Colin interned at the Williamsport/Lycoming Keystone Opportunities Zone and Discovery Machine. At Discovery Machine, he performed market research on potential opportunities for new business development. Colin was offered a full-time position as a knowledge coordinator upon graduation.

Where did you intern?

I interned at two locations, one in both the fall and spring semesters. The fall semester internship was at the Williamsport/Lycoming KIZ and IMC. The internship for the spring semester was at Discovery Machine, Inc.

How did you land the internship?

I landed the internship with the assistance of Anne Landon and the IMS department. I started by looking at a list of locations which have hosted interns in the past and determined if any were of interest. Anne also proposed companies which she though I would enjoy working for and where I could gain valuable experience. In both semesters I ultimately was offered an interview and accepted an internship offer.

Most valuable experience?

The best experiences I have gained throughout my internships were those that can be practically applied to my future career. I performed many tasks which may arise as I continue into my working life. For instance, completing press releases and researching potential new clients were very useful. They allowed me to enhance different skills and were of a practical use to the company.

Toughest challenge?

The toughest challenge I faced at Discovery Machine was learning how to use their computer software. Later assignments given by Discovery Machine, Inc. required the use of their computer program. The initial use of this program proved difficult in many cases, but by asking questions and learning new things as I went, I successfully used the program in the end.

Favorite part of the business practicum?

My favorite part of the class was working on skills which were needed in the job application process. Skills such as cover letter, business memo, and professional letter writing were among those that will be very useful in the future.

How did the internship help you for the future?

My internship grew into a job offer from Discovery Machine. By utilizing the knowledge I have learned at Lycoming College every day at my internship, I demonstrated my abilities. By demonstrating what I was capable of, Discovery Machine saw what I could do and began to see my ability to learn new things. Ultimately, Discovery Machine offered me a full-time position with their company as Knowledge Coordinator. I learned a lot throughout my internship, but more importantly I learned how to apply the knowledge I have learned throughout my four years in college. Without practical experience in the real world, it is impossible to know how to use the things learned in college.

Advice for other students

My advice to other students is that they try their best to learn all they can. They should take advantage of internships and work as hard as they can in those internships. By working hard individuals have the possibility to gain the most from their experiences and to impress employers. This could potentially be a great springboard for their future through a job offer or a great recommendation.