October 28, 2020
In turn with Dejah McManus
In turn is a series that highlights the interns and internship opportunities found within the College of Business (COB)
A student. A mentor. A treasurer. An entrepreneur. A program manager.
These words describe senior Dejah McManus and her time here at ECU’s College of Business. She recently interned for Wayne County Public Library, which was part of an overall internship with the SECU Public Fellows Internship program. She learned about the opportunity via the COB.
“She’s one of those rare people who works very hard and diligently but does so with a smile on her face,” says Aisha Powell, assistant director, COB’s Advising Center.
McManus is a native of Indian Trail, North Carolina. She’s majoring in accounting and plans to graduate fall 2021. She currently serves a the treasurer for the National Association for Black Accountants and is in her first year as a Peer Mentor for the College of Business. McManus also is the founder of Dejah Renae MUA, a freelance makeup artistry company. She plans to pursue her masters of science in accounting after graduation.
McManus leaned on her entrepreneurial experience during her internship to start a program that addressed a community priority.
“I worked with Wayne County Public Library to develop Project Click!, a program that will benefit aspiring entrepreneurs who lack access to the digital tools and resources they need to be successful,” said McManus. “As an intern, I evaluated the efficiency of this project’s digital tools, education opportunities, resources, space for exploration, and innovation. To generate maximum success for the program, I created social media marketing, advertisement letters, and informational video content. I also managed the recruitment of experienced speakers for social networking events so that Project Click! participants can gain extensive knowledge from successful entrepreneurs.”
What did you learn from your Project Click! work?
I gained problem-solving and project management skills by developing a program through a completely unfamiliar virtual format. Through this internship opportunity, I also have further developed my time management skills by creating and evaluating content by the appropriate deadlines and ensuring the program’s accessibility by the planned date of execution.”
How did the COB prepare you to be the chosen candidate?
The COB has prepared me through their practice interviews and guidance on resume building. They also helped me build a strong work ethic and professional business etiquette.
Describe your experience at the COB.
I have thoroughly enjoyed being a student at the COB. It has created an environment where I feel I can thrive and succeed. There are endless opportunities for internships and jobs through events such as Employer at the Foyer, the Job and Internship Fair, and Meet the Firms.
I have served on COB panels to ensure student voices are heard, and I have had numerous opportunities to connect and network with all of the friendly COB staff and students.
Why would you recommend a business student take advantage of an internship opportunity?
Internship opportunities help students to grow both as a professional and an individual. Through internships, students gain experience that will make them a better candidate for future employers. Being an intern also grants students a chance to truly understand if the field they are preparing for aligns with their expectations.
What was the moment during your internship search process where you knew that your ECU COB education has paid off?
It was during my internship search. I was provided opportunities for internships and employment positions through my email, which I check daily. To have a notification of a new opportunity in my inbox motivates me and reminds me that there are always new opportunities out there to make myself more prepared for the future.
