Students

Gaining Experience on Both Sides of the Hudson

Posted
August 9, 2023
Lubin student Shruti Dhapodkar '23 standing in front of the Lubin School of Business sign on the 4th Floor of One Pace Plaza on the New York City Campus

Shruti Dhapodkar

Marketing Data Manager, Case Western Reserve University

Class of 2023
MBA in Marketing Analytics

Internship: Product Marketing & Business Development Intern, NJ Transit

Pronouns: She/Her

Lubin student Shruti Dhapodkar '23

Shruti Dhapodkar is conquering more than just her MBA in Marketing Analytics at the Lubin School of Business. As a graduate assistant within Lubin's Office of Communications and External Relations, Shruti helped coordinate campus events, edited newsletters, and assisted in social media strategy—and it's that real-world experience that helped her score her summer internship with NJ Transit and that led to her internship offer being extended into her final semester at Lubin.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

Lubin resources, like Career Services, played a vital role in supporting my internship search. They provided valuable assistance through networking events, resume preparation, and mock interviews. These events helped me connect with industry professionals, expand my network, and gain insight into different career paths. With their help, I refined my resume to effectively showcase my skills and experiences. Through mock interviews, I received constructive feedback, improving my interview skills and boosting my confidence. The comprehensive support from Lubin greatly contributed to my career development and success.

What attracted you to this internship?

Initially, I was searching specifically for marketing analytical roles, but I did not find a suitable match. Then, this opportunity with NJ Transit presented itself, and I decided to pursue it. After going through the interview process and being selected, I realized that product marketing is something I am genuinely interested in. It incorporates the analytical aspect of analyzing product performance.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at NJ Transit?

My work schedule is a combination of in-office and remote activities. On days when I'm physically present in the office, my mornings typically revolve around attending meetings. Following that, I receive task assignments from different individuals, such as the senior director, product marketing team, marketing analyst, or chief marketing officer. Throughout the day, I dedicate myself to completing these tasks.

During lunchtime, I meet up with my intern friends on the 10th floor, which offers breathtaking views of Newark. I then resume my work and assist with various day-to-day office responsibilities. Additionally, I have the privilege of attending events and volunteering as an NJ Transit ambassador. This role allows me to visit different facilities and stations, representing and promoting NJ Transit.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

The highlight of my experience so far has been working in a large organization and attending intern events, which helped me meet new people and expand my network. NJ Transit truly values its interns, as shown by the vice president's behavior. Whenever we cross paths, he remembers my name and warmly greets me, reflecting the genuine care and attention given to us interns. Being a part of the marketing department also comes with the perk of receiving numerous promotional goodies, all branded with NJ Transit logos, which is a plus.

You previously served as a graduate assistant within the Lubin School of Business. How did that experience prepare you for your current role at NJ Transit? How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

Ever since I started my MBA program, working as a graduate assistant has been a game-changer for me. It gave me real-world experience working in an actual American corporate setting, which was super valuable. I learned a ton from my time working closely with the director of communications. That experience led me to my position at NJ Transit. When I was in the interview, everything I discussed was straight from my experience as a GA. It really helped me showcase my skills and knowledge in a practical way.

This experience at NJ Transit is going to have a big impact on my next semester at Lubin. I know it's going to make my next semester at Lubin more exciting and meaningful as I'll be able to bring real-world experiences and perspectives into my coursework. It's all about bridging that gap between theory and practice.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

This experience at NJ Transit is going to have a big impact on my next semester at Lubin. It's not just about sitting in classrooms and studying theories anymore! I'll be diving into the real world and getting hands-on with marketing and business development strategies. It's like taking what I have learned in class and applying it to actual situations. I know it's going to make my next semester at Lubin more exciting and meaningful as I'll be able to bring real-world experiences and perspectives into my coursework. It's all about bridging that gap between theory and practice.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

My advice is to focus on networking. Connect with professionals, attend career events, and build relationships. Tailor your resume. Persistence and a strong network will increase your chances of securing a valuable internship experience.

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