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A Reflection on My Internship at Schreiber Foods by Cynthia Amoaba ‘26 

October 18, 2024
Cynthia Amoaba

Name: Cynthia Amoaba 
Class Year: 2026 
Majors: Economics & Computer Science 
Hometown: Tamale, Ghana 
 
Internship Organization: Schreiber Foods Inc. 
Internship Title: Global Technology Intern 
Location: Green Bay, WI 
 
What's happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing! 
My internship at Schreiber Foods was a transformative experience that provided me with invaluable insights into the world of technology and business. Through my involvement in the HR Benefits Chatbot and Source Migration projects, I gained practical experience, developed essential skills, and deepened my understanding of the intersection between technology and human resources. One of the most significant takeaways from my internship was the realization that the application of technology extends far beyond the realms of big tech companies and financial institutions. At Schreiber Foods, I witnessed firsthand how innovative technological solutions can be implemented in a variety of industries, including food production and manufacturing. The HR Benefits Chatbot, for example, is a testament to the power of technology to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the employee experience.

Moreover, my internship reinforced the importance of collaboration and open communication in driving project success. The Source Migration Project, a complex undertaking involving multiple stakeholders, required effective teamwork and a willingness to seek assistance from colleagues. By fostering a collaborative environment, we were able to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.
 
Another valuable lesson I learned was the power of networking. Building relationships with professionals from various departments allowed me to expand my professional network and learn from their experiences. These connections have proven invaluable in my career development and have provided me with opportunities for mentorship and guidance. 

Furthermore, my internship challenged me to balance my passions and goals. As a woman in technology, I was inspired by the Schreiber Women in IT initiative, which emphasized the importance of maintaining one's unique identity and interests while pursuing a career in a male-dominated field. This experience taught me that it is possible to envision a fulfilling future while remaining true to oneself. 

Finally, the MOVE framework (Make, Own, Visualize, Execute) proved invaluable in guiding my approach to projects and challenges. By following these steps, I was able to develop effective strategies, take ownership of my work, and achieve my objectives. 

In conclusion, my internship at Schreiber Foods was a truly enriching experience that has had a lasting impact on my professional development. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from talented individuals, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of technology. The insights and experiences I gained during my internship will continue to shape my career journey and inspire me to pursue innovative solutions that make a positive difference.    
    
Why did you apply for this internship? 
I applied for this internship at Schreiber Foods because I was intrigued by the company's innovative approach to leveraging technology to enhance business operations, particularly in the realm of finance. As a student with a strong interest in finance and a lifelong passion for cooking, I believed that this internship would offer a unique opportunity to combine my academic pursuits with my personal interests. Schreiber Foods' reputation for fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment further solidified my interest in this internship. I believed that this opportunity would allow me to build valuable relationships, expand my professional network, and gain a deeper understanding of the financial landscape within the food industry. 
 
What has been your favorite part of this internship? 
My Monthly Schreiber Women in IT meetings 
 
What is something you have learned from your internship that you didn't expect? 
I was impressed by the level of collaboration and teamwork that I observed within the organization. The internship provided me with opportunities to work closely with colleagues from various departments, and I was surprised by the willingness of everyone to share their knowledge and expertise. This collaborative culture fostered a positive and productive work environment and helped me to develop valuable interpersonal skills. 
 
Working remotely for the first time? What has that experience been like for you? 
My remote internship at Schreiber Foods was a valuable and rewarding experience that allowed me to gain practical skills and contribute to meaningful projects. I appreciated the flexibility and autonomy that remote work afforded me, as well as the ability to work from a location that suited my needs. 
   
While I thoroughly enjoyed my remote internship, I must acknowledge that there were certain aspects that would have been enhanced by in-person interactions. The opportunity to connect with colleagues face-to-face, engage in informal discussions, and build stronger personal relationships would have undoubtedly enriched my experience. Additionally, participating in in-person team-building activities and social events could have fostered a greater sense of camaraderie and belonging. 
 
Despite these limitations, I am grateful for the opportunity to have interned at Schreiber Foods. The remote work experience provided me with valuable skills, exposure to industry best practices, and the chance to contribute to projects that had a positive impact on the organization. 
 
Can you talk about the skills you are learning and why they are important to you? 
Throughout my internship at Schreiber Foods, I developed a strong foundation in essential skills for future success. I gained proficiency in using industry-standard tools like Google Cloud Platform, Python, SharePoint, and Jira, while also honing my project management, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication skills. This combination of technical and soft skills will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career. 
 
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced at your internship? 
One of my biggest challenges during my first internship at Schreiber Foods was adapting to the corporate environment and adjusting to the expectations of a professional workplace. Coming from an academic setting, I had to learn how to navigate office culture, communicate effectively with colleagues, and meet deadlines within a structured work environment.
 
Additionally, working remotely presented its own set of challenges. It was important to establish a productive work routine, manage my time effectively, and stay connected with my team despite the physical distance. While these challenges were initially daunting, I was able to overcome them by seeking guidance from mentors, actively seeking feedback, and developing effective time management strategies. 
 
Can you give us three adjectives and three nouns that describe your internship experience? 
   Informative, Challenging, ewarding 
   Growth, Collaboration, Achievement 
 
What is most rewarding about your internship? 
The most rewarding aspect of my internship at Schreiber Foods was the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects and see the tangible outcomes of my work. It was incredibly satisfying to know that my efforts were helping to drive positive change within the organization. Additionally, the experience of working in a collaborative and supportive environment was highly rewarding. I was able to build strong relationships with my colleagues, learn fr 
 
Was this internship what you expected it to be? 
While my internship at Schreiber Foods largely met my expectations, there were a few areas where my experiences differed from my initial perceptions. For example, I had anticipated a greater emphasis on technical skills and hands-on project work. While I did gain valuable technical experience, I also found that soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving were equally important. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of support and mentorship I received from the partners, which exceeded my initial expectations. Overall, the internship was a valuable learning experience that exceeded my expectations in many ways. 

Career & Civic Engagement  Economics  Computer Science