Learning is a core value at enFocus, and our interns are leaning into their experience and using their existing skills while leveraging new ones. The projects that our interns are working on span from sectors in manufacturing and technology, to childcare and sustainability. Interns Harshit, Caroline, and Maggie describe their current capabilities, how they use them in current projects, and what they are learning throughout their internship experience.
Harshit Pant, an industry intern earning his Masters in Strategy, Operations, and Supply Chain Management for the University of Notre Dame, is exploring career paths in consulting through enFocus’ project based model. His work on projects with iNDustry Labs at Notre Dame and enFocus has strengthened already existing skills in financial modeling, data analysis, AutoCAD, operations and supply chain management, and project management. He is working towards expanding his knowledge in project management and data analysis.
Harshit elaborates on what he has learned since joining enFocus: “During my internship at enFocus, I have acquired valuable project management experience by coordinating grant research and developing comprehensive application documents. Additionally, my analysis of financial models and market data has significantly sharpened my data analysis skills. Midway through my internship, I feel I have already learned a lot in enhancing my skills in consulting, project management, and data analysis.”
Intern Maggie Kearns is also using her background to bolster professional experience for her interests in sustainability and wellness. As South Bend native, she is excited about the opportunity enFocus gives her to work within her community to strengthen the region. She is currently earning her Bachelor’s degree from Clemson University in Bioengineering. She has a strong interest and aptitude for sustainability and environmental wellness. Her project with urban forestry efforts help her develop skills in market research and innovative solutions.
“I believe I bring a unique perspective to the team and I am able to help address solutions by communicating effectively with a diverse group of people. My passion for wellness and sustainability will help me to work collaboratively among many individuals to develop improved solutions to pressing problems in the South Bend community. I am thrilled to work on increasing Urban Forestry in the South Bend area to improve air quality, energy efficiency, and so much more!”
Caroline Quinn, a Psychology student at the University of Notre Dame, is learning to develop and maintain professional relationships. Her background in psychology primes her to relate to others, discover their needs and strategically analyze data to create and implement a plan.
She says, “I am grateful to be given the opportunity to improve my relationship-building skills through collaboration with enFocus staff and sponsors throughout the region. In developing these relationship building skills, I have discovered how to navigate the business world and have gained confidence in doing so. I believe that my internship at enFocus has allowed me to develop valuable skills that will transfer into my personal development not only in the workforce, but in life.”
Each of our interns has strengths that they bring to enFocus. Not only are they gaining specific technical skills, but they are also learning to form meaningful relationships with project sponsors, mentors, and other team members. Their existing skills expand their capacity to learn new ones, and they look forward to applying their newfound knowledge in impactful ways across our region and beyond.