Who are you?

Erin Grace Fitzpatrick, Junior, Biomedical Engineering

Who is your employer?

Siemens Healthcare Innovation Think Tank
Erlangen, Germany

How did you learn about your internship?

I participated in the German LBAT 2014, and we visited Siemens in Munich. I was amazed at the kind of work they were doing. Two students of the same major a year ahead of me received a contact there. They both ended up interning for the Innovation Think Tank last year. I just talked to those students about the opportunity.

What was the application process like?

All I had to do was send my CV to Georgia Tech intern there. He forwarded it to the admin team. Then I had to fill out a questionnaire. Once I returned that, I was called and asked to CAD model an ultrasound. After I sent that back, I was hired.

What were your major tasks or projects at this internship?

I do a variety of things. Everyone who works here besides the boss is a student. We work on projects ranging from consulting to hardcore engineering and design. I am also responsible for foreign recruitment. As an innovation think tank intern, you will also work with the Innovation Research lab (IRL) at the local university. I help organize their events, and I will also be leading some lectures and holding office hours for their students.

Do you have any recommendations for Georgia Tech students looking to intern in the same company or country?

I'd say to start creating a good CV. Also try to have proof to back up your claims. For example, I turned in my process book and some drawings and CAD files when I filled out the questionnaire.

Where did you live? Did you find accomodations independently or with your company's help?

I live in a flat in Nuremberg. It's just a 20 mins train ride from work. I found accommodation independently. Siemens gives you a list of websites to check out for housing, but I found my own.

How has this internship influenced your career path?

I actually want to go into Patent law, but working with so many young students has made me want to help out start ups in the future.