Ready to get inspired for your job, internship, or career search? Each month we will spotlight an OSU student that has inspired us when it comes to their career development. Check out their success stories—besides inspiration, they also show that academic major does not have to restrict your goals and that there are many ways to define success.

Want to nominate an OSU student or alum for the Student/Alum Spotlight series? Or do you want to share your own success? Then please fill out this quick form and Career Services will contact the person nominated.

Name: Katie Merrill

Majors: Industrial Engineering and Finance

Year in School: Junior (3^rd Year)

Internship: Boeing

1. How did you find out about the internship? I found out about this internship through the OSU Fall Career Fair in 2011. I was a sophomore in Finance and a freshman in Engineering. I attended to justify my double major and see if there was a potential need for someone with my skill set in the workforce. I was not looking for a particular internship and was planning on going back home and work on a neighboring farm that summer.
2. What did you do in your position? At Boeing I was a Methods Process Analyst Industrial Engineering Intern with the Wings Team on the 787 Program. I was able to make an impact while working with a fantastic team and knowledgeable mechanics. In my position I learned about the airplane build and also about collaborating with different people throughout the organization. This internship gave me insight that I had never had before about a large manufacturing environment and an Industrial Engineer’s impact within that community.
3.  What advice do you have for others interested in finding an internship? I have one piece of advice for others interested in finding internships. Be enthusiastic about learning. A manager or company is interested in people who are willing to come in with an open mind and a good attitude.
4. Did Career Services assist you anyway? If so, how? Career Services has all of the credit for giving me wings to fly. I never thought I would have an internship after my second year of school. Due to the career fair, I was able to begin my journey with Boeing Commercial Airplanes and justify the validity of my double major.