My experience working at Lowe’s this summer was tremendous. I learned so much about corporate America, how Lowe’s is structured and even a little about myself. During my time at Lowe’s I worked in the E-commerce department. Specifically, I worked on the testing team. I loved the culture that I experienced while working there. It was very professional but at the same time welcoming. Corporate America is very demanding and Lowe’s does a great job of making it feel like home. I was fortunate enough to be part of a great team that worked well together. I learned a lot about how Lowe’s goes to market using their website. I was taught all the systems they use on a daily basis. Finally, I got a new perspective about myself, and focused what I want to do when I graduate. I learned about what I would ultimately like to do in the future, and my summer at Lowe's was a primary driver of that future.
My experience with the UCC has been phenomenal! Beginning from the career advising sessions, the resume critique to the mock interviews, every program is specifically tailored to help me become a marketable, well-rounded professional. One program that was essential to developing professionalism and my brand was the Professional Clothes Closet program. The program helped me to discover and develop my brand, learn how to professionally sell my skills, and taught me how to dress for success. During the program, I was also able to receive professional clothing, which propelled my success for my upcoming interviews. I have recently accepted a job as a sales manager at Autozone Inc. and I am excited to continue developing my brand within the workplace.
Before I left for the NSBE conference in Pittsburgh where I received the job with Toyota, I had my resume critiqued by the Career Center. I believe I was able to perfect my resume through this meeting and give myself the edge I needed at the conference. The services available at the Career Center are often unavailable or extremely expensive outside the university. Yet, the services are often taken for granted. I don't think students realize exactly how valuable the Career Center can be, but the services provided can really be the difference in getting that co-op or internship we all long for.
Watch Elizabeth's career success story to learn about her experience with the FBI.
My unique summer experience at BMW Manufacturing has transformed my understanding of our world. I learned a lot about the complex manufacturing process involved in producing BMW X-series vehicles for the entire world. With 1,400 vehicles being produced daily, I had the opportunity to work closely with BMW’s brightest engineers on ‘live’ production line with various process improvement and efficiency projects. While working with engineers, I received ‘hands-on’ training that significantly improved my technical and professional skill-sets. My eye-opening experience has further solidified my decision of studying Industrial Systems Engineering as well as reinforced why it was one of the best decision I ever made. I am very thankful and grateful of all my mentors for their help in getting me here as it wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. Key to success is your attitude towards the challenges you face in life. Therefore, never give up and never give in on your dreams because hard work always pays off. I would highly encourage every college student to gain real-world experience before you graduate. It’s totally worth it!
