We are a company with an entrepreneurial mindset, how do you feel about taking on extra work outside of your internship projects?
I’d be very enthusiastic about taking on extra work outside of my core internship projects. I see it as an opportunity to learn more about the broader business, contribute in new ways, and develop my own skills. In previous roles, such as my marketing internship at Heliosand, I took on additional tasks like creating a pitch deck collateral for a Series A investment round outside of my initial responsibilities of redesigning their new website and conducting market research. Taking on this extra task taught me how to create compelling pitch decks. I learnt how to highlight problems being addressed, how our company's technology was the solution, and finally the potential applications and market opportunity. I found that the extra work not only equipped me with new skills but also gave me valuable insights into other areas of the business within the company. I’d approach any additional projects with the same level of commitment and curiosity as my primary tasks, seeing them as a chance to deepen my understanding and make a meaningful impact.
Describe a time when you took the initiative to address a problem that wasn’t your responsibility.
During my internship at [blank], I noticed that our investor materials didn’t clearly explain the technical parts of our solar technology. Even though it wasn’t part of my job responsibility, I decided to talk to my manager who suggested I meet with the engineering team to make the descriptions easier to understand. The change was well-received, and it was a reminder that sometimes it’s worth stepping up and suggesting improvements, even if it’s outside your official role.
Can you describe a time when new information emerged, requiring you to adopt an unusual or creative approach to address the situation? Please explain the specific steps you took.
Situation:
As a Youth Ambassador for [non-profit name], a nonprofit addressing short-term solutions for homelessness in [city], I worked closely with the organization for several years. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, [non-profit name] could no longer carry out its primary service of assembling care packages with essential items (e.g., water, socks, nonperishable foods) due to restrictions on in-person gatherings. This posed a critical challenge to supporting the homeless community during an already difficult time.
Task:
I was tasked with finding a way to continue [non-profit name]’ mission despite the restrictions, ensuring that care packages could still be created and distributed while prioritizing the safety of everyone involved.
Action:
To address this, I proposed and organized a virtual Zoom care package event in collaboration with [non-profit name] and my school. The idea was to engage the school community in a safe, structured service event. Each year group was assigned to a separate breakout room, allowing students to socialize virtually with their peers while packing care packages from their homes.
In preparation, I created and distributed detailed instructions on what to include in the packages, such as essential basics like socks and food. On the event day, parents and students participated enthusiastically, resulting in a strong sense of community and collaboration. Additionally, I implemented a safe drop-off system where participants could deliver completed packages to the school, and Urban Angels partnered with Project Homeless Connect to ensure their distribution to those in need.
Result:
The event exceeded expectations, with over 2,700 care packages created and safely distributed to the homeless community. Beyond achieving the goal, the initiative strengthened community bonds, brought families together during isolation, and provided a creative, scalable solution to an unprecedented challenge.
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