Isabella Simon
Major: Communication
Field HR Intern, Dollar General
How did you learn about this internship opportunity?
I learned about my internship through the website “Handshake”. The College of Liberal Arts at Purdue did a wonderful job of informing students about this helpful resource.
How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals? How did being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue apply to your internship?
This internship has significantly enhanced my communication, critical thinking, and project management skills. I’ve had the chance to work on real-world projects that align closely with my career interests. It confirmed my passion for Human Resources and gave me clarity on the type of work environment and role I’d like to pursue after graduation.
How did being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue apply to your internship?
Being a Liberal Arts student equipped me with strong writing, analytical, and interpersonal skills, all of which were essential in my internship. The ability to think critically and approach problems from different perspectives helped me contribute meaningfully to team projects and client interactions.
What is a piece of advice you would give someone in your major looking for an internship?
Start early, stay proactive, and use the resources available through the College of Liberal Arts. Don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni, attend workshops, and tailor your resume and cover letters for each opportunity. Also, be open to internships in unexpected fields/ in a new city —you might discover a new passion & find a place you love!
What key responsibilities or tasks have you taken on during your internship?
My primary responsibilities include processing all promotions, terminations, demotions & any field changes for regionals managers & district managers within the field. I also assist with implementing invoices into coupa as well as supporting the senior project manager as needed to execute business priorities and special projects.
In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participation in our job-ready program specifically aided your professional development?
The CLA provided career coaching, resume workshops, and mock interviews that made a huge difference in my preparation. Through the Job-Ready Internship Fund, I was also able to accept an opportunity that I might not have been able to take otherwise due to financial barriers. The Job-Ready program not only helped financially, but also emphasized the importance of translating Liberal Arts skills into real-world impact. As a CLA student, I’ve had access to a network of mentors, professional development events, and guidance that prepared me for both my internship and long-term career.
Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in this program that you find particularly noteworthy?
A standout moment was presenting my final project to senior leadership at the company. It was rewarding to see my work valued and to gain experience in communicating complex ideas to a professional audience. That level of exposure and trust wouldn't have been possible without the foundation I gained from my Liberal Arts education at Purdue.