On the Path to Success: Alexandra Molina
On the Path to Success: Alexandra Molina Heading link
Alexandra Molina
Class of 2015
Major: Information and Decision Sciences
Semester Full-Time Co-Op
Company: Monsanto
Title of Position: R&D IT Co-Op
Why did you choose your current position?
I chose this position because I want to gain real-world experience in the IT field before I graduate. Monsanto offers an extensive number of options for IT co-ops that are engaged with important issues that will impact the organization as a whole. This opportunity will give me better chance in obtaining a full-time opportunity after college.
Describe Your New Role:
I am currently working for the Environmental Health and Safety Department at Monsanto. My role is to research and develop new technologies that Monsanto could benefit from by using more innovative and user-friendly tools. I am also involved in developing prototypes for applications that need to be redesigned to allow more capabilities for our ESH team.
I have also gotten the opportunity to work along with other 30 co-ops this semester and reached out to high schools about the importance of building your career and work experience during college.
How Did You Obtain Your Current Position?
I obtained my position by networking with a HACU recruiter at one of my student organization’s (LABS) meetings. Both of these organizations are great in helping students get internships and develop their skills. Being active and networking on campus are great steps towards obtaining an internship or full-time position.
What advice do you have for students currently searching for internships or full time positions?
The advice I have for students currently searching for internships or full-time positions is to gain experience early. This is the best way to avoid graduating and having difficulty in obtaining a full-time position, because of lack of experience. Most companies nowadays are seeking candidates with internships experience because they want to make sure that students have some experience in their field.
In my case I did my first internship at age 15, since then I have been exposed to several different areas of IT. I definitely recommend doing at least one internship before graduating from college.