Internships are largely random in terms of how meaningful the work is and how much opportunity you have to grow.
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Software Engineering Intern
June - August 2018 • Pasadena, CA
What I liked
I liked working at the JPL because of the atmosphere and people. The work was challenging but also very interesting.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Undergraduate Research Assistant
July - September 2018 • La Cañada Flintridge, CA
What I liked
Co-workers were very accessible.
What I wish was different
Ling drive.
Advice
Work hard.
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Intern
June - December 2018 • Pasadena, CA
What I liked
I love how much freedom and trust I'm given by JPL. I have a big voice in my team's decision making process.
What I wish was different
Advice
Ask questions and know that you're going to mess up. The people I know who have the best experience, both for their bosses and themselves, are the ones who don't try to be perfect.
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Payload Systems Engineering Intern
June - September 2018 • Pasadena, CA
What I liked
I enjoy being surrounded by people passionate about their work. JPL employees love to share their knowledge and welcome being asked questions. The culture is relaxed, welcoming, and encourages exploration and growth. Presentations, talks, and tours are always fun as you get to see cutting edge technologies in development and getting ready to explore the solar system!
What I wish was different
Advice
Make sure you network. At internships, you will be surrounded by some of the most knowledgeable people in your field-- get to know them! You will learn a lot from people who are passionate about their work and not only can this help inform what you want to pursue as a career but they may keep you in mind for future opportunities.
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Information Research Science Intern
June - August 2018 • Pasadena, CA
What I liked
There were always ways to network with other scientists and engineers. They held many events and lectures, which were really cool and interesting.
What I wish was different
It's more of a personal preference, but it would have been nice to have weekly meetings with AART (African American Resource Team). They only had 2 events during the 10 weeks I was there.
Advice
Talk to as many people as you can. Let them know what your career goals are and what you're interested in. It's NASA, Cal Tech, and JPL; Therefore you must network!!!
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Quality Engineering Intern
June - September 2018 • Pasadena, CA
What I liked
It's one of the most amazing places to intern. They have a huge intern program, you work on real and important projects, and the full-timers are super helpful to interns.
