Sign in
QuantHub is thrilled to highlight the success of our recent internship program. We sat down with Isis Ramirez, System Analyst at BBT Connect, to discuss her experience as a mentor to our talented intern, Irene Kihara.
How has the internship experience been for you, Isis?
“The experience has been absolutely fantastic! Mentoring Irene has been a rewarding journey. She’s incredibly bright, eager to learn, and has a natural curiosity about our work. We’ve collaborated on AI research, Python coding, and complex client projects. Her ability to quickly grasp new concepts and her problem-solving skills are impressive. Irene is a true asset and represents the future of our industry.”
Can you elaborate on Irene’s skills and contributions?
“Irene is a standout intern. Her soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, are exceptional. She’s diligent, proactive, and always eager to take on new challenges. She’s made significant contributions to our ongoing projects, demonstrating a keen ability to analyze data and identify solutions. For example, her research on a coding issue I encountered was instrumental in resolving the problem. Irene is a quick learner and has a bright future ahead.”
What advice would you give to other mentors?
“Be open-minded and create a supportive environment. Students today are incredibly tech-savvy and eager to learn. Give them opportunities to explore their interests and provide guidance when needed. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street. You’ll learn as much from the intern as they do from you.”
Would you hire Irene after her internship?
“Absolutely! Irene is a standout candidate. She possesses the skills, attitude, and drive to succeed in our industry. I’m excited to see her career progress.”
What are your overall thoughts on the internship program?
“I strongly encourage other companies to invest in internship programs. Internships provide invaluable experience for students and benefit the company by fostering innovation and talent development. It’s an opportunity to shape the future of our industry.”
Irene’s Reflections
Irene’s internship at BBT Connect has been a transformative experience. She gained hands-on experience in various technical areas, including security camera setup, data visualization, and problem-solving. The internship solidified her interest in cybersecurity engineering and equipped her with valuable skills for her future career.
The Data Scholars program played a crucial role in connecting Irene with this opportunity and providing her with the support she needed to succeed.
QuantHub and Innovate Alabama are proud to support the development of young talent through internship programs.