Mike Casper and Ryan Helmoski were chosen for IBM's Extreme Blue Competition, a competitive 12-week internship program. Both students are computer science majors in the Jeffrey S. Raikes School.
What is IBM Extreme Blue and what interested you about the program?
Mike: IBM Extreme Blue is IBM's specialized internship program that groups three technical interns and an MBA intern together to work on a problem IBM faces as identified by divisions of IBM. The group of interns has twelve weeks to determine and develop a solution that addresses the identified problem. At the end of the internship, groups present their solutions to IBM executives, business partners, and clients. What interested me about the program was the group project environment. Not only will I have to opportunity to work with other technical interns to develop a unique solution, but I will also have the opportunity to work alongside an MBA student. This will provide me with an experience that essentially models how projects in the software industry are handled as usually not all people involved will have a technical background.
Ryan: Extreme Blue is IBM's premier internship. Over 5000 people apply to the program, but only about 30 people receive an offer. The internship is similar to Design Studio in the Raikes School. Interns are split into teams of 3-4 developers and one business intern. They are then given a project to work on for 12 weeks. At the end of the summer, all of the teams present their projects to IBM's top management at IBM's headquarters in New York. More information about the program can be found at http://ibm.com/extremeblue.
When does it start and how are you feeling leading up to it?
Mike: It starts on the 23rd of May and I am very excited to get started. The project that I will be working on sounds very interesting and will help me continue to diversify my knowledge of development strategies. This internship has provided me with my first opportunity to live outside of my home state for an extended period of time which I am also excited about.
Ryan: My start date has not been determined yet, but I'm excited to get to work!
How do you think your education has prepared you for this challenge?
Mike: I think I am very prepared for this new challenge because of my education both at UNL and from previous internships. I have learned so much since starting my CS degree at UNL. Both my classes through the CSE department and the Raikes School have provided me with more extensive knowledge of software systems than I could have expected coming into college. My internships have also provided me with valuable experience of working in the industry alongside more experienced developers as well as alongside nontechnical employees.
Ryan: The Raikes School has prepared me well for this internship because it has provided me with plenty of development experience, and it has given me a solid foundation in software engineering.
What advice would you give to new students regarding the CSE program, time at UNL, internships, involvement, etc.?
Mike: I think new students should try to find what aspects of computer science or software engineering they enjoy the most and find the most interesting. For instance, I had no intentions of learning about mobile development or intentions of learning how to be a front-end developer coming into college. After having to create an Android application for one of my classes, I found out how much I enjoy mobile development and front-end development in general. I think one of the best ways to branch out and learn more is to have projects that you are interested in and are willing to work on outside of class. These side projects will allow you to explore new technologies you would otherwise be unable to utilize in a classroom. On top of the learning opportunities, side projects are also a great way to show potential employers that you are truly passionate about what you do. Having side projects will help you stand out from the crowd when looking for internships as well as full-time positions.
Ryan: Many freshmen I talk to aren't sure whether they are ready for an internship, but I would encourage them to go for it. Internships are meant to be learning experiences, so you aren't expected to be an expert. They also allow you to apply what you are learning in school to the real world. Plus, they look great on a resume. As for student involvement, I would encourage freshmen to try out any clubs they think they might be interested in on campus. Also, don't be afraid to try something new. RSO's make for a great way to meet new people, and they give you something to do other than studying. I've been involved in the UNL Ballroom Dance Company and Running Club since my freshman year. Joining those clubs was one of the best decisions I made as a freshman.
What are your future plans?
Mike: I am not sure what my future plans are. I think it would be really interesting and educational to have the opportunity to start a business, but as of right now, I don't have any groundbreaking ideas. Barring coming up with some innovative idea, I am likely going to work as a software developer for another company. I really enjoyed my time interning at Spreetail, so that is high on my list. I am also planning on looking for other opportunities.to pick up new skills and have new experiences.
Ryan: I don't have any definite plans yet, but I plan to work as a software engineer in the industry after completing my bachelors degree.
Original article from CSE's Bits and Bytes is here.
