Julie Ann Bermudez assisted with international hiring processes while developing tools to streamline onboarding processes and team efficiency.
What skills did you practice or develop in this internship?
I got to practice communicating clearly across different teams and the importance of being organized, especially when juggling multiple tasks. I learned many things about how internal human resource processes work behind the scenes. I also gained confidence and became more comfortable with policies and learned how to break them down in a way that makes sense to not just me but to my coworkers as well. These skills – clear communication, problem-solving, and flexibility – are the ones I know I’ll use not just at work, but in real life situations.
How was the internship related to your Applied Humanities degree?
I believe internship helped me apply people-focused thinking in a professional setting. In my line of work and this internship, I have always considered how the policies or systems impact people’s lives, a value that aligns with the core values of Applied Humanities. I feel like courses in Applied Humanities require deep ethical reasoning, intercultural competence, and commitment to inclusive practices. These themes were consistently explored in my major and helped me shape how I approach my work. These are the important skills I will carry with me throughout my career.
How did your Applied Humanities major coursework help prepare you or give you unique insight for the internship experience?
The courses in Applied Humanities taught me to think freely and creatively, how to ask thoughtful questions, and how to challenge myself to be open minded and look at different perspectives. I used these skills often when interpreting guidelines or advising the departments I support on best practices, especially in my current line of work. My degree emphasis area in Business Administration helped me develop practical skills in strategic thinking and communication that I applied throughout my internship. It also gave me the confidence to speak up to offer solutions in a respectful way when needed.
What was the most satisfying part of your internship?
My internship really revolved around learning new processes and while also documenting the process for it. It felt really good to create tools for others or create guidelines that streamline processes for me and my coworkers. Part of my internship also involved helping people work through opportunities that could potentially help their future, which is an experience I truly found so fulfilling. This experience was a good reminder that even small things can make a huge impact. I may not see it now, but hopefully eventually I will get to see more of the impact of my efforts.
What did you find most challenging about your internship?
The most challenging thing about my internship is that each case I dealt with was unique. Navigating these situations where there isn’t a clear-cut answer or past examples to follow really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I learned to adapt and rely on reasoning, doing research on my own, applying my research, critical thinking and clear communication to move forward. Another unexpected lesson this taught me is that it is ok to ask for help, which initiates collaboration that can lead to a better outcome. It was definitely a valuable lesson in trusting my own research and being resourceful and using the connections I have to solve problems.
What is the impact of your internship experience?
This internship gave me a clear indication that I want to keep exploring things that I find fulfilling, not just in a workplace but as a person in general. My current line of work fell into my lap seemingly very unexpectedly, but it all makes sense to me now because helping people and making a difference in their lives is something I’ve always been passionate about, so human resources would make a good fit. I’m very grateful to have gained confidence in my ability to contribute to processes that are so meaningful to others through this internship. It also gave me understanding on the type of work culture, leadership, and responsibilities I thrive in. I believe the impact is lasting in both career direction and the skills I’ve gained.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
My internship experience gave me clarity that I want to continue working in a field that is people-centered thinking while also blending it with structured problem solving. I feel that I am more motivated to continue my role in HR where I know I can make a positive impact in people’s lives. My internship helped me narrow down my ideal role in the future, and areas I’d like to grow in. It also reminded me that meaningful work is really important and that nothing can compare to the rewards it brings us.