November 12, 2021
In turn with Sarah Colborn
Finance major Sarah Colborn of Clayton, North Carolina, loves doxies and used to play volleyball, golf, and piano. She recently completed an internship with the Johnston County Finance Department, where she pre-audited reimbursements for the general fund, scanned checks and categorized emergency assistance funding for COVID-19 relief.
“Working in finance, I quickly found out that one of the best skills I learned was how to collaborate,” said Colborn. “This allowed me to get more out of my internship by working alongside my coworkers.”
What was the most challenging thing you experienced during your internship, and how did what you learned in the COB help you overcome it?
The most challenging thing I experienced was not knowing as much as those who had been in the department for years. However, the COB helped me overcome that by realizing there is always more to learn no matter how much you know. While working closely with the chief finance officer and accountants, I was encouraged to ask questions. In turn, this allowed me to tailor my work more specifically to their needs.
How did you apply what you learned in BUSI 1200, BUSI 2200, BUSI 3200 or BUSI 4200 to your internship?
Projects in BUSI 1200 taught me to project my voice and be confident in what I was saying.
What has this internship taught you about responsibility?
I was required to manage my time well because I also was taking two summer classes simultaneously. In addition, I learned the importance of the connections you make at work. Instead of just focusing on the daily tasks, it is essential to form relationships and ensure that everyone’s personal life is healthy. It made for a happier, more productive work environment.
How will this internship benefit you?
It highlighted how the focus in life should be on the people who surround you. Everyone I worked with made it a point to get to know me and make sure I was doing well. If we put in the effort to check on the people around us, both work and life will be more enjoyable.
Why would you recommend a business student take advantage of an internship opportunity?
The people you meet will impact your life forever and it is a great way to put course knowledge into real-life scenarios.