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:
Lezley Rodriguez
She is: a senior from Holland, Michigan, studying Business Administration, with a minor in International Business.
Her Internship: is with the headquarters of Steelcase International. “It has been a very interesting learning experience this summer, observing how a large company like Steelcase is handling the pandemic. Most, if not all, organizations had to make quick decisions regarding various areas of their operations. I have been able to help Steelcase communicate with dealers about orders that need to be expedited or delivered ahead of schedule.”
Was Ferris Helpful In Preparing You For This Internship? “The university introduced me to the program ‘Building Bridges Through Education,’ through the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Grand Rapids. As a first-generation student, it can be difficult knowing where to start when you are looking for employment or an internship. The program provided me with assistance in connecting with local businesses and professionals and preparing for an interview. Promesa Scholars and Amigos de Promesa at Ferris have also impacted my college career, preparing me for my life after college. We have had workshops about resume building, culture intelligence, financing, which have allowed me to develop and polish my soft and hard skills.”
Future Plans: “At some point in the future, I want to move to Houston, Texas, where most of my extended family is located. I want to work for a corporation one day and occasionally travel as part of my job. I chose Business Administration, as it is broad-based and fits me perfectly. I am a person who is open to learning in a variety of professional capacities.”
Other Activities On Campus: “I am the current president of the Chi Epsilon chapter of Sigma Lambda Gamma National
Sorority Incorporated at Ferris. I am committed on making positive change on campus,
which is why I am also a founding member of the United Greek Council and currently
serve as Vice President. As founding members, we believe this council will promote
the awareness of multicultural diversity within our college and also support and promote
the works of our member organizations. Along with Greek life, I am also a member of
Order of Omega the Greek honor society, I am also part of the Hispanic Student Organization,
Promesa Scholars and Amigos de Promesa. In Promesa Scholars, I am a coach and mentor
to underclassmen transitioning from high school to college. I know the struggles to
adjust to a new environment. This program is great at making sure Latinx students
have a support system and serves to boost retention of first-generation college students.
Amigos de Promesa is a program for upperclassmen, where we polish our soft skills
and prepare for life after college and help guide underclassmen in their pursuit of
success as students.”
MEET THE INTERNS HOMEPAGE