"The biggest takeaway from this internship is being able to figure out what projects that I am passionate and curious about that would help me decide the type of career I would like.

I also think that the internship helped me further understand what it takes to efficiently maintain a university."

Abby Gisler, senior, PPPM ('21-'22 cohort)

"Through this internship, I learned that I like long-term projects, not just day-to-day stuff. It helped me know what kind of career or work I want to go into. I also learned about how I want to work professionally. 

The work was interesting for me as a liberal arts major because it helped me develop my communication skills and planning skills. Looking towards a career, this helped a lot with resume building, communication skills. Also, the professional development and training was maybe the best part. We explored Clifton Strengths and I loved learning so much about myself and my long-term goals. Finally, I really loved the long-term projects and the behind-the-scenes perspective on how things work at UO."

Alexis Han, sophomore, International Studies and Sociology ('19-'20 cohort)

"The VPFA internship has allowed me to open my eyes to the large community of the University of Oregon. There are so many moving parts of higher ed that we do not always see being students. This internship taught me so many valuable skills, improved professional development and connected me to new and amazing people in the workforce as well as friends that I will hold on to forever. We as students are exposed to so many career avenues, enabling us to better navigate our future within this internship. Every step of the way our supervisors are always so supportive creating a positive and great environment for us students to be successful!"

Alyssa Hew, senior, Business Administration with concentrations in finance and marketing ('21-'22 cohort)

"I applied for this internship during my first term at the UO. I was a transfer from Portland and an international student looking for a job on campus. I was fairly new and I wanted to learn about the internal operations of the university.

This internship got me out of my comfort zone. It made me work on my public speaking and made me more confident.

Even though I didn’t get to work with Finance and Admin Shared Services (FASS), I got an inside-look at how they use their spreadsheets, which was super fun. I also got hints and advice on how to improve my spreadsheets, which is something I can use for the rest of my life. There is always something to learn."

Amanda Moraes de Oliveira Mourao, junior, Business Administration ('19-'20 cohort)

"Through working in the Utilities and Energy and Human Resource departments, I grew my skills in communicating, multi-tasking, and problem-solving. For U&E I analyzed data, meeting regularly with my supervisor to discuss Excel tools and how we should share data visually using Tableau. The project helped management make better decisions using the information and I become really confident in using Tableau and Excel. In HR, I worked on employee recognition, completing a lot of different tasks while using multiple documents and platforms at the same time and enhancing my planning skills. 

I would say this internship is super valuable! It gave me the opportunity to see the ‘backstage’ of the university. As a student, college to me is a place to gain knowledge and experience. In the internship, I got to see the work done by people behind the scenes and be a part of it! It’s so amazing to learn the process of how the departments contribute to the UO operations. I gained many general skills that I can apply to my student life and future professional career."

Aria Chen, sophomore, Accounting (’20-’21 cohort)

"I was attracted to this internship because it was a chance to work closely with Jamie and her team, which is a part of the campus community that sometimes seems very far away from the general population. It was also a wonderful opportunity to work with departments that were very detached from my community and departments I had spent most of my time around.

This internship set me up for success because by working in so many places, it made me realize it's really important to find something to love about the work you do even if the space or subject matter isn't entirely what you wanted. I appreciated that my supervisors and others were as excited to work with me as I was to work with them. It really put into perspective how disconnected some parts of the university are from the students, and I think this internship has done an incredible job at bridging some of that gap."

Brya Patterson, senior, General Science ('19-'20 cohort)

"Through the UOAdmin internship, I have gained a deeper knowledge and understanding of the different portfolios within the university. There are a variety of careers in higher education and the public sector that have intrigued me that I had never heard of before interning through VPFA.

For my business administration minor, I found many of the skills were correlated and mirrored each other. My first project, I spent a majority of my time on Microsoft Excel and was able to apply my skills learned to my in-class work and assignments. Additionally, I found myself learning about the different departments at the university and what it takes to run a university. My cohort was full of amazing, hard-working students who constantly inspire me to take risks and grow as a student, intern, and overall person.

This is an amazing program and great way to feel connected and involved within the university. The program allows you to apply your professional strengths and overcome weaknesses. The supervisors are flexible and understanding while pushing you to take risks and grow as a professional."

Citlalic Estrada, sophomore, Human Physiology ('21-'22)

"In this internship, I have learned how to take initiative on projects that are advanced and apply to real‐world skills that will help me in my future career. I have learned to be more self‐aware of how I can be a better student and worker in the professional world. I have also gained the vital skills to be able to critically communicate with other members and managers one‐on‐one or in a group.

The most valuable skills that I have gained during this internship is how to effectively network with other members in my group and make lasting relationships. Also, I have learned to reach outside my assigned department to connect with many other people to learn valuable skills from them. This allows me to be proactive in seeking out the best people to learn from and expand my network regardless of where my initial boundaries may be set.

When I was working with Jon Marcheta in FASS, we were able to take a trip up to the new Portland Campus, the Ballmer Institute! It was an amazing experience because we were shown around by the head person who was overseeing the entire operation of building a new college campus. I also got to learn how operational finance can be incorporated into planning for big projects like the construction and operation of a completely new campus.

This internship is a great experience regardless of what major you are in now. Everything has a real‐world and business focus somewhat, but there is something valuable for all majors to learn. The supervisors are very nice and knowledgeable connections to learn from and have as support figures as you continue your academic and professional journey."

David Cynkin, senior, Business and Economics ('22-'23 cohort)

"I discovered this campus is like a tiny city in itself, with opportunities to network with everyone you meet. Coming into this internship, my goal was to enhance and learn new skills, and boy, did I succeed! 

The cohort became like a second family, which enhanced the professional development meeting experience. Changing departments during the year offered tremendous knowledge on what truly goes on around the campus throughout different departments. From FASS allowing me to apply skills learned in a classroom to real University of Oregon financial data, to HR teaching me about HTML website coding.

I cannot stress enough how much I have enjoyed this internship!"

David Trujillo, senior, Business ('21-'22 cohort)

“The internship year helped me learn that I am way more capable than I thought and that it’s okay to be scared of new things as long as you give it a try. Also, it has helped me learn the best learning environment for myself and the way I like to work.

I learned so much more about Excel, as well as some website design and expertise in Qualtrics surveys. Learning how to conduct interviews and meetings was super helpful too and helped me gain confidence in speaking to management.

I am really proud of ramping up the Years of Service program at the UO. The program affects a lot of people in such a positive way, which is something I was glad to be a part of. Also, I am glad to have started off the plan to make UO more bicycle friendly; I hope this plan develops in the coming years.”

Diego Pleitez, senior, Psychology (’20-’21 cohort)

"I have learned a lot in this internship.

I learned that I find value in projects that will affect a lot of people. Working on homework always feels empty because it is just for a grade, but working on a website that people across campus will use, or helping determine the best way to manage UO’s energy provides a sense of meaning in my work.

I have also learned how to communicate within a large team. As an intern working with department heads, it is important to learn how to advocate for yourself when your supervisor has great responsibility and little time. I think this will be helpful after graduation when working in an entire organization.

My favorite part of the internship was the professional development. It was a great way to learn from professionals in a variety of spaces; and a unique way to connect with my fellow cohort students from across different majors and age levels.

This internship allows students to step into the professional world of higher education, and that is an opportunity available nowhere else at UO."

Ethan Rogers, senior, Business Administration ('22-'23 cohort)

"I learned that I enjoy structured work, but I also love to have creative freedom. I think that I want to have a career that has both. In the internship, I was able to expand on my Excel skills, data organization and analysis, how to operate Adobe software, and how to communicate effectively and professionally.

For me, this internship was a pivotal point in my academic career. I learned that I like to learn from people that are patient with me. I was very lucky to have that for the entire duration of the internship, which is something I'm very appreciative of.

I am proud to have created a self-guided tour that is now on the CPFM website! I was also able to help the Business Affairs Office asset tagging, which was another great learning experience."

Eve Manumaleuna, sophomore, Advertising ('20-'21 cohort)

"This internship opened my mind to all of the different jobs and careers you can have on campus. I am interested in being a planner and I love transportation, but I didn't realize that I could pursue a career in planning at a university. The experience also showed me that I am most satisfied when I'm able to collaborate with people and do various kinds of work throughout the day, helping me realize I want to do project-based work.  

During the internship I gained specific skills using Qualtrics surveys, Smartsheets, Excel, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). I also conducted interviews and was able to build my professional communication, research, qualitative analysis, and project management skills. It was great to be given somewhat developed project ideas and help define specific outcomes and create final products. Overall, the internship bolstered my confidence in applying the skills I learned in my classes to real-world projects and taught me numerous new ones." 

Grace Kaplowitz, senior, Planning, Public Policy, and Management (PPPM) ('19-'20 cohort)

"I learned a lot about myself during this internship. In terms of my communication style with supervisors, I learned I am very straightforward and have no trouble giving suggestions and feedback to improve the work, even if it was not expected or requested. I now understand that I like that approach in a supervisor as well—someone who is clear with direction and guidelines and doesn’t leave room for ambiguity. I also found out that I enjoy when supervisors take the time to check in on a human level as well as talking about the work. 

This internship is a great opportunity to learn about yourself and develop your skills. If you are a freshman or sophomore, you can explore your interests and be exposed to aspects of the professional world. Finally, I think this is a good platform for students to connect with students outside of your educational level and major, and to understand what goes into the work on the administrative side of operating a university.” 

Hannah Li, senior, Advertising (‘20-’21 cohort)

"The UOAdmin Internship enabled me to not only learn more about and work within three different sectors in Finance and Administration but also taught me life skills that will be valuable long after I leave the UO. 

Switching departments each term helped me develop new department-specific skills and gain a more widespread understanding of the university's administrative processes. The projects I was a part of, the relationships I built through my attendance at department meetings, and intern-specific professional development sessions have all worked to give me real-world experience within the concept of higher education.

I greatly enjoyed my time as an intern in the UOAdmin Internship, and am grateful for the insight it offered me on my future career options. Overall, the internship gave me the opportunity to further my involvement on campus and work on projects that will better the campus environment for students, faculty, and staff alike." 

Helen Balawejder, junior, Global Studies ('21-'22 cohort)

"I learned Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Smartsheet. There was a ton of career development stuff like resume building, networking, learning marketable skills, and the ability to recognize how to best market yourself.

The diversity of the work was a strong point for me. I was involved a lot; it was not passive work.

The other thing that I really liked is that this gave me real work experience. I got to sit in on a lot of high-level meetings with the HIPAA officer, including a really cool AI development meeting."

Huntley Sims, senior, Economics and Cinema Studies ('19-'20 cohort)

"The UOAdmin internship has taught me countless valuable lessons, but the most important one is to appreciate the diversity around us.

As a member of the 2021-2022 cohort, I got the experience to cooperate with people from different departments and backgrounds. Throughout the three terms, I didn't only learn how different departments in our university support each other, but I also saw that everyone has their own story, and each person brings a unique value to the table that creates a memorable educational experience for all members of the UO community."

Ignatius Bursa, senior, Business Administration ('21-'22 cohort)

"After spending more than a year learning remotely, the UOAdmin Internship was an incredible way to connect with different sectors of the University of Oregon while fostering new relationships among faculty, staff, and students.

The structure of this internship allows interns to improve all types of professional skills, such as working with new software and participating in engaging workshops. The internship supervisors have created a supportive environment where they are readily available to support each intern in any means necessary. Every week, I look forward to meeting with the internship cohort where we can discuss our different experiences with each unique project we are working on.

I am particularly proud of my work with The Office of Sustainability and Global Education Oregon on creating and implementing volunteer projects for students studying abroad to offset their carbon emissions from air travel. My experience interning with the VPFA has been extremely fulfilling and I have gained insight on how I work best in a professional environment."

Inanna Al-Najjar, junior, Psychology ('21-'22 cohort)

"The internship was great; I would go back and do it again. I learned that I love being independent and working with teams for a bigger goal. Also, I realized I like working towards goals I have a moral connection with; for the sustainability project, I was really inspired working on it. In the internship, I gained experience working in a professional environment. I found a balance between goals and deadlines and learned what it is like to manage my own schedule around my supervisor's schedule. I was surprised how much feedback I could give and how much say I had in that environment; I had control and input over what I did and when. 

The professional development was really, really, really valuable and I cannot stress enough how much the internship makes me feel ready for another job. The internship is really accessible because it is paid. And being run through the university made it really flexible and less intimidating. Overall, the internship was a very worthwhile experience for me.”

Jay Taylor, junior, Linguistics (’20-’21 cohort)

I would say the achievement I’m most proud of is the one I completed virtually (in spring). I helped design a wall display for the 4th floor of the Tykeson building showcasing alumni and what they're up to now. It’s a four-panel piece set to be installed later in 2020. I hope to able to return to campus to see how it turned out--seeing my work come to life will be really special. 

There's no other experience on campus like this internship. It's so different from regular typical student employment. It's an individual opportunity for you to grow professionally as you begin to chart the path towards your future career."

Jennifer Mendez-Ruiz, senior, Journalism and Spanish ('19-'20 cohort)

"There were different speakers and topics every week, which provided me with the opportunities to meet and interact with a diverse group of professionals.  All of the sessions were very inviting and friendly where I felt comfortable sharing my thoughts and ideas. Internship programs always have the potential to become too competitive, but our cohort and all of the speakers were very welcoming, helping to create a more inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

During the internship, it was interesting to visit and see the departments that I normally don’t have access to. It gave me a better understanding of the departments and their roles. I now understand more about a broad portfolio of administrative units and their interconnected structure in a higher education institution. I believe this internship is a great way to raise awareness of finance and administration units and their roles related to students."

Josephine Kim, junior, Business Administration and Economics ('22-'23 cohort)

“This internship was extremely valuable in relation to my major Planning, Public Policy, and Management as I was able to engage in work that directly built on knowledge I learned in classes: transportation policies, negotiations and decision-making processes, GIS  coursework, etc. The placements I had also gave insight into the management of a large nonprofit/public organization. I believe this internship would be extremely valuable to any PPPM major. I gained or enhanced skills such as:

- Communication: email etiquette, focus group facilitation, video conferencing.

- Technical skills around: GIS, web app creation, surveying, data gathering, data visualization, virtual presentations.

- Knowledge of: unit-specific dynamics and funding structures; pros/cons of different revenue streams; and information about university administration."

Kate Bentz, senior, PPPM (’20-’21 cohort)

"This internship is unique in that it exposes students to various working environments.

After experiencing different ways of working, I learned I have a clear preference for environments that set concrete expectations and working objectives but give me flexibility about how I organize myself to meet goals. Nevertheless, while I was able to identify the environment I work best in, I was also able to make the necessary adjustments so I could better adapt to working circumstances that don’t fully align with my work style. For example, I consider myself to be a visual person, so I asked my supervisor if I could change some of the settings for the organization system they set me up to use. Likewise, I became better at making compromises which was a big step forward for me.

My final project best complements my academic interests and strengths, but I was also able to enjoy the first two projects internships because there were various points where technology and regulations were introduced to me which I found fascinating. I also found document outlining to be very fun. As a result, I was glad that I found these new interests as it has made me reevaluate career choices before I graduate.

Overall, I would highly recommend this program as it has allowed me to explore different strengths and interest, I would not have been able to exercise otherwise. This internship and projects may be outside of your overall expertise but you should apply anyway--it will help you learn and grow before entering professional workplaces."

Krystal Rosas-Avalos, senior, Global Studies and Romance Languages ('22-'23 cohort)

"This internship helped me grow professionally and personally in every way I'd hoped and more. I got to connect with incredible supervisors and an amazing cohort of my peers which gave me the tools to put my best foot forward in every endeavor.

I would highly recommend this internship to anyone who is looking to be develop their professional toolkit, or to anyone who wants to know more about how UO functions. If I could do this internship year after year, I would!" 

Lauren Monkewicz, senior, Sociology and PPPM ( '21-'22 cohort)

"My internship was bookended by project management and data analysis. I’m a policy analyst, so I have lots of interest in processes. In a sense, this internship showed me my capacity to effectively perform process analysis. 

I learned how to use Tableau Desktop and how to create a dashboard. I was interested in what hiring looks like, and was able to learn how to apply policies to the hiring process. Through this, I gained experience working with union requirements. Throughout the course of this internship, I consistently did tangible things! With the Central Power Station, I was able to improve a core business process—-and as a result, I created something that will outlast me! Also, the Tableau dashboard that I created for Institutional Research was something that the UO can use for comparisons with other institutions, connecting data with policy outcomes."

Mackenzie Crampton, senior, PPPM and Spanish ('19-'20 cohort)

“Through this internship I’ve learned a lot! I now know the work environment best suited to my working style, I have a greater understanding of conflict, and I’ve been able to rekindle my passion for photography and learn technical skills in design software. Some of these are skills I’m not going to learn in my current academic program, so I appreciate the chance to gain these skills now.

I really enjoyed photographing campus and working with the Office of Campus Planning. Halfway through the internship we all met on campus to walk around, and everyone gave me tips for photographing architecture and other landscapes. I loved this moment because I could tell everyone loved their work and was passionate about making the campus environment the best it could, while being mindful of preserving buildings.

To the incoming cohort, I suggest you consider picking the project you would like the least, because it might end up being one of the best work experiences you’ve ever had!  I also suggest picking a project where you can learn skills not relevant to your professional/personal goals. You never know when those skills will be useful, and you might not have another opportunity.”

Makaal Williams, Conflict and Dispute Resolution Master’s student (’20-’21 cohort)

"This internship gives students a very unique perspective on the side of the UO that most students don't get to see or interact with. It opened my eyes to how much goes on behind the scenes to run the university, and how many divisions and groups work together to make the campus operate. 

The supervisors I had were wonderful. They asked me about my passions and what I wanted to work on, and assigned projects related to my interests. This internship really teaches you how to be self-motivated and work on projects that don't have a clearly defined roadmap, much like what it's like in the real world. The professional development sessions really helped me land a job post-graduation and the skills I learned I am using in my career today. I am very happy and thankful to have participated in this internship."

Matthew Parker, senior, Business Administration ('19-'20 cohort)

"What attracted me was the versatility of the internship. Instead of getting one job, this allows you to have three in different departments. It makes you well rounded. The other thing that attracted me was the flexibility. Grades are really important to me, and this was only 10 hours a week so it was manageable.

I learned a lot: I brushed up my Excel skills, including pivot tables. I learned to use Canva for infographic design as well as time-management and active-learning skills. Because it wasn’t in a classroom format, I had to teach myself. It wasn't from a textbook. The last thing I learned was being comfortable with ambiguity. You will be in a position where you don’t know the answers. Ask questions and be comfortable not knowing what is going on."

Michael Koukoumanos, senior, Business Administration ('19-'20 cohort)

"This internship has shown me that I struggle with asking for help or asking questions. These two things have definitely been something I have been working on throughout this year. Though it has improved, it is something I will work on continuously as well. I have also learned that the working world is more flexible and a lot less scary than I thought. Many people are willing to work with you to figure out a solution and people are generally trying to work with you, not against you.

A highlight for me was talking to working professionals about their journey. Learning about their professional journeys to where they are currently was interesting. As a college student, seeing the numerous ways they entered the positions they are in and the passion they have was very inspiring.

Come to this internship with an open mind: some things may not be exactly what you thought, but there are opportunities for you to work on your personal skill set. It is also a place to learn your likes and dislikes in how you want to work in the future."

Pauline Kim, sophomore, Polotical Science and PPPM ('22-'23 cohort)

"UOAdmin Internship gave me dozens of opportunities to work with higher education professionals.

I actively worked on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion projects, which was an honor.

I believe this internship led to me receiving a full-time job with a local nonprofit."

Rory Sweeney, senior, PPPM ('21-'22 cohort)

“The VPFA internship provided me the unique opportunity to assist with the development of various long-term projects on campus, which allowed me to further cultivate my skills in long-term planning and strategic thinking.

However, it’s more than just an opportunity for professional development, but also the chance to share your individual perspective with people who are capable of positively influencing our greater campus community.”

Semeredin Kundin, senior, Political Science and PPPM ('21-'22 cohort)

"As a business major and a senior, I really wanted to expose myself in different work environments and be able to learn what I am interested in and passionate about. This internship allowed me to face moments where I had to make decisions for the team by myself. Though it was a lot of pressure, I learned to trust myself, and trust in my ability to make real professional decisions.

Working in three units; Human Resources, Campus Planning and Facilities Management, and Print Services, I got to learn and improve in so many different soft skills and hard skills. For soft skills, some skills that were solidified through this internship experience would be communication, decision making, and time management skills. As for hard skills, I got to improve on my technical writing, project management, and Excel skills.

Personally, what I enjoyed most about this internship is really getting to see and learn about the way that our school operates. As a student, you don’t realize all the different departments at our school, and how each unit serves a very critical role in making this university operate successfully. Having the opportunity to not only work with some of these specific units, but also get the chance to go on tours, and attend meetings with different credible individuals is extremely valuable to me. Additionally, every single supervisor that I had each term was incredibly supportive. They truly wanted me to get the best experience out of this internship.

Don’t think twice about applying for this internship! Beyond gaining professional experience and skills, you have the opportunity work on certain projects and be in units that are interesting to you, but you might’ve never considered before. This internship allows you to be in different work environments, work on different projects, with different people. I believe this is an opportunity everyone should participate in as college students."

Shayla Hoang, senior, Business Administration and Psychology ('22-'23 cohort)

"The biggest insight I gained was from rotating through different units, which helped me identify the type of job I would enjoy. After a couple of weeks in each unit, I was able to determine whether I preferred working with people or working alone with data.

As a result of the internship experience, I have acquired valuable skills, such as managing tasks and advocating for myself to work on relevant projects related to the internship. One of the best aspects of the internship is the opportunity to rotate through three different units and work on diverse projects that are being implemented on campus, bringing about real changes. Upon completing my work in a unit and contributing to a project, I feel a sense of accomplishment knowing that my efforts may benefit others in the future."

Shiyan Guo, junior, Business Administration ('22-'23 cohort)

"I have enjoyed working for the university on projects that help to support the mission of higher education...This internship has also opened my eyes to potentially working at a university post-graduation, which is something I had not considered before!

I have solidified skills related to professional communication including scheduling meetings, participating in committees, preparing agendas and memos, and other skills such as inventory management, excel and data management, website building, and professional writing.

Ultimately, working alongside many exceptional people who care about your success within the program and are willing to help you grow and develop as a young professional has been an amazing experience! Also, taking tours of the computing center, power plant, and underground tunnels was another highlight of this internship!"

Sierra Schlegelmann, senior, Business Administration ('22-'23 cohort)

"The University of Oregon's VPFA Internship was a highlight in my years of undergraduate studies. Being part of a professional cohort of bright individuals that show commitment to positive impact has been revolutionary in shaping my skills and values.

Through this internship, I realized the numerous ways that University of Oregon ensures the provision of an exceptional education experience to its students from around the world.

Thanks to VPFA internship, I am more confident about transitioning to working in industry."

Taha Mirghorbani, junior, Business Administration ('21-'22 cohort)

“During the internship, I learned many things: how to approach a research project; the value of asking good questions; technical skills in working with Excel; an understanding of basic data analysis and its impact on making higher level decisions. Overall, the internship gave me a good understanding of how several units/departments collaborate to make the university function on a day-to-day basis. Moreover, the projects I did with the Talent Acquisition team during the winter term gave me a clear understanding of what I want to do in my future career.

For people considering applying, you should know that there is lots of learning potential though various projects and professional development sessions. I gained a lot of practical and transferrable skills by working with real world projects. To the next cohort, I would advise you to not be afraid of making some mistakes; it’s a part of the learning process. Always ask a lots of questions and make connections.”

Tang Tumbahangphe, senior, General Science (’20-’21 cohort)

"The internship has been really helpful in improving my professional skills and allowed for the development of soft office skills. Additionally, working with the cohort gives you a real experience of being in a team similar to a job where everyone meets once a week, while working on smaller projects on rotation all year long.

My final internship rotation with Enterprise Systems in Information Services has been a great learning opportunity. It is a direct finance-related project, allowing me to use my UO education first hand. The other two projects pushed me out of my comfort zone to try website design, Canvas administration, and managing work tickets. All of this experience led to me acquiring skillsets I wouldn't have gotten without the internship.

If you are thinking of applying: Just apply. You will be part of a great cohort of students, all working towards improving their skill sets and providing university departments with a much-needed student perspective. It is great on your resume since you are a VPFA intern; having the Office of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration on your resume is a standout compared to just about any other UO internship!"

Zain Ali Shah, senior, Business Administration ('22-'23 cohort)