Highways Summer Internship Review

My roles varied depending on the project, but I was tasked with coming up with a hatched design for a possible cycle lane layout, which used AutoCAD and looking through various standards. For other projects, I would sit in on meetings and send out emails depending on what information was required. I would draw and write up responses and keep track of the deliverables. I would often be given smaller tasks more regularly so my workload would depend on what deliverable we were working on.

I developed various skills, including communication in an office environment. During project work, I would constantly be learning how to use new software (AutoCAD, Structural Bridge Designer, Civil3D) and how construction projects functioned in the workplace. Before this internship, I had little experience working on highway projects. Having that insight into how roads are designed to certain standards has helped me deepen my Engineering knowledge. A lot of my role would consist of sending out emails and this helped me develop how I can present the necessary information more efficiently.

For the structural projects, I was given full responsibility for calculating the amount of required reinforcement for a slab section, I would fully complete the calculations and then send it off to be checked through. During this, I would be given constant support if I needed it and everyone was very helpful with any queries I had. For the remaining projects, it would be my responsibility to manage my time well and manage certain aspects of the project, then update my coworkers also working on the project.

The support I received was more than I could have anticipated. For every new project I started, I had full support throughout the entire process and this helped me feel less overwhelmed with all the new information I was taking in. The support I received went beyond the project work, as I asked for general future career advice. There was nothing to fault in terms of support and guidance on all aspects of the internship.

The company had an overall busy atmosphere, but would also be very welcoming. I was treated like a permanent employee, rather than a summer intern. I preferred to be in the office for my placement as I enjoyed speaking to current employees, and they were all very open and friendly with me. The company itself has an organized structure but the desk booking system allowed disciplines to sit wherever they wanted, which allowed for a more linked community feel.

It solidified my decision to pursue a career in civil/structural engineering and taught me a lot about working in an office environment. I thoroughly enjoyed the internship and would recommend it to anyone as it is such a good opportunity.

Yes

When you get the internship, make the most of all the support you will get, and make the most of this opportunity (Ask for extra work in other disciplines if you would like to experience them). I would just try to be yourself in all aspects of the application process and don't be afraid to discuss other projects/hobbies that aren't related to the role you're applying for.