Seth, a senior engineering student, had a successful summer internship at General Dynamics Mission Systems that landed him a full-time position after graduation.
As a software engineering intern working in the cyber division, Seth’s summer focused on two main projects. The first involved driving software development, coding and programming, while the second project focused on test automation.
During his internship with General Dynamics Mission Systems, Seth noted, “We weren’t treated as interns, but rather as junior developers.” He explained that the experience provided meaningful, real-world exposure that made him feel like a valuable contributor to the team. Seth also highlighted the strength of the organization’s leadership, sharing that it was clear how management considered interns an integral part of the team’s success. This positive, collaborative environment significantly enhanced his overall experience.
Seth refined his engineering skills through hands-on Python development while gaining valuable experience in a professional, industry-level environment. In addition to the technical growth that Seth experienced at his internship, he also strengthened key professional skills such as communication, collaboration and problem-solving. Seth’s biggest lesson learned during his internship was to be proactive. Seth learned that asking thoughtful questions and taking initiative in his own work can lead to powerful outcomes. There were a lot of factors out of his control, but he did what he could to be successful.
Seth added that his Merrimack engineering courses prepared him well for the role, particularly his computer science and security-focused classes. He discovered his internship through independent research and by consistently applying to engineering-related opportunities.
During an internship exit meeting at the end of the summer, the management at General Dynamics Mission Systems told Seth to check his email, where a full-time return offer was waiting for him. When asked how it feels going into his senior year with a full-time offer, Seth said, “It feels pretty good. I am really happy.”
