Meet Paige Youngdahl, a senior at Wichita State University majoring in Information Technology and Management Information Systems. This past summer, Paige advanced her skills as a Data Analyst Intern at Koch Industries, an opportunity that came through a unique connection—a former coaching relationship where one of her players' parents, a Koch employee, recognized her potential and shared her resume with her current supervisor.

In her role, Paige manages database setup and update requests, identifying necessary system modifications and coordinating required approvals. She has also taken on projects to update large datasets, enhancing her expertise in data management. This summer, Paige participated in a trading simulator, gaining a firsthand understanding of the trading market—an experience that enriched her perspective on finance and technology.

Reflecting on the experience, Paige says her favorite part has been connecting classroom concepts to real-world applications. “I can't explain how many things clicked that I didn't fully understand from my classes. I have learned so much and have met so many amazing people.”

Paige encourages other students to pursue internships, saying, “For me, it was like two puzzle pieces were coming together. I'm currently learning the textbook knowledge I need, while also seeing how this knowledge is used in a business. I don't think I could understand everything that I am learning to the extent that I do without the real-life experience. Plus, it's helping me meet more people who are giving me even more knowledge on the industry. Other students should definitely at least apply for an internship, for the knowledge and experience.”

With her experience at Koch, Paige is more prepared than ever to make an impact in the field of IT and data analytics, confident in her ability to contribute meaningfully in her future career.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.