Memo
TO: Corinne H. Shearer
FROM: Armando Cruz
DATE: February 20, 2024
SUBJECT: Reflection of Professional Opportunity Packet.
When first looking towards jobs, internships, or scholarships, I had decided what field I wanted them to be in. At first I looked at dream jobs and internships, many which are not as realistic. I then took it more seriously and decided to look into general STEM jobs and internships seeing which ones would interest me the most. After looking thoroughly towards many great opportunities I decided to look into a more specific topic. That would be looking into Computer Science fields. After a couple of minutes I found a couple of great internships and scholarships that were oriented towards my liking. I decided to take the ones that would not only interest me most but also benefit me the most. That led me to picking a Computer Science Intern Program. Because of this I would change my Resume and Personal Statement to try to cater more to the liking of the other program.
With the very little experience I had, I attempted to take out as many useless activities and skills that would have not had any direct correlation. In my Personal Statement I would write about how I would be a good fit for the program and why I should be in the program. I would also write a little about the program itself to show that I know a little about them. At the time of writing my Personal Statement I knew what I wanted to write. When it came to the Memo the ideas were not coming as quick to me as before. I had some struggles when finding out how to express my steps of my research process on the three opportunities. I was unable to explain my process effectively and concisely.
Afterall I am able to say I have learned a lot from these past writing assignments. Moving forward I know that I should adapt my resume and personal statement to the likes of the job or internship by highlighting important and relevant skills and experiences and eliminating the redundant ones. Along with that I know how important clearly stating ideas and steps as if not the message can be unclear and not be able to be understood in depth.
Personal Statement
As a computer science degree major in my first year of college, the chance of participating in the Computer Science Intern Program (CSIP) at the National Security Agency (NSA) in Fort Meade, Maryland has sparked great interest in me. The opportunity to immerse myself in the field of software engineering aligns perfectly with my academic and professional dreams.
The CSIP internship, focusing on software engineering, presents a unique chance for me to gain hands-on experience in the STEM field. Interns are assigned to projects that contribute to NSA’s mission. Projects culminate in a short presentation and technical paper. This internship is not only a way to build a strong foundation in my degree but also an aid towards clarifying my career goals in computer science.
Being a first-year student, I am eager to seize this opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, work alongside talented individuals, and contribute to meaningful projects. I have already immersed myself in starter languages in computer science and have begun to do tons of work on improving. Moreover, the chance to network with experts and professionals opens doors to future collaborations and mentorship.
In considering my long-term goals, this internship holds the potential to not only enhance my technical skills but also to expose me to the broader landscape of the tech industry. Truly something I have been working towards more in depth would be software engineering or potentially cyber security. The insights gained and connections established during the program will contribute to my growth as a computer science professional.
In conclusion, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute through the CSIP internship. I am committed to putting all into this experience to prepare myself for the future in the field of computer science. I am confident that my dedication, skills, and passion make me an ideal candidate for this internship.
Resume
EDUCATION
______________________________________________________________________________
08/23-Present The City College of New York- Harlem, NY. Expected Graduation 2027
09/19-06/23 The Renaissance Charter School (TRCS) – Jackson Heights, NY Graduated 2023
WORK EXPERIENCE
______________________________________________________________________________
10/23-Present Staples- Woodside, NY. Sales Associate Provide exceptional customer service and have customer’s needs in mind while helping them find products and providing solutions
07/23-08/23 HANAC, Inc P.S. 212Q- Jackson Heights, NY. Camp Counselor. Provide assistance to Group leaders with children/campers, transitioning between activities, distribute lunch, monitor campers, and promote safe play.
ACTIVITIES
______________________________________________________________________________
11/21-06/23 Chess Club (TRCS). Participant. Attended weekly meetings to learn to play chess, hone analytical and problem-solving skills. Participate in tournaments against classmates.
10/19-06/23 Peer Mediation (TRCS). Mediator. Received one-year training in mediation techniques and to help students resolve interpersonal conflicts. Met weekly to continue training.
11/21-06/22 Architecture Construction and Engineering (ACE) Mentorship Program – (Virtual). Participant. Attended weekly meetings that taught us about interior design and architecture; interviewed and planned a floor plan for a big company.
08/20-04/21 Teens For Racial and Ethnic Awakening (TREA) – (Virtual). Participant. Attend weekly meetings for two hours each week. Discussed current news.
07/19-08/19 Summer Youth Police Academy – Jackson Heights, NY. Participant. Attended summer youth police academy for six hours five days a week. Interacted with police officers. Learned drill commands.
HONORS
______________________________________________________________________________
09/22-06/23 TRCS Excelsior Honor Roll (3.0-3.49 GPA).
SKILLS
______________________________________________________________________________
English/Spanish Bilingual
