Internship Success - Ali

Tell us a bit about your background. What were you studying and your career goals before starting your internship?

I studied a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours). Before starting my internship, my main career goal was to secure a full-time role in the construction and engineering industry.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when entering the job market or gaining relevant experience?

The biggest challenge I faced was that the first job or internship is always the hardest to acquire. Breaking into the industry with limited experience can feel daunting, but it’s an essential step in building a career.

How did you feel going into your internship at Stilcon, and what were your first impressions of working in a professional environment?

I was very excited heading into my internship with Stilcon, as I was genuinely interested in the types of projects they had previously delivered. My first impressions of the professional environment were extremely positive. Everyone was welcoming, and I immediately noticed that the communication within the team was much more effective and structured compared to what I had experienced among classmates at university.

“By the end of my internship, I was working on my own as if I were already part of the team.”

What were the most valuable skills or insights you gained during your internship, and how did your confidence grow throughout the experience?

During my internship, I learned the importance of communication and building strong connections with peers and supervisors. I also gained experience working under deadlines, which taught me how to stay organised and adaptable. My confidence grew day by day—at the beginning, I would regularly ask my supervisor for direction, but by the end of the internship, I was completing tasks independently. I felt like a genuine part of the team.

How did it feel to be offered a role at the end of your internship, and what advice would you give other students or graduates looking to follow a similar path?

When I was offered a role at the end of my internship, I was absolutely thrilled. It felt like a huge milestone in my career journey.

“When I was offered a role at Stilcon, I felt thrilled—it was a huge milestone in my career.”

My advice to other students and graduates is to create genuine connections with your colleagues and supervisors, always give 100% to your work, and don’t be afraid of making mistakes or facing rejections. These experiences will only help you grow.