In the FALL of 2020, I interned at the Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC). As an intern I completed a ton of training to learn about lab safety, how to use and test the radar system. Once I finished training, I ran a ton of tests on the radar system to verify the radar system meets the customer’s requirements.
Before I go into detail about my testing assignments, I would like to share how I found this site to work at for my practicum credit. I started out as summer intern during the summer of 2020 at NGC. While working at NGC over the summer I supported my team very well. I asked my supervisor if I could extend my internship throughout the fall semester. My site supervisor gave me permission. My practicum (internship) was an extension of my summer internship.
My situation is very unique because I already had someone to contact regarding finding a practicum site, but I do have some advice for future SGC Scholars who are trying to find a practicum site.
On site I completed a variety of tasks. Some are listed below.
The internship was a learning experience for me. I learned a lot about radar systems, proper testing procedures, how to troubleshoot more efficiently and effectively and how to write technical documents. Learning how to follow proper testing procedures and writing technical documents heavily relate to important aspects of science. Science requires you to be able to write technical reports that present your test plan and procedure and results. It also requires you to follow previous testing procedure or develop your own testing procurer that other people can follow. While at the internship, I had the opportunity to experience both, wiring a test procedure for others to follow and following a testing procedure.
Aside from the lessons I learned related to science and engineering, the people and program has a big impact on me. Working here as motivated me to continue my college career at UMD. I want to learn more and more technical knowledge from the Clark Engineering School so that I can return as an intern in the summer, apply the knowledge I learned and support the success of the program. Also, I enjoy working here. The people I currently work with are very kind and are always willing to answer my questions. I plan to return to the program I am working on now after I graduate from UMD as a full time employee.
Final piece of advice that I learned from personal experiences as a college student.
Do not stress over the little things, life is too short!
Acronym List