Intern of the Week: Kavya Mowa

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:33:12 -0500
business-operations-and-digital-marketing-intern, information-systems, intern, intern-of-the-week, internship, iotw

Name: Kavya Mowa

Pronouns: she/her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2023

Major: Information Systems (Specialization in Data Science & UI/UX Design)

Current Class Level: Master's Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): The Equity Brain Trust

Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland

Title of position: Business Operations and Digital Marketing Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship at The Equity Brain Trust, I was deeply immersed in a dynamic environment where I played a pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurs and driving strategic insights. My daily responsibilities were multifaceted and involved conducting extensive business and market research to provide valuable guidance to 10 entrepreneurs. This included delving into various industries, analyzing market trends, and identifying growth opportunities.

One significant aspect of my role was overseeing the backend data for the Equiscore BI app, where I demonstrated proficiency in API and database testing, along with utilizing SQL queries. This allowed me to ensure the smooth functioning of the app and maintain data integrity.

Collaboration was key to our success, and I actively engaged with my team using tools like Jira for efficient project management. Together, we conceptualized innovative business strategies and developed Ideal Customer Profiles (ICP) and buyer personas to better understand and cater to diverse customer segments.

Creativity and analytical skills were also put to the test as I utilized Canva for design tasks and harnessed Tableau for in-depth data analysis. From crafting compelling presentation decks for business conferences to generating comprehensive reports, I had the opportunity to showcase my abilities in various domains.

Furthermore, I actively contributed to enhancing sales strategies by conducting thorough analyses and implementing actionable insights. This hands-on experience not only enriched my understanding of business dynamics but also honed my skills in problem-solving and strategic thinking on a day-to-day basis.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
The journey to securing my position at The Equity Brain Trust started when I stumbled upon the opportunity listed on the UMBC Career Center platform, specifically through the MTIP Program. Intrigued by the description, I wasted no time in submitting my application in September, eager to delve into the world of strategic business insights.

The application process unfolded across three rigorous rounds, each presenting its own unique challenges. It commenced with a stimulating phone interview where I had the chance to articulate my passion for business exploration and showcase my capabilities. Following this initial interaction, I advanced to the subsequent rounds, which comprised a virtual interview and a comprehensive writing task.

Navigating through each stage of the process allowed me to not only demonstrate my qualifications and enthusiasm for the role but also provided invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. It was a journey filled with anticipation, dedication, and ultimately, immense satisfaction upon securing the internship opportunity with The Equity Brain Trust.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?
UMBC Career Center, Handshake, MTIP

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I've found most fulfilling about my position and the organization is the chance to collaborate closely with entrepreneurs and directly interact with key figures such as the CEO, CTO, Research Director, and HR. Their mentorship and guidance not only clarified any doubts or queries I had but also provided invaluable training opportunities. This hands-on experience allowed me to apply and sharpen my skills in data analysis and UI/UX design, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Moreover, the friendly and supportive atmosphere within the team fostered a sense of camaraderie and made every day at work enjoyable. This positive environment greatly contributed to my overall satisfaction and made the learning journey even more rewarding. Overall, my experience at the organization has been immensely beneficial for my professional growth.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I firmly believe that my contributions have left a lasting impact on the Equity Brain Trust's journey towards success. Beyond fulfilling my assigned tasks, I actively engaged in fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment within the organization. Our weekly Wednesday meetings, characterized by casual conversations and a fun atmosphere, provided invaluable insights into the significance of equity in the workspace. Interacting with a diverse array of entrepreneurs on a daily basis was both a privilege and a learning experience, allowing me to broaden my understanding of various industries and business dynamics.

Moreover, my involvement in database tasks, business strategy development, and research on economic development agencies has equipped me with a versatile skill set that extends beyond traditional boundaries. Delving into the realm of economic development agencies and nonprofit organizations has deepened my appreciation for the pivotal role they play in driving positive societal change. Through my work, I've not only contributed to the growth and success of the Equity Brain Trust but have also honed my abilities to navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful impact in the broader community.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
To fellow students embarking on the journey of seeking an internship or similar experience, my advice would be to take a proactive approach in exploring opportunities that resonate with your interests and aspirations. Make full use of university career centers and networking events to uncover potential openings and forge connections with professionals in your desired field.

When applying for positions, invest time in customizing your resume and cover letter to highlight not only your skills but also your genuine passion for the role. During interviews, demonstrate your eagerness to learn and contribute to the organization by showcasing your unique strengths and experiences.

Additionally, don't underestimate the power of networking and informational interviews. Reaching out to professionals in your field can provide invaluable insights and may even lead to unexpected opportunities.

Lastly, maintain resilience in the face of challenges, stay proactive in your search, and approach each experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow. Every opportunity, regardless of the outcome, is a stepping stone towards your professional development.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.
Reflecting on my experience at The Equity Brain Trust, I found the support and guidance from the UMBC Career Center to be invaluable. Through one-on-one meetings, they provided assistance throughout the internship, helping me navigate challenges and queries that arose. This personalized guidance significantly enhanced my learning experience and contributed to my overall success in the internship.

Earning internship credit through the Career Center's program was a pivotal aspect of my journey. It not only provided recognition for my efforts but also validated the valuable experience I gained during my time at The Equity Brain Trust. This recognition boosted my confidence and motivated me to further excel in my role.

Working closely with the Career Center not only helped me gain valuable experience but also provided me with a sense of direction and purpose in my career path. Their support and resources were instrumental in helping me navigate the internship landscape and make the most of my opportunity at The Equity Brain Trust.

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