I’m halfway through the program, and I have to say time has really flown by. I feel like I’ve already gained so much from this experience, but I hope to continue to learn much more during these next few weeks. This week I started my new project of generating AI images. One of the first images that I have to create is a blank map of the United States. I consulted prior research and tests on AI models and the prompt phrasing that I might need to do in order to get what I need to. Despite this, it took me several tries in order to get the results that I wanted. I had to create almost about 50 different prompt requests in order to achieve the result that I wanted. This has given me the soft skill of patience and persistence, but more importantly, the hard skill of prompt generation. Overall, I’m very glad for this task because I’ve developed this skill. It has given me quite a lot of frustration, but overall, after figuring it out, the satisfaction was worth it. This is super common in computer science, but this took me off guard because I didn’t anticipate facing challenges with AI image generation, because it seems very simple on the surface, but when I started actually doing it, it proved to me more difficult. This is a very useful skill to have when working with AI, which is something that I hope to be doing in my future career.
MAPS
The first map (very evidently not blank) vs. one of the last maps created (much more blank, but still not perfect)
The biggest transferable skill that I’ve developed is communication skills, specifically cross-cultural communication skills. Interacting with locals, my host family, and my coworkers has helped me in understanding and bridging cultural differences. It’s given me the ability to convey ideas clearly and respectfully across cultures. I’ve also gained a certain level of language proficiency, both written and spoken. This will enhance my ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.
Aside from that, I think I’ve gained a certain level of adaptability and flexibility. Adapting to a new city, culture, and even my new work environment requires a decent amount of flexibility and the ability to handle challenges smoothly and efficiently. I’ve also developed networking and relationship-building skills. As a result of the new cultural setting, I’ve been able to improve my ability to network and build lasting connections.
Finally, I have developed time management skills as a result of balancing life and work. I’ve had to manage time effectively in order to balance my internship responsibilities, personal life, and exploring the city.
In terms of hard skills that I’ve gained at the internship, I’ve been working on AI Model Testing, Prompt Engineering, and AI Image Generation. With AI Model Testing, I’ve gained a certain understanding of AI models, the different kinds of AI models, their effectiveness with different tasks, etc. I’ve also learned how to test AI models, set up experiments for them, run these tests, and analyze the results. I also had to learn how to create effective prompts in order to guide AI models to produce desired outputs. I also had to learn how to iteratively refine prompts based on output quality and performance metrics. For AI Image Generation, I had to acquire proficiency in AI tools. I then had to evaluate AI-generated images for both artistic quality and technical accuracy.
Finally, with all of this, I’ve had to work on technical documentation. I’ve developed skills in writing clear, concise, and comprehensive technical documentation for AI model testing procedures, findings, and best practices.
As I mentioned earlier, one of the benefits of the global competencies that I’ve gained is the ability to navigate cross-cultural situations. Demonstrating respect and sensitivity towards cultural differences enhances my ability to work harmoniously with local colleagues and partners. Also, being open to different perspectives and ways of thinking has allowed me to work in a multicultural team. It’s given me an adaptable mindset, which has helped me in accepting and integrating different cultural practices and viewpoints. Even in primarily US-based companies, employing cross-cultural communication strategies can help resolve misunderstandings and conflicts. Within companies, regardless of the level of diversity, many people have very different viewpoints, and being able to navigate cross-cultural boundaries is one way to resolve these differences and work with a team that has many different perspectives.
Additionally, this international experience has enhanced my global awareness and empathy. Engaging with diverse cultures has broadened my understanding of global issues and different ways of life, which is invaluable in today’s interconnected world. This has also improved my problem-solving skills, as I’ve learned to approach challenges from multiple angles and consider diverse solutions. Overall, this experience has not only enriched my professional skills but also my personal growth, making me a more well-rounded individual ready to face the globalized job market.