What SEP Looks for in Interns: Smart, Culture Fit, Gets Things Done
Smart. Culture fit. Gets things done.
Each describes characteristics SEP explores with potential candidates when hiring—even interns. “When looking for interns, we look for the same qualities we do with a full-time hire,” explains Project Manager and Recruiting Team Member Kyle Pinches.
Beyond the Classroom
The interview process focuses on more than in-class performance. “We want to see that it’s more than just classwork that interests you—whether you’re building something on the web, working with Android and iOS, contributing to a club, or participating in an open source project,” Pinches describes.
These aren’t just qualities SEP looks for in software engineering interns, but business interns as well. “I need you to be smart enough to learn on the fly, have ambition, challenge yourself, and take risks,” explains Director of Client Relations Mike Mumau. “Our culture embraces learning.”
Real Projects, Real Experience
Human Resources Manager Laura Terry describes what makes SEP internships unique: “Our internships offer hands-on experience working on real project teams with our engineers doing real work. We strive to make sure our interns get to see what it’s truly like to be a professional in our industry, so we work to put them on client projects. And, of course, we like to show how we operate as a company.”
Part of the learning experience is figuring out what needs to be done and working with the project team to finish tasks. “It’s not all about doing what your boss tells you to do. I want our internship to be more than that,” Mumau emphasizes.
Discovering Your Path
Creating an environment that allows interns to learn has led many to discover what they enjoy most about software engineering. “There’s only so much you can see in class,” Pinches notes. “I’ve learned from interns that it helps them find what aspects of software engineering interest them most.”
All three agree that SEP internships not only prepare students for careers after graduation but also allow them to specifically discover what aspects of software engineering and business processes excite them. Working across a variety of industries, a SEP internship is both intensive and rewarding.
Apply Now
SEP is interested in learning more about you. We are currently accepting applications for summer software engineering and business internship positions. SEP offers a flexible schedule, exposure to meaningful projects, and the chance to engage in early professional development alongside full-time employees.
