Impact Cats Sets Students for Summer Internship Success
The arrival of summer signifies the start of summer internships nationwide. University of Arizona students in the FORGE Impact Cats program are ready to take on summer challenges with exceptional problem-solving skills.
The Impact Cats program is a yearlong experiential learning program focused on entrepreneurial mindset and venture exploration for first-generation undergraduate students. The goal is to help the students in the cohort better understand the impact they wish to have in the world and how being entrepreneurial can help them achieve that impact.
After receiving coaching sessions, the students participate in skill-building seminars to enhance their professional development. Students participate in workshops ranging from resume building and review, to design thinking, mock interviews, and an intern expectations workshop from Student Engagement and Career Development.
These free workshops help students hone their skills to prepare them for success during summer internships and beyond.
Kavya Reddy Vankela, one of the participants of Impact Cats ‘24 highlighted how Impact Cats streamlined her internship search and preparation. “The program has provided a structured framework for self-discovery and goal setting, allowing me to clarify my vision and develop actionable strategies to achieve it,” said Kavya. A University of Arizona College of Engineering Aerospace Engineering student in her freshman year, Kavya also shared how engaging with like-minded peers and industry experts has played a crucial role in expanding her perspective. “It has inspired me to think creatively about how I can make a difference in the world.”
Kavya also mentioned the importance of one-on-one mock interview sessions during her preparation, “These sessions provided a safe space for me to practice and refine my interview skills, receive constructive feedback, and gain confidence in presenting myself professionally. The personalized guidance and insights I received during these sessions have been invaluable in preparing me for real-world interviews and have significantly contributed to my professional growth.”
The second and ongoing phase of the program assists students with opportunities to obtain a summer internship with one of our partner organizations which include Arizona Luminaria, AZ Cyber Initiative, Borderlands Restoration Network, Tucson Community Gardens, and Southwest Decision Resources among others.
In the fall, participating students will present at the Impact Cats Showcase to reflect on and share their learning. We wish our hardworking students the best of luck as they prepare to create an impact with their upcoming opportunities!