This summer, I interned as a Geotechnical intern at ANS Geo. ANS Geo primarily offers recommendations to clients regarding soil conditions for solar and wind farms. I was responsible for conducting various field tests to assess soil conditions. On the back-end side, I was also involved in compiling collected data and finalizing the geotechnical report, which included suggestions for changes.

During my internship, the collaboration with colleagues and the freedom I was granted to work on projects independently significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. It provided me with valuable insights into my thought process and helped me make more informed decisions. This experience underscored the importance of considering various aspects and perspectives before arriving at conclusions, which is a crucial skill in any field.

Moreover, the opportunity to work on projects with a high degree of autonomy also allowed me to explore my own interests and capabilities more deeply. Surprisingly, it led me to discover a newfound passion for travel and a strong affinity for spending time in nature. These realizations not only enriched my personal life but also added an exciting dimension to my career aspirations.

My role involved extensive travel and conducting a variety of soil tests, a responsibility coupled with critical management decisions. Over the course of my internship, I successfully completed approximately seven projects spanning different locations across the United States, with three of them being individual projects. These solo endeavors provided me with a unique opportunity to not only manage my logistical aspects but also to assume the role of a coordinator, liaising with multiple subcontractors, delivering daily updates to the Project Manager, and adapting to new environments. This multifaceted experience significantly honed my efficiency and decision-making abilities.

For instance, during my assignment in Oregon, I found myself tasked with coordinating the efforts of four distinct crews and ensuring precise site coverage. Initially, as the youngest member of the team, I harbored some reservations about making key decisions. However, my Project Manager’s support and encouragement propelled me to trust my instincts. Consequently, I decided to convene a daily morning meeting for all team members to discuss the day’s plans and address any concerns. This proactive approach not only streamlined operations but also fostered better communication among the team, exemplifying my growth and adaptability throughout the internship.

I’ve cultivated strong friendships and relationships within my workplace, and these bonds have been further enriched by our weekly lunch outings, enjoyable happy hours, and shared project travels. This camaraderie creates an incredibly enjoyable work environment and serves as a valuable stress reliever, especially during tight deadlines, as everyone is eager to collaborate and contribute to our tasks effectively. During a group project in Illinois, a colleague and I took the opportunity to visit a small town on one of our weekends. It turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable experience, just hanging out and immersing ourselves in the local culture. This leisurely time also deepened my appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

This internship has brought about a significant transformation in both my professional and personal life. On the professional front, it has instilled a sense of responsibility in me and honed my professional writing skills, both of which are invaluable as an engineer. I now find myself regularly reviewing and composing documents concerning improvements and changes, a task I undertake with increased competence. Moreover, on a personal level, this experience has enabled me to uncover facets of my own character. Additionally, the mentorship I received from Dr. Vatsal Shah has provided me with profound insights into life and personal growth.