A Standout Among Scholars: Proud Recipient of One of Four Summer Internship Awards.
Major: Finance
Company: Dacotah Bank
Internship Title: Banking Intern
Location of Internship: Aberdeen, SD
Semester: Summer 2025
Why did you choose the company you work for?
I chose to intern at Dacotah Bank because I truly align with the company’s values. I love that they are a community-focused bank – they are not just about financial services. They are about building relationships and making a real difference in the communities they serve. That really stood out to me. On top of that, the opportunities for learning and growth here are amazing. I knew I would be gaining hands-on experience while being part of a team that genuinely wants to see me succeed.
What were some requirements for your internship?
One of the main requirements for this internship is having a willingness to learn and have an open mindset. We rotate through about 35 different departments, so it is important to be curious and ready to take in a lot of new information. So far, I have had the chance to meet with teams in Agriculture and Business banking, credit, consumer lending, and more. Each department offers a unique perspective, and it has been really eye-opening to see how all the pieces of the bank work together.
What is your favorite part about your internship experience?
My favorite part of the internship so far has definitely been the people. Everyone is so welcoming, and it is clear they truly want to help you learn and grow. That kind of support makes a huge difference. On top of that, there are so many opportunities to learn – from shadowing different departments to asking questions and getting hands-on experience. It has been such a positive and encouraging environment.
What is the most challenging part of your internship? How have you overcome these obstacles?
The most challenging part of the internship has been taking the wealth of knowledge we are given and actually retaining it. With so many departments and so much information, it can definitely feel overwhelming at times. I have been able to overcome this by taking detailed notes, reviewing them, and following up with the departments if I have questions after our rotations. Everyone has been super open to helping, which makes it easier to stay on track and keep learning.
How did you find your internship?
Through a Career Fair or Career Expo at NDSU.
Why was it beneficial for you to register for academic credit through the Internship Program offered through the Career and Advising Center?
It was beneficial for me to register through the Internship Program because it allowed me to fulfill my elective requirements while gaining real-world experience. It is a great way to make the most of my time – learning outside of the classroom while also working towards my degree.
What advice would you give a student who is in the process of searching and applying for an internship?
My biggest piece of advice is to put yourself out there and talk to people! Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and start conversations. Recruiters genuinely want to connect with you – not just to see if you are a good fit for them, but also to help you figure out if they are a good fit for you. Networking can open so many doors, so be confident and take that first step.
