Engineering internship helps Penn State Abington student refine his career goal

ABINGTON, Pa. — By the time Olamiji Ogunleye returned to Penn State Abington to begin his second year, he had already tested his classroom learning in a professional setting. The mechanical engineering major tackled real-world challenges and sharpened his vision for his future career during his summer internship.

“This internship helped me connect what I learned in the classroom with real manufacturing problems,” he said. “Completing a meaningful industrial internship after my first year has increased my confidence and confirmed my interest in mechanical and product design.”

Internships like Ogunleye’s are one of the pillars of the Abington Experience, which supports students as they prepare for their careers through leadership development, research with faculty, and travel opportunities before graduation.

At Atlas Pressed Metals, he refined his computer-aided design (CAD) modeling skills and learned new software while working on a reverse-engineering project by creating a model and engineering drawing that could ultimately save the company money. He also developed reference materials to help employees better identify components and understand manufacturing processes.

The internship introduced him to manufacturing, an area of engineering he had not fully considered before, and expanded his concept of an engineer's role.

“I learned that an engineer must understand how a component functions, how it will be manufactured, what information production employees need, and whether the proposed solution provides value to the company," he said.

The internship also brought home the crucial role communication plays in the workplace.

"My supervisors trusted me with projects while remaining available when I need guidance. Their feedback helped me improve my technical work, become more confident when presenting ideas, and understand the professional standards expected of an engineer," Ogunleye, an international student, said. "These interactions have taught me to listen carefully, ask purposeful questions, and respect the experience of everyone involved in the manufacturing process."

His Abington Experience

The relationships he developed at Abington with Career and Professional Development staff and faculty led him to take advantage of opportunities beyond the classroom and explore potential career paths.

“Their support helped me make sure the internship was properly connected to my mechanical engineering education and career goals,” he said.

Beginning his degree at Abington before moving on to University Park to complete his coursework has played an important role in his success.

“I chose Penn State Abington because it allows me to receive a Penn State education while beginning college in a smaller, welcoming campus environment,” Ogunleye said. "It's easier to become familiar with other students, develop relationships with professors, and make friends."

"The environment at Abington helped make my transition into college less overwhelming and gave me access to the opportunities and resources associated with Penn State,” he continued.

Now in his second year at Abington, Ogunleye encourages other students to look for opportunities as early as possible.

“Do not wait until your junior or senior year to pursue research, internships, leadership positions or technical projects,” he said. “One opportunity can change the direction of your college experience.”

Ogunleye's journey illustrates the Abington Experience in action by connecting students with the people, opportunities and real-world learning experiences that help them move from campus to career while learning and living in greater Philadelphia.

About Penn State Abington

Penn State Abington, home to nearly 3,000 students in Greater Philadelphia, offers four-year degrees, the first two years of any Penn State degree, and NCAA Division III athletics. The Abington Experience launches students from campus to career through internships, leadership development, academic travel, and faculty-led research and creative work. Penn State Abington — where the city's energy meets the best of the suburbs.