledge of power distribution and engineering principles
- Challenges Faced
- Learning the rigorous software used by engineers
- Communication challenges in a fast-paced environment with multiple ongoing projects
- Balancing learning new skills and keeping up with the department's workload
- Internship Experience
- BENEFITS OF THE INTERNSHIP
- Technical Skills
- Gained an understanding of voltage distribution and power flow calculations
- Familiarity with industry-standard software and tools
- Practical application of engineering principles in a real-world setting
- Networking and Professional Development
- Built relationships with experienced engineers and professionals in the field
- Gained insight into the inner workings of a large corporation and the engineering industry
- Enhanced communication and teamwork skills through collaboration with colleagues
- Technical Skills
- FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
- Career Goals
- Aspires to continue working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
- Seeks to expand knowledge and skills in power engineering and distribution
- Hopes to contribute to the department's mission of providing reliable and efficient power to the city
- Personal Growth
- Developed a stronger work ethic and dedication to learning
- Improved communication and interpersonal skills
- Gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of power distribution and engineering in society
- Career Goals
- LANDING AN INTERNSHIP AT Northrop Grumman
- Preparation
- Attended the SWE conference and career fair to network with companies
- Improved resume and interview skills to increase chances of getting hired
- Prepared for technical interviews by brushing up on electrical engineering concepts and practicing with the STAR method
- Technical Work at Northrop Grumman
- Worked in the ground systems development department at Northrop Grumman Space Park
- Verified functionality of custom digital PCBs through hardware and software testing
- Used proprietary software to control custom PCBs and performed troubleshooting of I2C lines
- Wrote Pyon scripts to automate debugging and testing and created detailed procedures for future reference
- Relation to Curriculum
- Technical aspects of the internship align with computer engineering specialization
- FBGA work relates to E 4480 (Advanced Digital Design)
- IT debugging and Python coding related to embedded systems classes (E 4450, Embedded Architectures)
- Proprietary software used relates to E 4400 (Data Communications and Networking)
- Preparation
- BENEFITS OF INTERNSHIP
- Professional Work Environment
- Experienced a laid-back and helpful work environment
- Managers and leads were approachable and helped set goals
- Had own projects to work on, allowing for self-sufficiency
- Networking and Learning
- Networked with experienced engineers
- Saw concepts from class and Baja being applied in a professional setting
- Improved communication skills by asking for help when needed
- Professional Work Environment
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
- Preparation for the Internship
- Reviewed notes from Circuit Analysis to memorize basic equations for electrical engineering.
- Prepared for the interview by practicing answers to common questions.
- Internship Tasks and Responsibilities
- Worked on building circuits and testing equipment using AC power source and converting AC to DC.
- Created electric control enclosures, cable drawings, and PCB boards using SolidWorks, NX, LTM, Microsoft VCO, and AutoCAD.
- Troubleshot equipment and used tools such as a multimeter, oscilloscope, and probes to measure voltage, resistance, and current flow.
- Skills and Knowledge Gained
- Learned to use software programs such as SolidWorks, NX, LTM, Microsoft VCO, and AutoCAD.
- Gained experience in troubleshooting and testing equipment.
- Developed skills in leading technicians to rework cables and equipment at test bed venues.
- Relation to E Curriculum and Specialty
- Internship was related to E curriculum in circuit analysis and power engineering.
- Gained knowledge in power engineering by working with AC power sources and converting AC to DC.
- REACHING OUT TO INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
- Utilizing Handshake Application
- Handshake application was a useful resource for finding internship opportunities
- Handshake application made it easy and convenient to apply to internships
- Recommend using other resources such as LinkedIn and checking email regularly for internship opportunities
- Preparing for Internship
- Reviewed fundamental engineering classes such as circuit analysis, electronics, digital engineering, and analog communication systems
- Conducted light research on the responsibilities of a compliance engineer
- Prepared for internship by discussing with professors and doing research on the company
- Utilizing Handshake Application
- INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
- Responsibilities as an Intern
- Conducted electrical immunity tests on Exron products
- Applied knowledge from analog communication course in radiated immunity test
- Worked with product design engineers when products were not functioning properly
- Benefits of Internship
- Gained real-world industry experience working with different engineers
- Developed hands-on experience in a lab environment with electrical measuring devices and test equipment
- Improved communication skills and time management skills
- Responsibilities as an Intern
- FINDING AN INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
- Utilizing Resources
- Cal State LA's email updates on internship opportunities, research opportunities, and full-time opportunities
- Utilizing the Cal State LA's Handshake profile to apply for job postings
- Attending conferences to find job opportunities
- Preparing for the Interview Process
- Researching the company and the interviewer on LinkedIn
- Understanding the company's current projects and goals
- Preparing answers to behavioral questions and technical questions related to your specialization
- Understanding the Company's Culture and Values
- Asking questions to the interviewer to learn more about the company's culture and values
- Understanding the company's mission and vision
- Researching the company's history and past projects
- Demystifying the Company's Image
- Understanding the company's true values and goals
- Researching the company's reputation and feedback from past employees
- Comparing the company's image with the reality of working there
- Relevancy to Component Engineering
- Understanding the importance of component engineering in the company's overall design and planning process
- Learning about the capabilities of different components and their relevance to the company's projects
- Applying knowledge gained from component engineering courses to real-world scenarios
- Learning New Skills and Software
- Learning industry-level software and tools
- Understanding why certain methodologies and simulations are performed in a specific way
- Applying knowledge gained from electrical engineering courses to real-world scenarios
- Utilizing Resources
- INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
- Internship
- Provides hands-on experience in a professional setting
- Allows for networking opportunities with professionals in the field
- Offers the chance to learn and adapt to new software and technologies
- Helps to develop communication and teamwork skills
- Can lead to job offers and career advancement opportunities
- Networking
- Building relationships with colleagues and managers
- Learning about company culture and values
- Gaining insight into industry trends and best practices
- Finding mentors and role models
- Collaborating with others on projects
- Professional Development
- Improving communication and teamwork skills
- Learning to work effectively in a diverse and inclusive environment
- Developing leadership and mentoring skills
- Understanding the importance of time management and prioritization
- Gaining experience in project management and coordination
- Technical Skills
- Familiarity with industry-standard software and tools
- Understanding of engineering principles and concepts
- Ability to analyze and interpret data
- Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations
- Familiarity with quality control and assurance processes
- Career Advancement
- Opportunities for job offers and promotions
- Professional growth and development
- Increased earning potential
- Access to leadership roles and responsibilities
- Recognition and respect within the industry
- Internship
LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER STUDENT ENGINEER INTERNSHIP
- Overview of the Internship
- Located at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's Mcrep's Innovation Campus
- Worked in the Efficiency Solutions of the Engineering Department, Power District
- Responsibilities included testing lighting rentals, analyzing results, and conducting site visits
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Worked with a team of engineers, including certified engineers and supervisors
- Collaborated with team members and supervisors to complete projects and tasks
- Importance of teamwork in engineering projects
- Preparation for the Application
- Ensured eligibility by meeting requirements such as full-time enrollment and declared engineering major
- Practiced behavioral questions for the interview
- Familiarized with emphasis and position-specific questions, such as electrical engineering concepts
- Interview and Selection Process
- Interview consisted of behavioral questions and emphasis-specific questions
- Importance of practicing behavioral questions to demonstrate teamwork skills
- Background check conducted upon hiring
- Recommendations for Future Applicants
- Encourage all engineering majors to apply
- Visit Cal State Lee's career center for assistance with interviews, resumes, and cover letters
- Importance of preparation and practice for the interview process
- MY EXPERIENCE AS AN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING STUDENT
- Internship Experience
- Worked at Aerospace and Defense Company
- Skills Acquired
- Learned VHDL programming language
- Familiarity with satellite systems and signal processing
- Networking
- Attended conferences to expand professional network
- Involved in school clubs to gain opportunities and build connections
- Job Search
- Applied to numerous job openings to increase chances of getting hired
- Asked for feedback on resume and interview performance to improve
- Professional Development
- Participated in workshops and professional development opportunities
- Shared knowledge and experience with fellow club members
- Advice for Fellow Students
- Encouraged students to attend conferences and get involved in clubs
- Emphasized the importance of networking and continuous learning
- Internship Experience
- PREPARATION FOR TECHNICAL INTERVIEWS
- Mock Interviews
- Practice answering behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method
- Review resume and key topics from major courses
- Prepare for technical questions, especially for companies like Milwaukee Tools and Eden
- Resume and Key Topics Review
- Review resume and key topics from major courses
- Summarize experiences and projects to highlight skills and achievements
- Focus on relevant courses, such as digital logic and vhdl, for power systems
- STAR Method
- Explain the situation, task, action, and result of a given experience
- Use the STAR method to answer behavioral and situational questions
- Practice answering questions using the STAR method to improve responses
- Networking
- Attend conferences and networking events to meet professionals in the field
- Connect with managers and engineers from different departments and industries
- Join clubs and organizations to gain experience and build relationships
- Leadership Roles and Teamwork
- Highlight leadership roles and teamwork experiences on resume and in interviews
- Showcase ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a team environment
- Seek out opportunities to lead projects and clubs to gain experience
- Technical Skills
- Learn new technical skills, such as vhdl, to expand knowledge and capabilities
- Review coursework and projects to refresh technical skills
- Show enthusiasm for learning and developing technical skills
- Internship Experience
- Share experiences and lessons learned from internships
- Highlight skills and knowledge gained from internships
- Show appreciation for opportunities to learn and grow through internships
- Career Development
- Seek out opportunities to learn and grow, such as attending conferences and workshops
- Build relationships with professionals in the field to gain insight and advice
- Show dedication to career development and advancement
- Mock Interviews
- INTERVIEW PREPARATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT
- Interview Preparation
- Prepare for interviews by practicing behavioral and situational questions
- Review resume and key topics from major courses
- Practice using the STAR method to answer questions
- Career Development
- Seek out opportunities to learn and grow, such as attending conferences and workshops
- Build relationships with professionals in the field to gain insight and advice
- Show dedication to career development and advancement
- Interview Preparation
- TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN COLLEGE AND BEYOND
- Getting Involved in School Clubs and Projects
- Join at least three different clubs or projects in college, such as a robotics club, a programming club, or a hackathon team
- Participate in resourceful clubs like ACM, ship, or Eminem program mentorship
- Join social clubs to expand your network and improve communication skills
- Take leadership roles within clubs or projects to develop leadership skills and improve your resume
- Document your experiences and create a portfolio to showcase your work
- Attend conferences to gain opportunities and get feedback from professionals in the industry
- Give back to the school and clubs that helped you by becoming a mentor or contributing to their programs
- Importance of Conferences and Networking
- Attend conferences to meet people in the industry and learn about new trends and technologies
- Conferences are where opportunities happen, and they can lead to internships, full-time jobs, or professional development
- Networking is important, and conferences provide a chance to connect with professionals and build relationships
- Bring your resume and be prepared to talk about your projects and experiences
- Make sure to document your experiences and the feedback you receive at conferences
- Overcoming Fears and Challenges
- Don't be discouraged if you have a low GPA or no experience
- Leadership roles and project experience can help overcome a low GPA
- Being involved in school clubs and projects can help build confidence and improve communication skills
- Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek help from upperclassmen or professionals
- Learn from your mistakes and failures, and use them as opportunities for growth
- Getting Involved in School Clubs and Projects
- ENCOURAGEMENT AND ADVICE FOR SUCCESS
- Importance of Hard Work and Perseverance
- Success doesn't come easily, and it takes hard work and perseverance to achieve your goals
- Keep pushing forward, even when things get tough
- Learn from your mistakes and failures, and use them as opportunities for growth
- Stay involved in school and clubs, and continue to build your skills and experience
- Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don't be afraid to take risks
- Value of Mentorship and Giving Back
- Mentorship is important for personal and professional growth
- Look for mentors who can guide and support you
- Give back to the school and clubs that helped you by becoming a mentor or contributing to their programs
- Sharing your experiences and advice with others can help them and also help you reflect on your own growth
- Pay it forward and help others succeed, just as you have been helped
- Importance of Hard Work and Perseverance
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE AT RIVIAN AUTOMOTIVE
- Self-Driving and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
- Worked on vehicle integration at the factory in Normal, Illinois
- Ensured camera systems, radar systems, computer systems, and sensor systems were functioning properly and communicating with each other
- Wrote code to increase functionality and ensure systems were operating in order
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including software and hardware engineers
- Utilized skills learned in school, such as programming languages C and Python
- Gained experience in a professional engineering setting and learned how engineers function in the industry
- Developed passion and interest in self-driving technology and electric vehicles
- Career Development
- Learned about the importance of passion and interest in a career
- Realized the value of adaptability and learning in a professional setting
- Gained insight into the different aspects of self-driving technology and electric vehicles
- Understood the importance of building connections and networking in the industry
- Developed a better understanding of his career path and future goals
- Lessons Learned
- The importance of being able to speak to everything on your resume
- The value of researching the company and being interested in their values and goals
- The impact of having a positive attitude and being passionate about the industry
- The benefit of learning from experienced professionals and gaining practical experience
- The importance of building connections and networking in the industry
- INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
- Networking
- Attended networking events to find an internship opportunity
- Reached out to colleagues on LinkedIn for potential internship leads
- Cleaned up resume and submitted it for job opportunities
- Preparation
- Prepared for interviews by researching the company and practicing responses to common questions
- Reviewed course material from E4200 and E5200 to refresh knowledge
- Looked over job requisitions to understand the skills and qualifications required
- Internship Related to E Curriculum
- Internship was 100% in line with Master's program concentration at Cal State LA
- Worked with RF components, testing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis
- Designed systems that were classified, using components sourced from the job requisition
- Benefits of Internship
- Gained practical experience in the field, solidifying theoretical knowledge
- Developed expertise in RF components, game budget, and overall confidence
- Built connections between classroom learning and real-world applications
- Networking
- RECOMMENDATIONS
- Gratitude
- Expressed gratitude to Dr. Mundine and Dr. Dinesh for their guidance and support
- Recognized the value of their time and effort in helping with academic and professional development
- Recommendations for Cal State LA Students
- Encouraged Cal State LA students to pursue internships at Northrop Grumman
- Provided contact information for two Northrop Grumman employees who can assist with internship opportunities
- Emphasized the importance of building connections and seeking out opportunities for growth
- Gratitude