Eden Munemo from Middlesborough College Sixth Form completed her two-week paid internship at heating and air conditioner provider Aircon Group. Find out how this experience has motivated her to pursue a career in engineering.
Before starting her internship, Eden was quiet and wouldn’t seek opportunities to speak to new people.
“I’ve always been more of an introvert. Before my internship I was quite shy and I wouldn’t speak unless spoken to.”
But after spending two weeks working at Aircon Group, she feels completely different.
“I’m now so much more comfortable in unfamiliar situations and am better at starting conversations with others, professionally and casually. I’m stepping out of my comfort zone more often because I now know what it’s like to do something daunting and feel way better afterwards.”
A truly diverse experience
Eden had the chance to work in two different areas of the business, giving her a well-rounded perspective of what working life at Aircon looks like, from both an engineering and non-technical point of view.
“During my internship I was very fortunate to work in two different roles within the company. This took my experience to another level, and I learnt so much from so many people, including the value of communication and collaboration. With the engineers, I learnt how to adapt to different scenarios, use complex equipment, and carry out tests. With the sales and marketing team, I analysed data, created spreadsheets, wrote informational blogs, and learnt a lot about the company.”
Eden also picked up the importance of time management and how it contributes to overall performance at work.
“I learnt that in the world of work, every second counts. Being punctual and in the right place at the right time made my days at work much easier. It also gives a good impression and is respectful of my colleagues’ time.”
Real insights into real work
During her internship, Eden got a snapshot into what her job could look like in the future, solidifying her interest in engineering.
“I’d say that my internship has strengthened my interest in engineering, but also solidified my immediate future plans of studying physics at university. I was fortunate enough to work with experienced engineers and experience their regular routine – it really helped me figure out whether it was something I wanted to do as a career.”
My internship has helped me develop as a person in a professional sense, but also in my personal life.
Her internship exposed Eden to the day-to-day activities she can expect working as an engineer, and also see the impact of her work in real time.
“I loved going out with the engineers and working in new locations each day, adapting to each scenario and constantly learning new skills. There was never a point where I felt as though I wasn’t making a difference to the company, and that was always a rewarding feeling. It gave me motivation as I had a reason to wake up every morning and make a difference to not only myself, but a great company I enjoyed working with.”
Reflecting on her experience of the Career Ready programme overall, Eden now feels ready to build a successful future.
“The months of support that prepared me for this internship have also prepared me for what lies ahead of me in life – I’ve had countless opportunities for self-growth and personal development with Career Ready.”
