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Hello, my name is Mang Hnin Lian. I am a rising junior at Susan Moore High School. This summer, I had the privilege of embarking on an enriching internship journey at EBSCO Information Services as part of the Alabama Data Scholars summer internship program, a new initiative led by QuantHub with support from Innovate Alabama. The pivotal experience deepened my understanding of data science in a practical, real-world context.
From the outset, my summer internship at EBSCO offered an immersive learning environment where theory seamlessly translated into practice. Engaged in hands-on projects, I tackled diverse challenges under the guidance of seasoned professionals. This practical exposure not only sharpened my technical skills but also illuminated the complexities and nuances of data-driven decision-making.
During my internship at EBSCO, I was tasked with enhancing the company’s credentialing system. I successfully created over 32 new credentials and added more than 1,500 skills to bolster the database. Additionally, I developed over 200 skeleton credentials, laying the groundwork for future expansions for colleges. These contributions not only strengthened EBSCO’s credentialing framework but also deepened my understanding of database management and skill integration.
Beyond technical expertise, my internship experience was enriched by EBSCO’s collaborative culture and cohesive team dynamics. I experienced firsthand the synergy of diverse perspectives converging to solve complex challenges. Whether brainstorming solutions or presenting findings, the camaraderie and mutual support among colleagues fostered a stimulating and inclusive work environment—a testament to EBSCO’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering professional growth.
During my internship, I found a unique way to make the experience personal by leveraging my passion for programming. Inspired by my love for coding, I devised a system to gamify the process of collecting “neurons” within the tasks assigned through QuantHub. By using python, I managed to automate and reiterate tasks, essentially “cheating” the system in a constructive way. This approach not only allowed me to excel in completing tasks but also fueled my enthusiasm for tackling challenges creatively. Integrating programming into my tasks made the internship more engaging and fulfilling, aligning my personal interests with professional growth.
Reflecting on my internship and experience in the Data Scholars program, I am profoundly grateful for the myriad opportunities that have shaped my personal and professional growth. Beyond acquiring technical proficiency, I developed essential soft skills—including communication, critical thinking, and adaptability—that are indispensable in today’s competitive landscape.
Moreover, the experience reaffirmed my passion for leveraging data science to drive innovation and create meaningful impact—an aspiration I am eager to pursue as I embark on the next chapter of my career.
