A Competitive Edge: Students Enhancing Job Prospects as Interns with AMI

(Manhattan, Kan., May 22, 2012) – Six Kansas State University students are gaining some valuable hands-on experience while working with professionals in their field of study this summer as interns with the university's Advanced Manufacturing Institute.

Each semester the institute employs students to assist its staff with client projects, giving them the chance to apply what they've learned in the classroom to actual projects. Internships with the Advanced Manufacturing Institute, or AMI, also are a way for students to enhance their job prospects and give them an edge on the competition when it comes to find that first job after graduation, according to Brad Kramer, institute director.

"We have students from a variety of majors, such as engineering, business, communications, biochemistry and the master of business administration program," Kramer said. "In addition to gaining valuable work experience, it is a good way for students to learn about industry resources and expand their network of contacts."

"Interning at the Advanced Manufacturing Institute presents a valuable complement to my in-class learning that makes my MBA in technology entrepreneurship even more well-rounded. This combination helps strengthen my skills and continues to develop my marketability," said Osayi Igharo, Kansas State University master's student in business administration from Abuja, Nigeria. "At AMI, I have performed market research and feasibility studies for products and patents on a number of projects. The exposure to a broad variety of business problems enriches my experience and leaves me increasingly confident and eager to face the job market upon graduation."

In addition to Igharo, students serving in the Advanced Manufacturing Institute’s internship program this summer include:

Michael Patenaude, junior in mechanical engineering, Clay Center; Andrew Woolley, junior in chemical engineering, Goddard; Casey Heim, sophomore in mechanical engineering, Hoxie; Amanda Weishaar, master of business administration, Lawrence; and Alexandra Ternes, May 2012 bachelor's graduate in chemical engineering and biochemistry, Wichita.