By: Sabrina Salvador, Health Care and Science Career Ambassador
The newly initiated, quarterly “How I Got This Job” series has transformed! Each quarter, DePaul students are invited to join the Career Center’s Health Care & Science Career Community in welcoming young professionals to share their career stories in health care & science.
We’re changing things up! On Wednesday, August 5, a current DePaul student will share their developing college and career journey as part of our “How I Got This Internship” series. This is an opportunity to learn, ask questions, network, and connect with fellow students who have similar interests.
This quarter, meet Meg Nair (DePaul BS ’21), an aspiring Clinical Psychologist with extensive research experience in DePaul’s Psychology Department. Learn about Meg’s journey from a biology major on a pre-med track to a psychology major pursuing graduate school clinical psychology programs. Meg will go in-depth about how networking and engagement can transform volunteer opportunities to valuable internships.
Students from all years and majors are welcome to join.
How I Got This Internship: Meg Nair (DePaul ‘21) Incoming Senior, Psychology Major, Research Intern Wednesday, August 5 from 3:00 – 4:00 PM (CST) Register on Handshake!
Employers host a variety of virtual events on Handshake to connect with students across the country and provide an inside look at their companies.
Common virtual events include:
Live Q&As with a recruiter or hiring manager. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions directly about what you’d like to know—including career opportunities, interview processes, company culture and more.
Panel discussions with current employees, including recent grads or alumni. You can learn about their backgrounds, career journeys and experiences at the company. As with Q&A events, there is usually an opportunity for you to ask the panelists a question at the end.
Office tours give you an exclusive look at what a typical day is like for an intern or new employee. Virtual tours are a unique way to see the lesser-known, fun aspects of life at the company that you can’t find anywhere else.
You should approach virtual event etiquette the same way you would for an in-person meeting with a potential employer. Here’s what to do before, during and after to make a great impression.
Before the event
Do some research. Learn more about the company by reading through their employer page on Handshake, as well as their company website. You should also do a quick online search to find any recent news articles and other information that can help you prepare thoughtful questions to ask.
Find a place to focus. Make sure that you are in a quiet place with a reliable internet connection, and test connectivity before the event. If you’re sharing the space with friends or family, ask if they can hold off on streaming movies or other activities that can take up a lot of internet bandwidth.
During the event
Dress professionally. We all know it’s more comfortable to job search in your pj’s. But when you’re attending an employer event via video, it’s a good idea to showcase your favorite career-ready outfit.
Set your computer in front of a neutral background. Keep the viewer’s eye focused on you, instead of the concert posters on your bedroom wall.
Show up on time. It’s important that you are on time for the event. Try signing in a few minutes early so you can fix any technical issues before the event begins. Being on time shows the host that you’re responsible, and ensures you don’t ask a question about something that was covered earlier in the program.
Maintain eye contact with the camera and concentrate on what the presenters are saying. Consider smiling and nodding occasionally as you would during an in-person conversation. Limit any distractions around you so that you’re not tempted to look away from your computer screen.
Ask a question at the right time. Bring a list of prepared questions, because one or more of these may be covered during the event. Have a pen and paper nearby so you can jot down new questions that you think of during the conversation. It’s important to wait for the host to say that it’s time for audience questions, before attempting to ask yours.
Consider tailoring your questions based on the type of event and who is hosting. For example, if you are attending a panel discussion on company diversity and inclusion, you might ask a question related to mentorship programs or resource groups for employees from underrepresented communities.
After the event
Be prepared to follow up. Employers host virtual events on Handshake to raise awareness about their company and build excitement about open positions. So when the event is over, stay engaged by visiting the employer’s page on Handshake and exploring their open jobs and internships. You can follow the employer by clicking the Follow button on their page—so you’ll be the first to know when they post new jobs.
Update your Handshake profile. A complete profile can help you get an early start on applying to one of the open jobs or internships. Check to see if a separate resume and cover letter are needed for the application so you can prepare them as well.
Be responsive. Many recruiters will reach out to students on Handshake to follow up after an event. If you receive a message from an employer, be sure to reply as soon as possible. Thank them for hosting the event and share something specific that you enjoyed or were glad to learn about the company. This will clearly show your interest and may help you get an interview!
Download the Handshake app in the App Store or Google Play so you’re notified when you receive an employer message.
We never really think about how four years can change someone’s life so drastically. Sometimes it takes a year, or a day, or even a second. A split second — that’s all it takes for your life to feel surreal. These past four years have been a short roller coaster ride that took me on a journey where every moment, and every second, was spent shaping my life to what it is now. We have all heard about The Road Not Taken, and I am proud to say that when I look back at my DePaul journey I see “I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”
I have always been the type of person to completely immerse myself in my surroundings and make relationships that last a lifetime. From my very first day at DePaul, I joined various organizations that not only helped in developing my identity but also guided me in becoming a leader. At DePaul, I was in the EDGE program, rushed Alpha Kappa Psi, was the Executive Marketer for the South Asian Student Association, was a part of The Ad Society, and even participated in multiple advertising competitions. All these communities were a big part of my DePaul experience.
During my time as the Vice President of Membership for Alpha Kappa Psi, I was able to guide a pledge class of over 30 people. Being a role model for such a large group of diverse individuals showed me how much I love being a part of a community that shares like-minded goals. I got a chance to teach my new brothers the importance of public speaking, networking, practicing how to interview, and even how to professionally dress. Being a role model for pledges, just like I was back in freshman year, was an experience that I will never forget.
Alpha Kappa Psi – 2015
I am grateful for being able to lead multiple organizations, but getting the opportunity to be a leader on campus is an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world. Being a Facilities Assistant in Housing Services added another layer to my college experience. I cannot imagine the past two years without my wonderful team that has supported me, actively listened and were there with me from the beginning of the year to the end. I was able to meet some of my best friends by working in Housing, and I am thankful to have made an impact on people that I met.
Facilities Assistants, 2017 – 2018
I also had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris and New York for marketing and advertising. I learned so much about the industry and where I fit. This past year was very career-heavy for me, I tried to absorb as much knowledge as I could to prepare myself for post-graduation. I had to lean on my friends, family, and professors who helped guide me to where I wanted to be.
I dove into the advertising world head-first and I am so proud to say I have accomplished so much more than I ever imagined! I won first place out of 12 teams in Ad Campaigns, co-designed a campaign for Ocean Spray, led an eight-person creative team for Wienerschnitzel, participated in the One Club Creative Bootcamp with Leo Burnett, visited multiple advertising agencies (even got the opportunity to go to Cramer-Krasselt’s Job Shadow Day), and completed four internships!
Ariana during her time in Paris
“Practice like you’ve never won, and perform like you’ve never lost” is my mantra and I have been following it with whatever I do. I believe we are all very creative people; we should use our creativity, ambition, and confidence everywhere we go to make a change — big or small. Small steps are big when it comes to reaching goals; so, not giving up when life gets hard and helping those around you pick themselves up is what I exist for. I am here to make an impact on the Earth, then reach for the stars. — Ariana’s Mission Statement
My mission in the world is to make sure I am bringing my full potential and 110% effort in everything I do. It’s important to not only be a leader, but also a role model for generations to come. So, What Must be Done? We need to be kind to one another, educate those willing to absorb all knowledge, and create leaders that will become role models someday. Being a Vincentian means to incorporate the four pillars in our daily lives. First, by understanding the roots of DePaul by hearing stories of our founding members, and then applying them to our own experiences. Also, being aware of our surroundings and reflecting on the paths we take to reach different destinations. Then, helping lead people on their journey and discovering how your role impacts others in this changing world. I hope to integrate my personal values such as integrity, knowledge, leadership, ambition, family, and kindness to make sure I am helping all those individuals reach their full potential. Everyone has a bit of gold hidden within them, and I hope to help them find it.
Ariana’s friends, who’ve helped her grow
This past year is when I had my transformative moment. Reflecting over the past four years is when I realized how much DePaul, its different communities, my leadership experience, and all my mentors have shaped me and enhanced my college career. It wasn’t one moment — it was the journey of the last four years that guided me to now. Every moment spent laughing with friends in the Loop, stressing in John T. Richardson Library, accomplishing goals in the 14 E. Jackson’s 12th floor, or even sharing a meal in Student Center 104 has made me feel at home.
By Katie Tychynska, Summer 2019 Pricing and Promotions Intern at U.S. Cellular
This summer, I got the opportunity to intern at U.S. Cellular in Chicago. I was a part of the Pricing & Promotions team within the marketing department of USCC. In addition to this, I just finished my last class online at DePaul and recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Finance. This summer has been busy, but so rewarding!
You have most likely heard of U.S. Cellular, as they are the 5th largest wireless carrier in the nation! As an intern on the Pricing & Promotions team, I play a crucial role in helping USCC create pricing and phone plan strategies to meet their business objectives (no coffee runs or filing here). A day in the life of a USCC intern is different every day but generally, it usually goes like this…
7:30AM
Rise and shine! I wake up and get ready for work. I walk and feed my puppy before grabbing a coffee and walking to the train. USCC has no shortage of coffee in the office but, since I’m not a morning person, I definitely need my dose right after I wake up.
8:00AM
I live in the South Loop of Chicago, so I typically take the blue line to work every day. It’s super convenient because the train drops me off right into the USCC parking lot!
9:00AM
I get to the office and take the elevator up to the 9th floor. My desk is at the south end of the building, with an amazing view of the Chicago skyline! The first thing I do in the morning is check my emails and schedule for the day. Something super cool about the cubes at USCC is that the barriers are actually dry erase boards, which are helpful for jotting down quick notes.
I prepare my to-do list for the day and get started with any projects I am working on. One of the projects I worked on this summer was creating a plan for a specific customer segment we want to target. The best thing about working at U.S. Cellular is that I get to be independent and a self-starter in working on my projects. I analyze data, do competitive research, and present my findings and strategy to the team.
11:00AM
I typically sit in on a few meetings in the morning and throughout the day. My leader is very receptive to letting me sit in on meetings I am interested in.
For example: I was interested in learning more about market research so my leader invited me to sit in on recurring meetings regarding a market research initiative she is working on. The wireless industry is very exciting and fast-paced and there is always more to learn!
12:00PM
For lunch, I typically will pack my own. Sometimes, I grab lunch from the cafeteria (which has so many great options) or Farmer’s Fridge (my favorite), which is a fresh vending machine full of delicious salads. I might catch up with some of the other interns or even take a walk around the campus to get some steps in.
3:00PM
I usually have some meetings to attend in the afternoon. I’ve also been able to attend a few workshops during my time here. One workshop I attended was about positioning within marketing and we got to go through different case studies and also brainstorm positioning ideas for U.S. Cellular.
5:00PM
I wrap up any emails or meeting invitations I have to send out and head out to catch my train.
The skills I have learned at U.S. Cellular are invaluable as I have interacted with so many experienced people from all different departments and learned from them. I encourage everyone to try to have at least one internship during their time at DePaul. It will really set you apart from others and lead you to a successful post-grad career.
These 10 companies are currently looking to hire DePaul students to fill internships. Explore these opportunities and many more at depaul.joinhandshake.com.
YASOU, which translates to “a toast to your health,” is a luxury wellness, Greek-inspired skin care line that has all natural ingredients. YASOU’s mission is to combine the beauty traditions, natural and organic ingredients from the rich culture of Greece with American technology, merging “old world” with “new world” to create a new Greek skin care experience for all.
Northwestern Mutual is an American financial services company that provides consultation on wealth and asset income protection, education planning, retirement planning, investment advisory services, trust and private client services, estate planning and business planning.
L2TMedia provides paid search, display, YouTube advertising, SEO, social media and online reputation management services. With this robust suite of digital products, L2TMedia has become one of the premier service providers of digital marketing solutions in the automotive industry.
826CHI is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting students ages 6 to 18 with their creative and expository writing skills, and to helping teachers inspire their students to write.
Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly is a national network of non-profit volunteer-based organizations committed to relieving isolation and loneliness among the elderly.
At Weigel Broadcasting Co., every person plays a fundamental role in shaping the product and impression we make on all of our viewers, our advertisers, and our suppliers.
MDA is leading the fight to free individuals — and the families who love them — from the harm of muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases that take away physical strength, independence and life. We use our collective strength to help kids and adults live longer and grow stronger by finding research breakthroughs across diseases, caring for individuals from day one and empowering families with services and support in hometowns across America.
GCM Grosvenor is one of the largest, most diversified independent alternative asset management firms worldwide. The firm has core expertise in product and custom investment solutions. Its product solutions provide turn-key access to both diversified and specialized alternative investment portfolios. Its customized investment solutions give clients an active role in the development of their alternatives programs.
Livongo is an organization that empowers people with chronic conditions to live better and healthier lives. Powered by advanced data science, Livongo creates personalized experiences for members, so they receive the right information, tools, and support, at the right time.
PAWS is the Midwest’s largest no kill shelter, humane education and spay/neuter clinic organization with a mission to create a no-kill Chicago. In addition they are not-for-profit and a state of the art, cageless facility.
As many of you continue to search for, and even score, the perfect summer opportunities, you’re coming into the Career Center looking for advice. The advice you’re seeking varies, but the sentiment is the same: you want to know the secret to standing out.
The bad news is that there is no secret. The good news is that while each internship is completely unique, there is always one common factor – you. And you have the ability to control so much of your experience.
So while there isn’t a one-size-fits-all piece of advice, start by showing up and by being true to yourself. Remember, a positive attitude goes a long way.
And while you’re at it…
Take some risks, and if you’re gutsy enough, take plenty of them.
Seek a balance between hustle and rest and strive to be compassionate about both.
Break out of your comfort zone and try something that seems a little scary every day.
You only get as much out of your experiences as you put into them, so learn something from everyone around you, and be devoted to your work… ultimately, your success depends on it.
Good luck!
Internship Resources
Get your application materials ready by making an appointment with a career community advisor or stopping by our offices (LPC/Loop) for walk-in resume reviews with peer career advisors – no appointment necessary!
The Internship Plu$ Program provides $1,200 in financial assistance to eligible undergraduate students working in a quarter-long, unpaid internship while enrolled in a UIP or departmental internship course.
UIP’s practical 4-credit courses can help you make the most of your internship experience and fulfill DePaul’s Experiential Learning graduation requirement.
There are thousands of internship opportunities for DePaul students and alumni posted on DePaul’s Handshake platform. Check back regularly – new opportunities are posted every day!
Alpha Kappa Psi – 2015
Facilities Assistants, 2017 – 2018
This summer, I got the opportunity to intern at U.S. Cellular in Chicago. I was a part of the Pricing & Promotions team within the marketing department of USCC. In addition to this, I just finished my last class online at DePaul and recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Finance. This summer has been busy, but so rewarding!
