Introduction

I am Paul Akinyemi, a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in Clarkson University’s Department of Chemical Engineering. Under the guidance of Dr. Taeyoung Kim, my research centers on Water-Energy Electrochemical Systems, focusing on cutting-edge technologies in water treatment, reuse and electrochemical desalination. As I continue my graduate studies and research, I’ve been fortunate to complement my academic pursuits with invaluable industry experience. At Clarkson, real-world professional experiences are a key part of graduate students’ educational journey. This past summer, I embarked on an exciting internship with Corning Incorporated, a world leader in materials science.

Internship Experience: Engineering for Manufacturing at Corning

At Corning, I took on the role of a Firing Process Engineer Intern, contributing to high-impact global projects aimed at enhancing the sustainability of ceramic substrate manufacturing processes. I worked on refining the operational parameters for the sintering process, which is critical in the production of ceramic substrates used in emissions control technologies. My work focused on reducing energy consumption and improving the overall sustainability of the process — a topic of increasing importance for engineers in today’s environmentally-conscious manufacturing landscape.

This hands-on experience gave me the chance to:

• Develop and execute experimental processes to enhance their sustainability.
• Gain a deeper understanding of how different processes impact material properties.
• Define key operational parameters to closely mirror real manufacturing conditions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on global projects that had direct business impact.
• Author two technical reports that are now part of Corning’s intellectual property.

Through this internship experience, I developed advanced skills in process optimization, material science and sustainable engineering, all of which are critical for my future career. In addition, I had the opportunity to network with Clarkson alumni (fellow Golden Knights) who are making significant contributions to the industry as Corning engineers – a further testament to the lasting impact of Clarkson’s excellence and reputation.

Gaining Competitive Advantage as a Graduate Student

One of the distinct advantages of pursuing graduate education at Clarkson University is the focus on integrating academic research with professional work experience. Internships like mine at Corning offer graduate students the opportunity to apply technical expertise in real-world settings, equipping us with the skills and connections necessary to thrive in competitive industries. Additionally, Clarkson’s Career Center offers a wealth of resources to help students secure internships, co-ops and job placements. 

My Tips for Graduate Students Seeking Internships

• Leverage Clarkson’s Career Resources: From the Career Center to faculty connections, Clarkson offers numerous resources to help you secure internships and career opportunities.
• Build Your Network: Relationships are key in any field. Cultivate connections within your department, among alumni and with industry professionals. 
• Start Early: Applying for internships early ensures you have a wider range of options and allows you to secure a position that aligns with your career goals.

Returning to My Research with Renewed Perspective

With my internship complete, I’ve returned to Clarkson’s Green Electrochemical Research (GreenER) Laboratory to continue my PhD research in water treatment and desalination technologies. My internship at Corning has equipped me with new insights into process engineering and sustainability, which I’m now applying to my work on optimizing electrochemical processes for brackish groundwater desalination. 

Advice for Future Interns

The technical work you do in an internship is important, but soft skills — like communication, collaboration and adaptability — are equally critical. Embrace the learning process, maintain a positive attitude, and focus on building strong professional relationships. Your internship is not just a test of your technical skills but also a reflection of your potential as a future professional in your field.

For students like me, Clarkson’s blend of academic rigor and professional development is the key to a successful transition into the workforce. Thanks to my internship experience and the career preparation I have received, I feel confident that I will graduate ready for the demands of the workforce from day one. 

If you’re a prospective graduate student looking for a university that will support your professional growth and open doors to exciting career opportunities, Clarkson University is the place to be.