LAS Student Spotlight – Shobhit

Shobhit

Major

Computer Science with a minor in Data Science

2024 Summer Internship

Part-time Student Software Engineer at John Deere

What advice do you have for fellow students applying for internships?

“Be on top of industry trends – find out when hiring picks up, what interview processes look like, and what skills are non-negotiables. For tech specifically, the intern hiring season starts early – from the end of July until mid-October.” Shobhit suggests using the summer before hiring season to sharpen your technical skills, update your resume, practice with mock interviews, and start networking with professionals in your field. He also emphasizes the importance of applying broadly, rather than focusing only on your top job choices. “Keep an open mind, as roles that seem like a bad fit might allow you to grow in ways you never thought of. When it comes to interviewing, focus on authenticity and engagement. Try to form a genuine connection with your interviewers- they are potential allies in your career journey, not obstacles to overcome.”

How did you prepare for ISU Career Fairs?

In Shobhit’s view, career fairs are the most crucial part of the job search process, as they offer a chance to stand out and be more than “just a piece of paper to hiring managers.” “Make it a priority to attend every career fair and talk to as many companies as possible. Collect contact information from your conversations and maintain these professional connections.” Shobhit recommends maximizing your career fair experience by researching the participating companies ahead of time and reviewing relevant job openings on their career page. “Understanding their requirements lets you articulate how your skills and experience align with their needs. When you talk to recruiters, learn more about these opportunities while demonstrating your genuine interest and qualifications for the role.”

How has the internship helped prepare you for your next career steps?

Shobhit believes that real-world experiences are the most impactful way to learn and develop new skills that enhance the foundation built in the classroom. “This position has been instrumental in shaping my growth as an emerging professional. Through this and previous internships, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of post-graduation career possibilities and had the privilege of working alongside exceptionally talented professionals. The combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills I’ve developed has thoroughly prepared me for a full-time role after graduation.”

Have you used any resources provided by LAS Career Services? How was this service helpful?

“I’ve used CyHire extensively for job applications. For those who might not know this, applying through a school website for a job is marked differently, and it puts you at an advantage as it makes you stand out from the crowd.”

What are your plans after graduation?

“My immediate goal after graduation is to establish myself in the software industry. However, I’m open-minded about the specific path—whether joining an established tech company, contributing to an innovative startup, or potentially launching my own venture. While my focus is on gaining valuable industry experience, I’m also considering furthering my education in the future through either a Master’s in Computer Science or an MBA to expand my skill set.”