Heather McCormic, '13 - National Security Institute
Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education
Heather McCormic, '13 is a junior Government major and studies Arabic. During summer 2011, Heather participated in the National Security Institute and completed an internship with Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).
At ORISE Heather was the only intern, which created a great opportunity for her to work closely with the professional staff. Given substantial work even on her first day, Heather spent much of her time working on executive summaries, updating company databases, and writing company documents. Heather's work so impressed her boss that he offered her a part-time position that she is continuing on campus this fall.
To those seeking internships, Heather advises: “Be a drop cookie - not a cookie cutter cutout. “ By this Heather means be an individual:
1) Do not choose an internship because it relates most closely to your major; pick something you are genuinely interested in and learn everything you can about the company/organization.
2) Be a go-getter! Pursue opportunities to contribute to the company's overall goals.