Zhaleh Freels, a ’09 International Studies graduate, took anything but the traditional route to graduation. Looking back, she credits her co-op position at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base as one of the most beneficial factors to her career success.
Zhaleh, who started Wright State as an Art major in 1998, eventually realized that International Studies was her true vocation. After a number of breaks from school to raise her son and daughter, Zhaleh was determined to finish her degree, so in 2007 she came back to school. One year later, she learned about an opportunity at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base that would prove to be life-changing.
In 2008, Zhaleh applied for and was hired for a summer position at WPAFB. Her motivation and capabilities landed her a long-term co-op position that fall. While her classes in International Studies did not prepare Zhaleh for the jargon used at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the classes were very helpful in preparing her for the work. There was a big connection between what was taught in class and her duties at WPAFB: the importance of being culturally mindful in every situation, especially when working with multiple countries. Zhaleh graduated from Wright State in 2009 and has a successful career at WPAFB – a career made possible by her successful co-op experience.
Zhaleh’s advice to current students is to not only focus on the direct impacts of opportunities but on the indirect impacts as well. This holistic way of viewing education and work helps people to get the most out of every experience as possible. How do students get these opportunities or internships? It’s most often through the mysterious phenomenon known as “networking.” Zhaleh suggests attending job fairs, participating in mentorships, and, simply enough, taking internships as ways to network. All of these opportunities get you out there, they make connections, and they can create the experiences needed to make the transition from academic life to professional life.
While all students head down different paths in their academic lives, an internship is a great way to transition from academics to a career. It opens doors, creates new connections, and completes the college experience.
