Discovering the CSSI Intern Experience: An Interview with Nick Verstak

As the summer wraps up and we reflect on the growth and achievements of our team, it’s the perfect time to spotlight an exciting new aspect of our company: our internship program. Interns bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless enthusiasm to our workplace, making their experiences invaluable not just for them but for us as well.

To get an insider’s view of what it’s like to be part of our team, we sat down with Nicholas Verstak , who has been interning with us this Spring/Summer. From tackling exciting projects to navigating the intricacies of our company culture, Nick has had a front-row seat to the transformative journey happening at CSSI!

Can you share a bit about yourself and your background in technology? What sparked your interest in this field?

I’m currently entering my second year of studying Business Analytics at Loyola Marymount University. Growing up in a tech-savvy household, I was surrounded by technology from an early age—my mom holds a PhD in Computer Science, and my dad leads AI initiatives at Google while also serving as the head of Google Scholar. While the technical aspects of technology have always been a part of my life, I've found myself more drawn to the business side of things. This blend of influences has sparked my interest in exploring how data and technology can drive business decisions and innovation.

During your internship, what were some of the key projects or tasks you were involved in? How did these projects contribute to your learning and growth?

During my internship, I worked on several key projects, including assisting with the email migration and DocuSign migration, and creating a SharePoint site for the IT department. These experiences allowed me to develop my skills in using various tools, such as Excel, SharePoint, Teams, Monday.com, and PowerBI. Through these projects, I gained valuable hands-on experience in managing and organizing information, streamlining workflows, and collaborating with teams. These experiences not only enhanced my technical skills but also provided insights into the practical applications of business analytics in a real-world setting.

Which project or task did you find most challenging, and how did you overcome it?

The most challenging project I encountered was the DocuSign migration. The project initially appeared to be straightforward, but it quickly became complex due to the need to coordinate with numerous individuals, each with their own timelines. What we initially anticipated to be a quick two-week project stretched out over several months. To manage this complexity, my mentors, Debbie Krupitzer and Justin Chavarria , guided me in creating a Gantt chart on Monday.com. This tool helped me streamline the workflow, track progress, and keep everyone aligned, making the process more efficient.

As someone who has worked closely with our systems, what technological advancements do you think our company should focus on in the next 5 years?

AI is an exciting area that CSSI is already exploring, particularly in the realm of lead generation. Having participated in several meetings about AI, I've seen firsthand the potential it holds. While it's still a relatively new technology and its full capabilities are yet to be realized, this uncertainty also brings a sense of excitement and opportunity. Focusing on AI over the next five years could not only enhance our current systems but also open up new avenues for innovation and efficiency. By investing in AI, we can stay ahead of the curve and unlock new possibilities for growth and improvement.

Looking back at your internship, what skills or knowledge do you feel you've gained that will be most valuable as you continue your career in IT?

Reflecting on my internship, I've gained valuable skills that will be essential as I continue my career in IT. In addition to becoming proficient with tools in the Microsoft Office365 suite, I learned the importance of effective communication in the corporate environment. Whether it was teaching 50 representatives how to use Microsoft Teams or mastering email etiquette, I realized that clear and concise communication is crucial for progress and collaboration. These experiences have equipped me with both the technical skills and the soft skills needed to navigate and succeed in the business world.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to future interns or new hires joining the IT space?

My advice to future interns or new hires in the IT space is to prioritize communication. It's better to over-communicate, even if it means sending frequent emails or meeting invites, than to risk leaving things unclear or undone. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps prevent misunderstandings. Additionally, view this internship as a valuable opportunity to develop your skills. Be proactive in seeking out learning experiences, ask questions, and take advantage of the resources and mentors available to you. This is your chance to build a strong foundation for your future career.

Internships are more than just a stepping stone; they’re an opportunity for growth, learning, and mutual benefit. We’re incredibly proud of the contributions Nick has made and the way he has embraced his role within our team. His reflections not only highlight the value of our internship program but also inspire us to continue fostering an environment where fresh ideas and talent can thrive.