Sarah Suchmann
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Project Management Intern @ EnterSolar
Tell us about the job search. Was it more difficult or easier than you expected?
The job search was very stressful at first but ultimately wasn't too difficult. There were lots of opportunities that even if they didn't result in a job offer, there was at least networking. Because of the program I applied to there were several companies that reached out to me and gave me more confidence to apply.
What was the interview process like?
There were three rounds of interviews. The first was over the phone with the supervisor and lasted maybe 20-30 minutes. About a week later I was told I would be moving on to the next round where I would meet with someone from the team. This interview was over zoom and lasted about an hour. A week after that I was told as a final step I would be interviewing with the Vice President of the department and two more team members for 30 min each. In every interview it was largely conversational with the standard "Tell me about yourself..." and various behavioral questions. After a total of five interviews, I received an offer about two weeks later.
What will you be doing?
I will be part of the Project Management team overseeing commercial solar projects.
Do you have any job search tips for fellow students?
It really helps to network and make real life connections! It is so much more difficult to prove how good of a candidate you are when you're just an anonymous resume and cover letter. Research what companies you'd like to work for and start connecting on LinkedIn or via email. It helps to ask people in positions you want at companies you are interested in to a virtual coffee chat so you can chat with them about their experience and build a relationship.
When did you first start the job search & how long did it take you to get an interview?
I started in early fall. I was able to secure several interviews fairly quickly, but it took about a month or so until there was an opportunity that showed promise.
Which methods led you to the job?
I worked with the NY State clean energy initiative NYSERDA by applying to one of their programs which connects employers to a list of students interested/experienced in clean energy.
Tell us about the job search. Was it more difficult or easier than you expected?
The job search was very stressful at first but ultimately wasn't too difficult. There were lots of opportunities that even if they didn't result in a job offer, there was at least networking. Because of the program, I applied to there were several companies that reached out to me and gave me more confidence to apply.
What was the interview process like?
There were three rounds of interviews. The first was over the phone with the supervisor and lasted maybe 20-30 minutes. About a week later I was told I would be moving on to the next round where I would meet with someone from the team. This interview was over zoom and lasted about an hour. A week after that I was told as a final step I would be interviewing with the Vice President of the department and two more team members for 30 min each. In every interview it was largely conversational with the standard "Tell me about yourself..." and various behavioral questions. After a total of five interviews, I received an offer about two weeks later.
What will you be doing?
I will be part of the Project Management team overseeing commercial solar projects.
Do you have any job search tips for fellow students?
It really helps to network and make real life connections! It is so much more difficult to prove how good of a candidate you are when you're just an anonymous resume and cover letter. Research what companies you'd like to work for and start connecting on LinkedIn or via email. It helps to ask people in positions you want at companies you are interested in to a virtual coffee chat so you can chat with them about their experience and build a relationship.
When did you first start the job search & how long did it take you to get an interview?
I started in early fall. I was able to secure several interviews fairly quickly, but it took about a month or so until there was an opportunity that showed promise.
Which methods led you to the job?
I worked with the NY State clean energy initiative NYSERDA by applying to one of their programs which connects employers to a list of students interested/experienced in clean energy