Hi everyone! My name is Rohit Pandey, and I am currently a student at the University of Pittsburgh pursuing a major in data science. This summer, I will be participating in the International Internship Program in Berlin, Germany. Ever since I heard about the opportunity to combine international travel with professional experience, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. Being able to live and work in another country is an experience I never wanted to pass up, and I am extremely excited to see how this summer goes.
Some facts about me: I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and have always enjoyed how energetic the city feels while still having a strong sense of community. In my free time, I enjoy playing the piano, watching sports, listening to music, working out, and spending time with friends and family. I am also very interested in sports analytics and the role data plays in decision-making, performance, and strategy. Whether it is in sports or any other aspect of analyzing data, I enjoy understanding trends and finding ways information can be used to improve outcomes.
Academically, I have spent much of my college experience developing technical and analytical skills through programming, math, and data-focused coursework. Before transferring to Pitt, I attended Rochester Institute of Technology, where I further developed my interest in technology and problem-solving. Throughout college, I have learned that adaptability and communication are just as important as technical skills. I hope to continue strengthening both during my time abroad this summer.
Professionally, I am looking forward to gaining hands-on experience through my internship in Berlin. This will be my first international professional experience, and I am excited to see how workplaces and business culture may differ from what I am familiar with in the United States. I believe working in a new environment will help me grow more confident professionally while also improving my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
When I first started looking through Pitt’s Global Experiences programs, the International Internship Program immediately stood out to me because it combined two things I really wanted out of college: studying abroad and gaining meaningful internship experience. I wanted a program that would push me outside of my comfort zone while also helping me grow professionally, and the IIP felt like the perfect fit.
Choosing Berlin was an easy decision for me. Berlin is known for its history, innovation, and international atmosphere, and I was drawn to the idea of experiencing a completely different culture while working in one of Europe’s most influential cities. I am especially excited to experience the city’s public transportation system, explore the history and architecture, and immerse myself in daily life there. I also think living abroad will help me become more independent and open-minded.
Personally, I hope this experience allows me to grow by stepping into unfamiliar situations and learning how to adapt. I want to meet new people, experience a different culture firsthand, and gain a broader perspective of the world outside the United States. Academically and professionally, I hope to apply the skills I have learned in the classroom to real-world situations while learning from professionals in an international setting. I know this experience will challenge me, but I also believe those challenges will help me grow the most.
Although I am definitely nervous about traveling across the world and living in a completely new environment, I am even more excited for the opportunities and experiences ahead. This summer is something I have been looking forward to for a long time, and I cannot wait to begin my journey in Berlin.
