Intern of the Week: Viyali Bhattacharjee

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:17:11 -0400
internoftheweek, internship, umbc

Name: Viyali Bhattacharjee

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Summer 2025

Major: Environmental Engineering

Current Class Level: Master's Student

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): TYLin

Location of the Organization (City, State): Alexandria, Virginia

Title of position: Intern Engineering Designer

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

My internship at TYLin as an Intern Engineering Designer in the Water division has been both technically enriching and personally rewarding. On a day-to-day basis, I have worked on condition assessment reports, supported stormwater management initiatives, and contributed to water and wastewater infrastructure projects. I also had the opportunity to work on the Community Rating System (CRS) project conducted by FEMA, which focuses on improving floodplain management practices and reducing flood insurance costs for residents. Along the way, I developed technical skills in ArcGIS Pro and ArcMap, assisted with data analysis and mapping, and gained exposure to the permit review process and water treatment plant design. The balance between meaningful technical tasks and a supportive, collaborative work environment has made this internship a transformative experience.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I came across the TYLin internship posting in December 2025 and decided to apply. After submitting my application, I received an email from HR around 2nd week of January for an initial screening interview, which I completed in January last week. In early March, I received a call while I was at school, asking if I was still available for the internship. I shared my updated resume, and shortly after, on the 2nd week of March, my future mentor reached out to schedule a team interview. I had that interview after 3 days, which turned out to be an engaging and welcoming conversation with the team. On the very next day, I received the exciting news that I had been selected. It was truly a memorable moment, as I felt both grateful and motivated to begin this new chapter.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

LinkedIn or other social media

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

Honestly, my internship at TYLin feels less like “just work” and more like joining a family that somehow knows how to throw a lunch party for every little occasion. From boat rides behind the office creek to surprise gifts that matched my hobbies (painting colors, books, even baking utensils!), I’ve realized this team celebrates people just as much as projects. And in between all the fun, I’ve gotten to dive deep into water and wastewater projects that genuinely shape sustainable communities. It’s the perfect mix of heart and hard hats!

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

I think my impact came from the “little big things.” Whether it was writing condition assessment reports, supporting stormwater management projects, or contributing to water treatment designs, I brought my dedication and fresh perspective as a student. But beyond the technical work, I also tried to spread positivity—asking questions, sharing ideas, and reminding my team that enthusiasm can be contagious (in a good way, not the viral way!).

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Treat your internship like a two-way street: you’re not just there to learn, but also to add value. Ask questions—even the “silly” ones (those usually spark the best discussions). Build relationships with mentors and colleagues, because the people you meet often teach you more than the manuals. And most importantly, bring your whole self—your skills, your curiosity, and even your hobbies—because you never know when your love for painting or baking might lead to an unexpected bond with your team.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

The best part of my position was being surrounded by mentors and colleagues who celebrated learning, collaboration, and even my hobbies. The Career Center helped me refine my resume to land this opportunity, and the PRAC course equipped me with the professional skills to grow and prepare for the industry.