19 and working as a Program Manager

I completed my first co-op in the Customer Programs & Services department at Southern California Edison (SCE). I supported all program operations for the Business Incentives team that runs some of the largest energy efficiency programs in the nation. These programs provide incentives, rebates, financing, and other services to encourage SCE's business customers to invest in energy-efficient equipment to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact.

I was the only first-year intern in the Customer Programs and Services department and was able to act as the Program Manager for an LED tube incentive and manage a $1 million budget while approving/denying product reservations with our company's wholesale lighting partners.

I was also able to assist with the launch of a new financing program, initiate a key communication process improvement, present an energy-efficiency bundle offering, and act as the key communication liaison with both internal and external stakeholders.

I was the only first-year intern [...] and was able to act as the Program Manager [...] and manage a $1 million budget while approving/denying product reservations with our company's wholesale lighting partners.

To round out my SCE co-op experience, I was presented with numerous professional development opportunities to shadow other departments of interest, built a strong professional network (including lunch with several of the VPs and other executives!), and learned many new skills that will prove transferable to my academic career and future co-op experiences. Multiple colleagues served as mentors, career advocates, and coached me in various skills.

Working at SCE was an eye-opening experience. Being able to learn so much about regulated utilities, energy, and business in general truly helped assure my interests and passion for business.

I am truly grateful for Drexel, LeBow College of Business, and LeBow B.R.I.D.G.E. for helping prepare me to be an invaluable asset in my first co-op experience through experiential learning opportunities, strong mentor relationships, corporate site visits, and educational workshops that prepared me well for co-op. I'm glad I chose Drexel because ambition can't wait.