Name: Candace Gyimah
Major and College: Information Systems at University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Internship Title: Project Management Intern
Internship Site: IJC Systems Inc
1) Please tell us about your career goals.
My career goals have evolved over time, and after this internship, I’ve gained more clarity on the path I want to pursue. Initially, I was focused on becoming a Systems Engineer or a Data Analyst, roles that align with my interest in technology and data-driven decision-making. However, this internship experience has inspired me to expand my goals and add Project Management to my career path.
To achieve these goals, I plan to pursue various certifications that will enhance my expertise and marketability in the tech industry. Specifically, I’m aiming to earn certifications such as AWS Cloud Practitioner, Scrum Master, and Project Management Professional (PMP). These certifications will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in these fields.
Beyond formal certifications, I’m committed to continuous learning. I plan to stay updated with the latest technology trends, continuously improve my skills, and expand my knowledge base. This will not only keep me competitive in the job market but also ensure that I can contribute effectively to any organization I join. My goal is to build a career that blends technical expertise with strong project management capabilities.
2) Tell us about your internship (i.e. day-to-day responsibilities, special projects/clients and work culture).
During my internship, my day-to-day responsibilities included a variety of tasks aimed at enhancing the company’s online presence and outreach efforts. I was responsible for making updates to the company website, including creating a landing page to better capture leads and drive traffic. I also reached out to schools, churches, and other organizations to explore opportunities for providing training services, which involved drafting emails and making phone calls to potential clients.
Additionally, I was involved in creating and managing social media accounts for the company, which included developing content strategies, posting regularly, and engaging with the audience. I helped organize and host training events, which involved logistical planning, coordinating with participants, and ensuring everything ran smoothly. A significant part of my role also involved designing flyers and videos to promote the company and its events, which allowed me to tap into my creative skills.
I did a lot of research to bring new ideas on how to grow the visibility of our company, looking into industry trends, competitor strategies, and potential partnerships. This research helped inform the strategies we implemented to increase our outreach and impact.
The work culture was great; I mainly worked closely with my boss, who was welcoming, kind, and supportive. We had a good relationship, and I always felt comfortable discussing any challenges or questions I had. This positive environment made it easy to be productive and creative, knowing that I had the support I needed to succeed.
3) Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I first heard about the position through a group chat for my campus ministry. It was around the middle of the spring semester, sometime in April, when someone shared the opportunity in the chat. As soon as I saw it, I immediately clicked on the link because I was eager to gain work experience. The position aligned well with my career goals, so I didn’t waste any time submitting my application.
4) Which of the following resources did you use to find your current experience?
Student Organizations/Scholar Groups
5) What have you enjoyed the most about your position or organization?
What I’ve enjoyed most about my position is the flexibility it offers. Even though I have designated hours on certain days, there’s a lot of freedom in how I can manage my time. If I’m unable to complete tasks on a scheduled day, I have the flexibility to make up those hours on another day, which helps me balance my responsibilities more effectively.
Surprisingly, I also found enjoyment in research during this internship. In the past, I viewed research as a school chore, but this experience has shifted my perspective. I’ve come to see research not just as a task but as a valuable tool that can lead to impactful outcomes, such as helping someone advance their goals or teaching new concepts to others. This newfound appreciation has made the work more fulfilling and enjoyable for me.
6) How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe I’ve made a positive impact through my work, which is evident from the feedback I’ve received from my boss. She mentioned that she enjoys working with me, which I take as a strong indication of my contribution to the team. Additionally, the hard work I put into the tasks assigned to me has led to successful outcomes, such as hosting significant events and receiving positive responses from clients who reached out afterward. This shows that my efforts have not only been recognized but have also contributed to the success and growth of the organization.
7) What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience (i.e. Internship search, Resume or Interview tips)?
My advice to students seeking an internship or similar experience is to be persistent and proactive in your search. Apply to as many relevant opportunities as possible—don’t be discouraged by a lack of prior work experience. I, too, had no work experience before securing my position and faced disappointment after numerous applications, but persistence paid off in the end. Additionally, thoroughly prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and formulating thoughtful responses. This preparation will help you display confidence and competence during the actual interview. Lastly, always have at least two insightful questions ready to ask your interviewer; this helps show your genuine interest in the role and can provide valuable information about the organization and position. Remember, each application and interview is a learning experience that brings you closer to securing the opportunity you’re aiming for!