Students Success Stories :
Bryan Henderson
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Employer: Hewlett-Packard
Location: Vancouver, WA
Why did you choose to participate in a co-op/internship? What are the benefits of working in an engineering co-op/internship position?When I was a freshman, I chose HP because I have always loved HP products. They're a huge company, so I would have lots of flexibility and honestly, I thought it would be cool to say I work for Hewlett-Packard.
The benefits of working at HP are great. You are in the middle of a high pace business and given the responsibilities, respect and support that full time employees have. Supplemented by great HP discounts on products software, etc., the only thing that tops that is being a part of a business with a great laid back culture and productive work environment.
How has this experience enhanced your academic experience and/or shaped your career goals?After interning twice with HP, I have a lot more direction on what I am an interested in as far as academic studies. Working with their unique printing systems, materials and tools helped me see that I really have a love for system designs and will shape my courses to explore more of that area.
Describe any exciting/challenging projects you've worked on at your co-op/internship.
My projects were mainly in the areas of research and development, product testing and improving existing systems. I was trained to use their computer aided design tool (one space), then set out to create test apparatuses. The tests I designed yielded vital information needed to continue with the production phases of a new prototype printer.
Was there anything unique about your experience that you can share with us?
The most unique thing about my internship was the location. Vancouver, WA, is a great part of the country that most on the east coast know nothing about. The outdoors experience is amazing and beautiful as it is home to Mount St. Helens and other various lakes, mountains, beaches, etc.
Less than 15 minutes from Portland, OR, and 2 hours from Seattle, WA, makes Vancouver a great base for having some fun away from home.
The interns were also great!! We had so much fun playing basketball, volleyball during lunch. Going on paintball trips, go-karts, pool parties and so much more group fun was a highlight for me. HP hires on average 40 interns every summer ranging from high school students to students pursuing graduate degrees. This makes it extremely easy for an east coast person like me to feel at home all the way across the country.
If your co-op/internship was outside the DC metro area, how did you find housing?
HP supplies all relocating interns with a salary bonus and relocation stipend totaling around $2,500 depending on your salary. Unfortunately you are on your own to find a place to live. Interns usually start emailing each other before the summer to group together. After recent complaints I believe HP should be playing a more active role in securing housing for interns starting Summer 08.
Through working with my manager, I ended up staying with an HP employee.
Was there anything unique about your experience that you can share with us?
My best advice would be to be aggressive. Showing recruiters that you're "hungry" is great sign to them that you will be a motivated hungry employee. Put your resume on every company site, go to every career fair, and make sure your resume is perfect. To help do that, get involved in campus organizations and be active.
Once you get your foot in the door, continue a great relationship with your hiring manager, mentor and even the HR rep at early stages. The company is recruiting more than just a person who can get the job down. They want someone who will add to their unique business culture. Shape yourself to be that person.
Was there anything unique about your experience that you can share with us?
I got my first internship my freshman year, by being a people person, being active on campus and passionate about the things I would like to do. The only thing I wish I would have known is possibly how to make the most of my internship before getting in. That summer will go fast; if you’re not focused on what you need to get out of that experience, then you will have wasted your time.
