09. From Classroom to Industry: Challenges, Growth, and Learnings in a Data Science Internship

The transition from academia to industry for statistics students can be daunting, especially for those with limited to no experience in the industry they are entering. This poster presentation highlights the challenges faced, transformative factors, key learnings, and recommendations drawn from the experiences of a Data Science Intern at GTI Energy during the summer of 2023. Challenges included adapting to the industry's pace, analyzing real-world data, and applying theoretical knowledge practically. Mentorship was crucial, guiding beyond technical aspects to understand workplace dynamics and customer needs. Internships mutually benefit both parties, bringing fresh perspectives to an organization while allowing students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world problems. We provide tips and advice for educators preparing students for industry internships, students considering these internships, and internship administrators and supervisors.

internship

mentorship

academia

industry

undergraduate