Makayla Wilson, a senior at NJIT studying Mechanical Engineering, was introduced to the ANY Fellows Program by her Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Advisor at the end of her freshman year.
“The information that jumped out to me was having a 1-on-1 mentoring relationship with someone related to your field. I was finishing my freshman year and thought having a mentor would help me with future endeavors, especially because I am a first-generation student.”
The program taught her the significance of networking and how to do it confidently, enabling her to connect with diverse professionals and fellow participants.
“At workshops, you are always meeting new people in both cohorts, at enrichment opportunities, and outside opportunities. I know not only for me but from others I have met, we gained important opportunities solely based on networking at ANY events.”
She also valued the personalized mentorship provided by the program, which was especially beneficial as a first-generation student, offering a sense of shared experience and support.
“The experience with my mentor coach has been amazing. I like to think we are the best match in our cohort! My mentor has been so helpful with my personal, school, and professional life. In our mentorship, we would do activities outside the program to get to know one another and strengthen our relationship. Our pairing is long-lasting.”
Last summer, with ANY’s assistance, Makayla secured an internship at Shiseido as a production engineering intern, her first major-related position. Through the skills gained from ANY’s career development and with the support of the ANY team, she successfully interviewed for and accepted the role. The experience was so positive for both Makayla and Shiseido that she has been invited to intern again this summer.
“I feel one hundred percent better prepared for the workforce after finishing the Program. The Program has helped me improve my resume, interviewing skills, networking, and overall professional presence.”
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