First-year Intern Blog: Samy Pemmasani - Internship Overview

Hi! I'm Samy Pemmasani, and I am a rising sophomore at Carnegie Mellon University studying Electrical and Computer Engineering. This summer, I had the chance to intern at TechFides, a position I landed after reaching out to Jacques, the CEO, on LinkedIn. As a fellow CMU alum, Jacques shared his experiences about starting his own company, and he offered me an internship after recognizing my enthusiasm for learning and taking on new challenges. Beyond teaching me the real value of networking and being proactive in pursuing opportunities, this internship provided me with the opportunity to lead projects and explore innovative solutions, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally.

Embarking on my first undergraduate internship was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Like many young professionals, I wondered whether I would simply be assigned menial tasks or genuinely have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. Luckily, interning at TechFides has been an eye-opening experience that has not only honed my leadership skills but also taught me the importance of taking responsibility and owning projects.

Not Just a Name on the Roster?

The workplace culture at TechFides creates an environment where every voice is valued, and I was encouraged from the day I started to share my ideas and honest opinions. The chance to be recognized as an integral part of the team allowed me to quickly build confidence in my role and develop strong relationships with senior leaders at the company. Unlike larger organizations where interns might get lost in the crowd, smaller companies often require everyone to contribute in impactful ways. This means I’ve had the chance to step up, take ownership of tasks, and truly make a difference in the company's projects.

Hands-On Experience and Real Responsibilities

From day one, I was entrusted with tasks that went beyond basic intern duties. Instead of merely shadowing someone or performing repetitive tasks, I was given actual responsibilities that contributed to the company’s success. Whether it was developing a method utilizing AI to streamline business processes or performing an SEO analysis, I was given the autonomy to take the lead and make decisions.

This responsibility not only taught me practical skills but also instilled a sense of confidence in my abilities. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my contributions are valued and have a tangible impact on the company's operations. Being part of a smaller team has made me realize that every voice matters, and every action can drive positive change.

Empowerment to Innovate

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my internship has been the freedom to innovate. In a smaller company, there is often more room to explore new ideas and take creative risks. At TechFides, I’ve been encouraged to think outside the box, propose new solutions, and experiment with different approaches to problem-solving.

This empowerment to innovate has made my internship a truly positive experience. Not only have I been able to contribute fresh ideas, but I’ve also witnessed the positive changes they can bring. It's exhilarating to see how innovation drives the company's growth and success, and knowing that I played a part in that is immensely satisfying.

Building a Foundation for the Future

Interning at TechFides has been an invaluable opportunity for me to grow both personally and professionally. The hands-on experience, coupled with the chance to lead and innovate, has equipped me with skills that are essential for my future career. I have learned the importance of taking initiative, owning my responsibilities, and continuously striving for improvement.

My first-year internship at TechFides has been a journey of discovery and growth. By providing young professionals with the authority to make positive change, TechFides creates an environment where interns can thrive and develop into confident, capable leaders. If you're looking for an internship that offers real responsibility and room to innovate, TechFides is a great place to gain hands-on experience and build your technical and leadership skills.