Spotlight Q&A: Jehan Awad's Internship with WBR

What motivated you to begin your career in HR and talent acquisition? 

I started off my educational career in general psychology, where I became passionate about the study of people and how it related to business. I became more fascinated with the people operations side of what motivates people, what "makes them tick", etc. This led me to talent acquisition. The more I got into it, the more I started to enjoy how it seemed like a puzzle; placing people in positions where they would excel, based on their skills and abilities. 

What were your expectations for this internship, and how were they met or surpassed? 

I expected to audit phone screens and aid in the candidate selection process. I, however, was given the responsibility to do so much more than that. I contributed to the full cycle onboarding and orientation process. I did a salary benchmark project, which allowed me to understand how our organization can attract and retain the right talent. I also studied different Applicant Tracking Systems, which I know will be useful to any future HR position. In short, my expectations were exceeded. 

What was your favorite part(s) or experiences of the internship? 

I very much enjoyed auditing and evaluating the phone interviews. It gave me great insight into the interview process. I learned how to properly asses a candidate on their professional and verbal etiquette, and overall know if the applicant was qualified for the position. 

How were you able to apply your academic studies in Industrial and Organizational (IO) to this internship? 

The graduate course, "Personnel Selection & Assessment," informed me about the EEOC and the ADA, which prepared me for some of the legal aspects of talent acquisition. The leadership and organizational classes helped me understand that while this it still a corporate environment, it is important to consider the feelings and lifestyles of our workforce. Doing so can help an organization make for a better work environment.  

Is this an internship program that you would recommend to others, and why? 

I would certainly recommend this internship to others. It taught me a great deal about talent acquisition and let me dip my toes into other aspects of HR. I feel that I am much more prepared to enter the workforce. I felt that my input was valued and truly heard at WBR. 

What advice would you give to a future intern? 

It’s important to be open to other approaches and strategies, no matter what field you are entering. Being an intern is an experience first and foremost. Be open to learning and be open to making "mistakes". Take every hiccup "on the chin", and be patient with yourself. 

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