Internship Journal:
Throughout this course I tracked six, fifty hours, working periods. I took what I did in each fifty-hour period and made a “journal” out of what exactly I did. The reflections include what I did, how I felt, what was learned, and a few other comments about the experience. I have compiled these six working periods here:
Internship Evaluation:
After the journaling was done, I did a full-blown analysis on my entire time at Indel Power Group as an Intern. I described many different aspects and covered many different areas, while also answering many of the questions people may have about my particular internship.
Applying Course Knowledge
In my coursework, I delved into theoretical concepts surrounding networking, cybersecurity, and IT management. These theories provided me with a foundational understanding of how systems operate and how security measures are implemented. Learning about the OSI model, network protocols like DNS and DHCP, and security principles such as access control and encryption prepared me for understanding the practical aspects of my internship. In practice, I applied these theoretical concepts by troubleshooting technical hardware and software issues, managing firewall logs to ensure network security, and setting up servers and network protocols like DHCP and DNS. For example, my knowledge of network protocols helped me understand why certain protocols are essential for maintaining the company’s network flow and security.
Skill Development
During my internship, I had the opportunity to develop various skills that are invaluable in the field. I enhanced my technical troubleshooting abilities by addressing hardware and software issues both in person and remotely. Additionally, I honed my customer service skills by handling user requests and technical issues while ensuring excellent customer satisfaction. Moreover, I gained experience in documentation by creating detailed records of processes and procedures, keeping everyone informed and organized. In terms of network management, I learned how to set up servers, configure network protocols, and manage firewall logs effectively. Furthermore, I improved my project management skills by handling multiple initiatives simultaneously, such as setting up SCCM servers and implementing security measures.
Throughout my internship, I found that the theories and ideas I learned in coursework were directly applicable to real-world scenarios. Understanding network protocols helped me comprehend why certain measures are necessary for maintaining network integrity and security, while knowledge of security principles informed my approach to combating potential threats. Concepts such as ITIL practices and ticketing systems were invaluable for efficiently managing user requests and maintaining service delivery standards.
Examples of work produced during my internship that demonstrate these skills include documentation of processes and procedures for setting up servers and configuring network protocols, records of troubleshooting technical issues and resolutions for hardware and software problems, and project plans and progress reports for initiatives like setting up SCCM servers or implementing security measures to combat phishing attempts. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience and skill development, I’ve laid a solid foundation for my future career in cybersecurity or IT management.
Personal Development
Personally, I felt that I was only okay with working in this area of IT, but if a new position came along with a better offer than I felt, why would I not take it? In my case, because I already had an internship and an understanding of how companies worked, I was offered another internship! The new internship was a cybersecurity consultant position. The company loves starting new positions that can benefit them costly and timely. They do not want any one person doing work outside of their scope, so that is how I came along here. I am excited to continue learning in this area, especially since it is more focused on cybersecurity.