Ferris State University students gain valuable work experience through internships. Internships also can confirm or redirect career decision-making, provide marketability, develop people skills and enhance classroom learning. Many academic programs require one, but the experience is encouraged regardless to provide students with a better understanding of what will be expected of them in the workplace.
Many students are participating in internships this summer. Meet:
Nicholas Vruggink
He is: planning to complete his bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology and graduate in May 2020 from the College of Engineering Technology. Nicholas is from East Grand Rapids and completed his Associate of Applied Science degree in Industrial Technology.
His Internship: “I have spent the summer at National Bulk Equipment in Holland, as a Controls Engineer Intern, learning about the automation Industry and everything that comes with it. I believe I have been helping the company with the functionality of this department, helping make operations run smoother, while at the same time learning about the machines and the controls behind them. I have been able to give ideas and insight on how I think we can improve the logistics of the department.”
Was Ferris Involved In Securing Your Internship: “The university gave me the opportunity to meet my employer, and my teachers recommended me to the company. There are also several Ferris graduates on National Bulk Equipment’s staff, and they have taken time to share their experiences at Ferris State and made me feel comfortable in this job setting. The community of Ferris students, teachers, and graduates make me very happy that I decided to attend the university almost four years ago.”
Advice For Students Seeking Internships: “I believe they should keep an open mind about where they want to work and to show passion about what they are studying when communicating with employers. Showing employers that you have a lot of interest in what you are learning goes a long way when the company considers whether they want to take you on. Students looking for an internship should also take advantage of the numerous job fairs that the university puts on.”
Other Activities On Campus: ”I am currently a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) professional organization and I work at the Student Recreation Center as a supervisor for intramurals and club sports.”
Ferris Core Value Nicholas Relates to: Opportunity. “I think I have done a very good job of taking advantage of each opportunity
that the university has given me. I value them all and understand that it is a privilege
to be where I am today as a student. Thanks to my parents and my teachers and mentors
at Ferris I have been mindful of cherishing the opportunities I have been given and
to work as hard as I can to not let it go to waste.”