Career Services and Professional Development Center Launches Preferred Internship Program

Internships have long served as opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience while developing new and existing skills and knowledge. According to the Job Outlook 2025 survey published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), internships can even be a contributing factor in determining whether an employer hires a candidate. To support students at Mississippi University for Women in securing and being successful in impactful internships, the Career Services and Professional Development (CSPD) Center has launched the Preferred Internship Program with its first Preferred Intern.

Over the summer, Syniah L. Lester, a senior family science major, completed an internship as a Contract Specialist with the 14th Contracting Squadron at Columbus Air Force Base. She initially applied for the base’s paid Premier College Internship Program in the fall of 2024. After working with the CSPD Center to prepare her application, she was notified of her acceptance, but she faced a few setbacks before her first day.

The Preferred Internship Program has two main goals: to eliminate barriers and provide both the student intern and employer partner with a positive experience. As a native of Desoto County, Syniah would have been unable to participate in the base’s internship program without securing local housing for the summer. Additionally, due to federal hiring freezes and budget cuts, the base could no longer offer the internship as a paid opportunity. To help Syniah overcome these barriers, the CSPD Center covered her expenses to live on campus and helped her secure a stipend through the Nancy Yates Fellowship.

As a Preferred Intern, Syniah prepared for her first day on the job by working with the internship coordinator, Ali Glasgow, to develop an internship strategy. She also completed professional development training in areas such as conflict management, professionalism, workplace communication, financial literacy, and salary negotiation.

At the end of her internship, Syniah received an outstanding review from her supervisor, Angela Busby- Blackburn. Busby-Blackburn serves as the deputy commander and director of Business Operations at Columbus Air Force Base, 14 CONS. Upon reviewing Syniah’s performance, she noted, “Everyone was happy with Syniah’s engagement and enjoyed their time with her. She listened, sought advice, and followed through. There was one particular training where no one would have known she was an intern because she joined in and answered questions with ease. She did a great job.”

When reflecting on her experience in the Preferred Internship Program, Syniah said, “This program gives students the opportunity to learn about themselves, be exposed to learning opportunities that promote professional development, and equip themselves with skills that can be used in their academic internship and careers. This internship has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and explore other ways that I can use my degree.”

If you would like to support students like Syniah, you can donate online at give.muw.edu and designate your gift to the Professional Development Scholarship.