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 myriad internships this summer. Meet:
Jay Janutol
He is: a junior from Troy, studying Construction Management. Jay's internship is with Hensel Phelps, headquartered in Greeley, Colorado. "I am independently studying the Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) aspects of construction, to better myself for the workforce."
What He is Learning on His Internship: "Hensel Phelps immerses you in knowledge and experience, allowing you to develop and leave as a well-rounded intern. Through their dedication to excellence and the delivery of high-quality service, they have outlined their high standards, which they expect each intern to meet. From the start, I began to methodically receive tasks to perform on my own, under direct supervision. For example, we used computer-aided software, which enabled fluidity amongst trades on site. Eventually, I was running meetings and conducting coordination efforts that actively contributed to the project's vitality."
How Ferris Helped Jay Secure His Internship: "The Construction Management program provided an employee mixer, where the students could meet with employers before the semi-annual Career Fair. With each employee having a slotted time, students could attend all companies' (or those specific ones they wanted to see) presentations. During the mixer's intermission, students had the opportunity to converse with the employers, potentially scheduling future interviews. This provided a crucial opportunity to present oneself, developing a greater potential of gaining an internship."
Future Plans: "I look forward to becoming an influential leader within the construction community. This internship has developed and reinforced soft skills vital internally and externally to the construction work environment. I know that my time spent with Hensel Phelps will assist in achieving my end goal, which is to be the president of a construction company."
Advice For Other Students Seeking Internships: "It is my strong recommendation to seek out an internship every year to attend Ferris State University. I remember the advice of a professor at the College of Engineering who said, "If you attend all your classes, participate in the building competitions, and conduct an internship every year, you will leave this school with the highest potential for success." I challenge my fellow students to do just that, do all you can to better yourself in school, and conduct internships with different companies to figure out what suits you."
Other Activities On Campus: "I am the current president of Associated Construction Students (ACS), a registered
student organization (RSO) with the University."
MEET THE INTERNS HOMEPAGE