Internship Diaries: Summer Experiences & Lifelong Lessons
While experiential learning is embedded in nearly every course, completing a professional internship is a key requirement for students in Clark University School of Business programs. This past summer, many students gained hands-on experience assisting organizations near and far through their internships. With guidance from the Stevenish Career Management Center staff, students pursued opportunities that aligned with their career goals and schedules, making the most of the center’s online tools and its network of alumni and partners.
Read on for some personal student reflections on their summer 2025 internships:
Name: Rachit Munjal
Major: MBA – Business Analytics
Company/Position: Red Rabbit Games; Business Intern
What’s a highlight or a memorable moment from your internship?
The highlight was working closely with the CEO and COO to set up Agile practices for the game development team. Seeing the team adopt these changes and becoming more efficient was very rewarding because it showed me how even small process improvements can have a big impact. Another memorable moment was helping with the Kickstarter campaign planning, where I worked on brainstorming reward tiers and marketing ideas. This gave me a real sense of how product and marketing must work hand-in-hand to reach customers, and it was exciting to see how creative ideas could directly shape how a product is received by the community.
What advice would you give to students currently searching for internships?
Start early, use your network, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people. Be open to opportunities that may not look traditional at first, because they can give you valuable hands-on experience and often teach you more than you expect. I’d also say to stay positive during the search, because the right opportunity often comes when you least expect it. For me, being open-minded helped me land an internship in the gaming industry, which I hadn’t originally considered, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences I’ve had.
“The biggest takeaway I’ll carry forward is that even in small teams, structured processes and collaboration can drive big results, and that mindset will guide me in every future opportunity.”
Name: Sooki Davies
Major: BS in Business Management, 2025; MBA, 2026
Company/Position: Martin’s Point Health Care; Accounting Intern
Highlight or memorable moment?
My favorite moment was doing an escape room day two with the other interns. We strengthened our teamwork and communication, and we were able to bond during this fun activity! I also really enjoyed the volunteering time the Accounting and Finance team had with Portland Trails — hanging out in an informal manner after working together for several months was really great, and I was able to learn a lot about my team members!
Advice to students searching for internships?
Reach out to your network and see what connections you have! I also recommend starting to apply early, around the fall semester. Don’t be scared to get rejected.
“This internship helped me realize that I do want to become a CPA, so I have been in the starting stages of preparing to sit for an exam and explore my options. It’s been amazing to have my supervisor and team to support and guide me, as they offer lots of invaluable advice!”
Name: Lucas Cuda
Major: BS in Finance
Company/Position: DWS Asset Management; Internal Audit Intern
Highlight or memorable moment?
A highlight of my internship at DWS in New York was the final presentation of our intern case study. My group and I worked very hard all summer on a thematic analysis of one of DWS’s funds and a stock pitch on an addition we think would fit into the fund. It resulted in us winning the competition and putting an exclamation point on an amazing internship.
Advice to students searching for internships?
My advice is to keep an open mind during the search process. Sometimes the best opportunities are ones you might not have initially considered, and getting your foot in the door of the industry is the best way to end up where you want to be and also to learn about different facets of your field. Also, don’t underestimate the value of preparing well for interviews; being able to clearly communicate your story and interests is just as important as technical skills.
“This internship opened the door to new opportunities for me within DWS. I’ll be returning next summer to the firm’s Client Coverage division, where I’ll be able to build on what I learned and continue exploring different areas of finance. That progression has shown me how internships can shape not only your skillset but also your career path.”
Name: Kyle Jackson
Major: BS in Finance, 2025; MS-Accounting, 2026
Company/Position: CohnReznick; Audit Intern
Highlight or memorable moment?
Working with the Affordable Housing audit team on projects that have a direct influence on communities was one of the highlights of my internship. It was encouraging and fulfilling to be a part of a group that strives to improve the accuracy of affordable housing while also valuing professionalism and accuracy.
Advice to students searching for internships?
Act with initiative and an open mind because you never know what will ignite your enthusiasm, so spend time researching companies and sectors that share your interests. However, don’t be afraid to look into areas you may not have looked at first. Throughout the process, networking and posing intelligent queries can have a significant impact. In my experience, I gave all my time trying to get my foot in the door for something I had an interest in.
Name: Vibha Srinivasa
Major: MS-Business Analytics
Company/Position: Hologic; Service Marketing Analytics Intern
Highlight or memorable moment?
A highlight of my internship at Hologic was attending the Scientific Product Support Cytology Lab ThinPrep demo. Seeing the ThinPrep processors in action and getting the chance to look at actual cell samples under the microscope was unforgettable. It was inspiring to see science at the cellular level and understand how this technology contributes to early detection and better patient outcomes.
Advice to students searching for internships?
Be open-minded and curious throughout your search. Even if a position doesn’t seem like a “perfect fit” at first, every internship can teach you valuable skills and open unexpected doors. Ask questions, use your network, and don’t be afraid to step into new spaces, you never know what opportunity will shape your path.
“This internship confirmed that I want to pursue a career where my work is tied to a larger purpose. Growth happens when you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone and connect your contributions to something bigger than yourself.”
Name: Sharmila Pentapalli
Major: MS-Business Analytics
Company/Position: MaryRuth’s; People Experience Intern
Highlight or memorable moment?
Apart from savoring the satisfaction of completed reports, the product development project I was part of with other interns was a highlight of my internship! I learned a lot from my peers and their way of thinking. Any experience that gives a better perspective and the ability to think innovatively is worth it.
Advice to students searching for internships?
Almost everyone you work with will want to know your “why.” I would advise students to do their research about the places they are applying to, not just what you learn by looking at their website, but also things that the company is in the news for, initiatives, employee culture, the impact their products or services have made, and how you want to contribute to that, as well as how your own goals align with it.
“One takeaway I would carry forward is the importance of persevering through things you don’t know by focused self-learning and asking for help when needed. It helps one remember things longer, learn better, and strengthen workplace relationships, especially if you are looking for mentors.“
