Google EYKPMGAmazonMicrosoftMcKinseyJ.P. MorganAccentureSantanderBank of ChinaTelefonicaHolcim BBVAEverisEssar Farah Abuatiyeh Data Processing and Analysis Intern in the Institutional Effectiveness and Achievement department at IE University Whether you’re on the cusp of graduation or just dipping your toes into the job search process, it’s no secret that real-world experience is a significant selling point to potential employers. That’s why we help students of the Bachelor in Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence to find internship opportunities in leading companies and organizations worldwide. Like Farah, you will gain at least six months of hands-on experience that will hone your technical and interpersonal capabilities and transform you into a highly in-demand professional in today’s competitive job market. What was the recruitment process like? I discovered the vacancy for a data processing and analysis intern position in the Institutional Effectiveness and Achievement department on the university’s career portal; I subsequently submitted my application. I was then invited for three interviews, which were conducted in a relaxed and focused environment that allowed me to showcase my strengths and experience effectively. In the final stage, I was asked to complete a test to evaluate my skills and competencies relevant to the position. One week later, I received the positive news that I’d been offered the position. Overall, I found the recruitment process to be efficient and transparent. The hiring team was dedicated and committed to selecting the right candidate for the position. The effort and time they put into the process is a testament to their commitment to finding and retaining the best talent. What kind of projects are you working on? As a data processing and analysis intern, I’m responsible for supporting the Data Officer in analyzing the data generated by the department over four years. My main duties include examining the questions posed by members of the community, assessing how information is generated and organized following various interactions, and designing and executing a comprehensive report based on the insights gained from our data analysis. To carry out these tasks, I utilize various data processing and analysis tools and techniques, such as data cleaning, statistical analysis and data visualization. Additionally, I’ve collaborated with the Data Officer to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data, as well as the insights that we derive from it. What do you consider the highlight of your experience so far? Undoubtedly, it has been learning and broadening my technical skill set. Simultaneously balancing my academic coursework and professional commitments has helped me sharpen my time management and multitasking skills. Working with such a dynamic and cohesive team has exposed me to a variety of perspectives on data analysis and its practical applications. Additionally, I’ve been able to cultivate my interpersonal and leadership abilities while contributing my ideas to the Data Officer and doing work that has a meaningful impact on the organization. This experience has been particularly rewarding as it has allowed me to gain a new understanding of how to integrate the skills I’m learning in my program into real-world scenarios. My collaboration with the Data officer has enabled me to gain an appreciation for the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving shared goals. Moreover, I’ve developed a deeper grasp of how to navigate complex organizational structures, which will prove useful in future professional endeavors. How has the experience benefited you? This professional experience has been instrumental in my professional growth. Working in a professional setting has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the day-to-day operations of a business. It has also equipped me with valuable skills such as effective communication, time management and task prioritization. And through regular communication with the Data Officer, I’ve learned how to articulate ideas, provide constructive feedback, and contribute to the development of effective solutions. This internship has given me a sense of responsibility and ownership., which has taught me how to prioritize tasks and manage my time effectively. I’ve learned to assess the urgency and importance of tasks, manage competing priorities and work under pressure to meet deadlines. Overall, it has been a significant turning point in my life, allowing me to develop essential skills, gain valuable insights and prepare myself for a successful career in the industry. What are your future career aspirations? As someone who has always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and healthcare, I’m highly motivated to pursue a career in the field. With the growth of digital technologies and the increasing availability of data, the healthcare industry is rapidly evolving and I believe that AI has the potential to revolutionize the way healthcare is delivered. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills and knowledge to build innovative AI-powered tools and technologies that can improve patient outcomes, enhance clinical decision-making and streamline healthcare delivery. Whether it’s developing algorithms to detect early signs of disease or creating personalized treatment plans, I’m eager to make a meaningful contribution to the field of AI and healthcare. Consequently, I’m committed to continuous learning and professional development. I plan to pursue advanced training in machine learning, natural language processing and other AI-related fields, as well as keep myself up to date with the latest advancements in healthcare technology; I believe that my internship is a wise step in that direction. I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to contributing to the ongoing transformation of healthcare. What tips or advice would you give to other students applying for an internship? If I had a euro for every internship rejection letter I received, I would be very rich! I understand how frustrating it can be to put yourself out there and not get the desired result. However, my advice to students is to never lose patience and always stay on the lookout for opportunities. I found that the more I applied, the more I learned about the application process and the better I got at interviewing. When it comes to finding opportunities, the internet is your best friend. There are so many platforms out there—from LinkedIn and Indeed to various companies’ career portals and even the IE Careers Center. Make it a habit to search and apply every day for at least 30 minutes to an hour: you never know when you might stumble upon that perfect opportunity. And don’t forget to get creative with your search! Reach out to your network, attend career fairs and consider taking on volunteer work or personal projects that can help build your skills and experience. Keep your chin up, stay motivated, and keep applying!