Penn State students completed a variety of internship experiences in summer 2024. A few of them include (clockwise from top left): Conducting microbiome research at QIAGEN headquarters in Hilden, Germany; working as a manufacturing intern on the H-47 Chinook program at Boeing; working with Sunoco LP in the race fuels department; updating firmware and reworking software at Legrand; writing for the Centre County Gazette; broadcasting at CNN, a business unit of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.; and learning restaurant performance insights at Chick-Fil-A. The photo gallery below provides more details on these and many other recent internship experiences of Penn State students.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Baking in the test kitchens at The Hershey Company. Studying the effects of space weather on satellite communication with NASA. Working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., as a congressional intern. Planning events at The Arboretum at Penn State.
These activities are just a few of the many experiential learning and professional development opportunities that Penn State students gained through internships this summer. The following photo gallery showcases these and other first-hand accounts of student internships across a range of industries and domains. The pictures highlight a few of the numerous internship opportunities that Penn State students from various colleges and campuses can pursue.
This photo gallery showcases the breadth of internship opportunities available to Penn State students and highlights a few of the many internship experiences that Penn State students recently completed.
Kacie Czyszczon, a senior majoring in food science in the College of Agricultural Sciences, spent the summer with The Hershey Company as a Research and Development intern on the sensory and product insights team in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Czyszczon learned about many sensory techniques, such as descriptive analysis, by working with the Hershey Professional Taste Panel. She also worked with the materials characterization team to explore solutions to complex food analysis problems linked to physical transformation. Throughout the summer, she had the opportunity to see Hershey’s Kisses be made on the production line, bake in the Hershey test kitchens, and make Reese’s peanut butter cups in the pilot plant. “Working with iconic confectionery projects that I grew up enjoying was an incredible experience. It was exciting to apply the knowledge and skills that I've developed at Penn State to projects that have a real impact on the business.”
Jade Bramwell, a senior studying broadcast journalism in the Bellisario College of Communications, completed a summer internship with CNN (a business unit of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.) and a nine-week summer media fellowship in New York City. At CNN, she supported “CNN NewsNight,” hosted by Abby Phillip. "This has been a rough last few months in the news cycle and learning the ins and outs of the industry has been life changing," Bramwell said. "Being the only Black/Black woman CNN news show intern this summer is a privilege I do not take lightly. I hope the trend continues to move forward for more diverse faces in the newsroom. Thank you, T. Howard Foundation for continuing to shift the movement in media helping students like me receive internships.”
Nelcys Guzman, a senior pursuing a degree in business administration at Penn State Scranton, participated in a management trainee internship with Enterprise Mobility this summer where she learned the essential operations of one of the world’s leading car rental brands. “From mastering customer service excellence to understanding fleet management and logistics, each day had truly been a rewarding journey of growth," Guzman said. "My supportive team has guided me through various facets of the business, including customer service and effective sales strategies that drive profits. This hands-on experience has not only honed my skills but also deepened my admiration for Enterprise Mobility’s commitment to recognition, excellence and teamwork.”
Luke Kerwin, who will earn a bachelor’s degree in data science from the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) in December 2024, worked at the Chick-fil-A Corporate Support Center in Atlanta as a restaurant performance insights intern this summer. At his internship's completion, Kerwin was hired to continue in a part-time capacity. “I’m thrilled (to be able) to build upon the foundation I established this summer," Kerwin said. "This opportunity allows me to continue learning from some of the brightest and most caring minds in the industry while I complete my remaining coursework at Penn State. I’m excited to continue learning, growing and building relationships with such an incredible team!”
Oluwatomisin Olaore, a junior studying computational data science in the College of Engineering, spent the summer as a front-line IT procurement intern with PPG at the company’s headquarters in Pittsburgh. Her team provided IT solutions that drove savings and productivity for the organization. Olaore worked on three different projects, helping her gain exposure to agile methodology, functional specifications and project management. “I'm very grateful for all the connections and different individuals that I met during my time," Olaore said. "I'm leaving this internship with several new technical, professional and analytical skills. This has been an amazing experience, and I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to work at such a wonderful company.”
Ann Ehrlich, a second-year Schreyer Honors Scholar studying geography in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences with minors in climatology and geographical information sciences, spent 10 weeks with the NASA DEVELOP Program studying the effects of space weather on satellite communication for precision agriculture. “My time with Schreyer gave me the confidence to apply technical skills to real-world problems and engage professionally with international partners and NASA leadership," Ehrlich said.
Chase Brown, who will earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology from Penn State Harrisburg in December 2024, interned at the Middletown, Pennsylvania, office of Legrand, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. In his internship Brown has tested products, updated firmware and performed physical and software rework — all helping him gain valuable knowledge in the field. “Not only do I have more insight about career specific processes, but also about the work environment itself. Attending company events and meetings allowed me to practice my professionalism outside of the college settings," Brown said. "Working at the Middletown office meant more flexibility with managing class time and work hours, with it being so close to the campus. I am so thankful to have had such a productive and enriching experience so far, and I am eager to continue on for the near future!”
Nazifa Prapti, a fifth-year student pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering and who holds a minor in engineering leadership development, completed her second internship with Boeing this summer in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania. She worked as a manufacturing engineering intern on the H-47 Chinook program, which she said has been both challenging and rewarding. “I’ve gained valuable insights into the aerospace and defense industry and developed skills that will benefit my career," Prapti said. "I started my engineering journey because I wanted to inspire more women. No matter what, I will always find ways to inspire others through my work. As I approach the end of my college journey, I’m excited to apply the skills and insights I’ve gained from my internships. I’m deeply grateful for all the support and guidance I’ve received, especially from the Penn State Multicultural Engineering Program, and I look forward to continuing to grow and apply what I’ve learned in the next chapter of my career.”
Mohammad Alkout, a junior double majoring in economics and civil engineering, served as an intern at the Permanent Mission of the State of Kuwait to the United Nations at the U.N. headquarters in New York. As a permanent delegate chosen to represent his nation, he attended numerous important meetings, including sessions at the U.N. General Assembly. He’s even been invited back to represent next summer. “It was an enriching experience and I am keen on continuing in the field of politics and am aiming for a career in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," Alkout said.
Jaida Copeland, a junior studying corporate innovation and entrepreneurship in the Smeal College of Business, was a markets institute business case undergraduate intern with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) this summer. Copeland conducted research for two separate WWF projects. She uncovered successful engagement tactics from a range of organizations, which helped her to analyze consumer interactions and generate actionable insights to drive engagement across WWF’s social media platforms. She also gained insight into food industry analysis by exploring business case studies formed around pre-competitive knowledge-sharing and strategic enhancements. Copeland’s internship was primarily remote, but she traveled to Washington, D.C., for a week, where she was exposed to climate leaders and masters in their fields. The internship provided Copeland with “opportunities for professional development, real-world experience and resources that I will use for the rest of my professional journey," she said. “I took a step out of my comfort zone by joining an intern group project, through which we were able to establish new ideas and updates for the materials and supply chain module in WWF’s Environment and Disaster Management Green Recovery and Reconstruction Toolkit. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be alongside some of the most brilliant minds and impressive people I have ever worked with. I left the internship with a deepened perspective of sustainability, international relationships and personal interactions.”
Hunter Steach, a junior studying political science in the College of the Liberal Arts, was a congressional intern in Washington, D.C., this summer. He attended hearings and meetings, worked with the office’s legislative team to conduct research for various bills, co-sponsorships and committee meetings, and offered tours of the U.S. Capitol Complex. “By being an active student and utilizing our university’s abundant professional development resources including our world-leading alumni network," said Steach, "I wouldn’t have had the chance to make the dream of interning on Capitol Hill a reality.”
Evgenia Kopanos, a senior studying print and digital journalism in the Bellisario College of Communications, completed a news/community internship at The Centre County Gazette in State College. “This summer has taught me so much about writing for a publication and the importance of having a team to work for," Kopanos said. "The support I have received from my team has been very impactful to me and to my writing. I have written stories about people and places all over Centre County and it has been so rewarding learning about them and showing them what I have written about them.”
Hailey Stutzman, a senior studying film production in the Bellisario College of Communications, was a photography intern with the National Football League in Los Angeles this summer. She worked on various assignments for the NFL including media days, training camps and preseason games. “Penn State has provided me with a supportive community of students and professors who have shaped my career in sports photography," Stutzman said. "I took every opportunity I could to get involved and network when I came to campus as a freshman.” See more of Stutzman’s internship experience from her point of view on Penn State’s Instagram.
Emi Erekosima, a senior studying computational data science in the College of Engineering, served as a technology architecture analyst intern with Accenture this summer in New York City. “I can confidently say that this summer has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional journey," Erekosima said. "I’ve not only grown, but I’ve also made meaningful, lasting connections. This experience has truly shaped my understanding of the consulting world, from client engagement to learning how to be adaptable and think on my feet in dynamic environments. I’m excited to bring the skills and insights I’ve gained to the classroom, and I’m eager to continue expanding my network, developing professionally and embracing new challenges.”
Doctoral students Ashley Ohstrom (dual title in food science and microbiome sciences) and Jamie Spychalla (plant pathology and environmental microbiology) completed a summer internship with QIAGEN, a global provider of molecular testing solutions headquartered in Hilden, Germany. The two were the first cohort in a new program co-sponsored by QIAGEN and the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State. Ohstrom said: “I had the incredible opportunity to dive into hands-on microbiome research while feeling fully integrated into the team. I worked on optimizing a microbiome assay kit by automating the DNA extraction process to improve efficiency over manual methods, and I also learned how to analyze the data and write protocols. The experience showed me what it’s like to be part of a team in the biotech industry. The skills I’ve gained will be invaluable as I continue my doctoral research and launch into my future career.” Spychalla said: “I worked on a project that tested how well different concentrations of enzymes digested eukaryotic host DNA. The project's goal was to optimize a protocol to extract bacterial DNA from tissues with low bacterial biomass. By doing this internship I learned that a career in biotech research is definitely a viable option for me.”
Alex McElhinny, a senior majoring in energy, business and finance in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, spent the summer as an intern with Sunoco LP in the race fuels department at the Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania terminal. The position was part of Energy Transfer’s internship program. According to McElhinny, the site was a great stepping stone to understanding the midstream sector, which covers natural gas processing, storage and transportation. McElhinny also got an in-depth look at how Sunoco produces and sells its high-quality race fuel to end consumers. “Energy Transfer’s internship program opens the doors to meeting many like-minded people and provides potential experiences that are once in a lifetime," McElhinny said. "I am proud to share that I have received an offer to consider continuing my journey with Sunoco after I graduate from Penn State.”
Deanna Vincenzi, a senior studying recreation, parks and tourism management in the College of Health and Human Development, spent the summer as an events intern with The Arboretum at Penn State on the University Park campus. She helped coordinate logistics and craft timelines for several events, including the Penn’s Woods Music Festival, weddings and volunteer efforts, and led the planning and execution of a garden-wide appreciation event. She is continuing her internship this fall and will co-lead the Arboretum’s annual Pumpkin Festival, the venue’s largest event that draws up to 20,000 attendees. “I’ve had the incredible opportunity to dive into the dynamic world of events, rentals and operations through programs large and small at The Arboretum at Penn State," Vincenzi said. "Through this internship, I gained experience working with clients, vendors and guests for private and public programs. I’m grateful for the support of my colleagues and mentors whose guidance, trust and encouragement have made this such an invaluable experience. From professional development trips, networking opportunities and all the hands-on work at events in the gardens, I could not have asked for a better internship.”
Kacey Harper, a junior studying corporate communication at Penn State Schuylkill, worked as a marketing intern for the Schuylkill United Way in Pottsville, Pennsylvania this summer. Her primary project was refreshing the organization’s Community Resources Guide, which involved verifying local companies’ services and contact information, redesigning the guide for better usability, and assisting with promotional materials for events. “Seeing first-hand how Schuylkill United Way benefits the community has been inspiring, especially since I have lived in Schuylkill County my whole life," Harper said. "It was rewarding to understand the impact of their work behind the scenes. This experience has made me eager to pursue a career where I can use my skills to make a positive contribution to a community, similar to the meaningful work done by Schuylkill United Way.” Read more about Harper’s experience on the Penn State Schuylkill website.
Rafael Davis Matar Grandi, a senior studying finance in the Smeal College of Business, completed a summer internship with PepsiCo in the Frito-Lay plant in Orlando, Florida. He immersed himself in PepsiCo’s business and gained valuable insights into its operations and strategies. He collaborated with cross-functional teams, tackled real-world challenges and contributed to projects that drove efficiency and added value back to the plant. “From day one, the company culture and the support from the entire Orlando team have been nothing short of outstanding," he said. "This internship experience enhanced my professional skills and helped me build genuine, lasting relationships. The experiences and insights I’ve gained have fueled my excitement for what lies ahead, and I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned in my senior year at Penn State!”
“A career choice is one of life’s most important decisions,” said Bob Orndorff, senior director of Career Services. “There is no deeper way to explore and ensure one’s career choice than participating in an internship.”
Completing an internship can do more than help a student learn more about their chosen career path — it can also lead to full-time employment. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), companies reported extending full-time job offers for after graduation to two-thirds of their interns in 2022-23. In that same year, more than half (53%) of eligible interns accepted offers for continued full-time employment.
“The majority of college students who choose a particular internship are essentially choosing their first full-time job,” Orndorff said.
Orndorff offered some tips, advice and words of wisdom for Penn State students who are interested in or actively pursuing internship opportunities:
Start planning early
College students most often complete internships during their junior or senior year after they’ve completed a majority of their academic program’s relevant courses, according to Orndorff.
“It’s becoming more common, however, for students to pursue and ultimately complete more than one internship during their college career,” he said. “Therefore, we recommend that students meet with a career counselor as early as possible — in their first year or second year at the latest — to develop a career success and internship plan.”
Develop critical skills
Students can further develop and hone important skills during their internship, specifically in NACE’s eight Career Readiness Competencies that are valued most by employers of college students: communication, teamwork, leadership, equity and inclusion, critical thinking, professionalism, technology, and self and career development.
“An internship is a prime venue for developing these all-important competencies,” Orndorff said.
Employers benefit from internships, too
An organization can fully assess entry-level candidates through observing interns in action, and many employers have expanded their internship programs to serve as a pipeline for entry-level employment, Orndorff said.
If an employer wants to see that they’re hiring someone who is professional, team-oriented and hard-working and who gets along with colleagues and customers, they need to see them in action over a period of a few months rather than a period of a few hours in an interview,” he said. “By observing interns, who may later become potential full-time employees, employers are able to see first-hand who comes in early and stays late, gets along well with everybody, produces high-quality work and manages adversity well.”
Maximize your internship experience
While interns should first and foremost focus on their position's main responsibilities, Orndorff said there are ways they can further impress their supervisor to increase the probability of receiving a full-time offer once they are settled into their role. He recommends that interns meet with employees in the company to gain exposure to other divisions, departments and roles, gaining exposure to various career options. This can also help interns build and strengthen their professional network. Orndorff also suggests that students can show initiative by volunteering to help complete projects or tasks that have been “put on the back burner.”
“This is the kind of initiative that employers value most in college interns,” he said.
Network, network, network
“What makes Penn State unique is its vast and diverse alumni network,” Orndorff said. “Networking continues to be the most effective means to acquiring an internship, and there is no stronger network than alumni. With one of the largest alumni networks in the country, Penn State students can connect with alumni within both their career field and geographical location of interest.”
Take advantage of Penn State’s resources
The University offers many programs, services and resources to help students pursue and obtain internships. Orndorff strongly recommends that students:
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Schedule a coaching session with a career counselor through Nittany Lion Careers.
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Sign up for LionLink, a database of Penn State alumni who have registered to serve as career mentors or coaches for students and fellow alumni.
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Explore their college, department and/or campus career services office and resources. Many have formal internship programs and additional resources, including lists of internship sites that have hosted their students in the past.
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Attend career fairs, held University-wide each semester and organized independently by colleges, campuses, departments or student organizations throughout the year.
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Participate in career programs, workshops and events hosted by Career Services or individual colleges, campuses or departments.
