Over this past summer, I used funding from STEP to facilitate a technology development internship program with Accenture. Over the course of 10 weeks, I served as a test engineer for a globally leading biopharmaceutical company.
My understanding of both myself and the professional world underwent a profound transformation throughout the duration of my STEP-funded internship with Accenture. Initially, I was unsure about delving into the consulting industry because I didn’t think it aligned with my career aspirations. I have always seen myself working at a big tech company, not a company that has a big emphasis on regular business operations. Although, Accenture is a tech consulting company, so I believe it sits somewhere in the middle, which made the adjustment easier. This experience unveiled a hidden passion for problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation that not only changed my assumptions about the consulting field but also altered my perception of my own capabilities. This transformation highlighted that personal growth transcends comfort zones and that true development occurs when we challenge preconceived notions.
Several pivotal events, interactions, and relationships during my internship with Accenture catalyzed this transformative journey. Firstly, the camaraderie among fellow interns fostered an environment of shared learning and mutual support. Collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds brought forth fresh perspectives, enabling us to tackle challenges creatively and collaboratively. Some of my favorite moments of the internship were when I would go out with a group of interns after work. Many of us formed close bonds and still communicate with each other.
Engaging with project managers and internship coordinators was equally impactful; their mentorship provided insights into the consulting industry’s intricacies, offering a broader view of the possibilities within it. Accenture set up a large pool of resources for every intern so we would always feel like we had the support we needed. I had access to two managers that guided me through my project work and a fulltime employee that also worked under my two managers who was my main point of contact while I did my project work. Additionally, we were assigned pod groups where a small group of interns and a mentor would get together and discuss how the summer is going. All of these combinations of support made me appreciate the environment at this consulting firm.
Finally, working as a test engineer for a globally leading biopharmaceutical company exposed me to the real-world implications of technology in healthcare. The responsibilities and challenges I faced underscored the importance of precision, adaptability, and effective communication. The projects I undertook demanded close cooperation with my teammates, which deepened my understanding of client needs and refined my problem-solving skills. These interactions and experiences collectively redefined my outlook on the consulting industry, revealing its potential to drive positive change. I also learned that when Accenture says they do “everything”, they literally mean they work in pretty much every industry across all of their clients. This means I do not have to work in the biopharmaceutical industry in the future if I do not want to. In fact, Accenture even works with big tech companies like Google and Amazon, so I can still achieve my dream of working with a big tech company while at the consulting firm Accenture.
This transformation holds immense significance in my life, resonating across my academic, personal, and professional aspirations. Academically, it illuminated the practical applications of theoretical knowledge, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world execution. Personally, this transformation bolstered my self-confidence, empowering me to embrace unfamiliar challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm. Professionally, the experience redefined my career path, exposing me to the dynamic and impactful nature of consulting. This change not only aligns with my future plans but also equips me with a versatile skill set that transcends industries.
