How did you learn about GM's summer intern program?
In high school I attended an advanced math/science/technology center and my physics instructor suggested that I apply for an internship at GM. This is my third summer as an intern and I'm still excited about working here.

Was there an application process?
Every year I go through an interview process that includes submitting a resume and transcript. GM normally notifies interns in April.

How did you find housing?
I'm local, so I'm living at home for the summer.

What were you looking for in an internship?
I've always wanted a challenging assignment. It's great to work with knowledgeable colleagues in an environment that thrives on creativity. It's quite an experience to be in a department where almost everyone has a Ph.D. Also, GM has the technology, the people, and the resources to create innovative products -- that certainly remains a priority for me.

What project are you working on?
This year I'm using stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) to predict chemical properties of systems dealing with materials of technological interest. To do SMLR, we use a statistical software program. I gather information on elemental properties to enter into the spreadsheet and then perform the regressions.

I'm attempting to come up with interesting new variables and combinations to advance this area of research. Currently information is sparse, which increases the importance of this project. We'd like to be the first to publish results.

The bulk of the project involves math and understanding how the regression operates. When you're conducting a trial, the math needs to be second nature to easily interpret the results. Then you need a firm grasp of the chemical and elemental properties to "sell" the data to colleagues.

What is your work life like?
I come in at 6 or 6:30 am and begin the day scouring the literature. For this project, keeping abreast of work in the field is crucial. I run trials, examine the data, and analyze it. If the results aren't consistent with theory, I'll revamp that approach and consider another perspective. Consulting with others in the lab is a prime source of information.

Interns are also given the chance to participate in "field trips" to other GM locations, like the Milford Proving Grounds and Design Center. That gives us an idea of the diversity of people and projects at GM. You never lose sight of how your work is being applied or its importance to the corporation.

How will this work contribute to your education and career plans?
It has solidified my interest in the sciences and assured me that engineering is the field in my future. I've learned to draw from the strengths of others, while contributing to the overall goal. My research has given me a broad perspective on what education means. From my observations, a college degree doesn't dictate your position on the job. Everyone works collaboratively on a project and, in the end, a chemical engineer may be required to understand an electrical engineer's role - or vice versa.

What do you like most about working at R&D?
The excellent technology, the broad range of areas explored, the availability of experts on every topic, both inside and outside the automotive industry. The researchers treat interns as equals. Even when I was a high school student, they wanted to hear my ideas and opinions. So I'm actually making a difference, thinking and contributing to the project at large.

What do you like least about working at R&D?
I don't like leaving at the end of the summer.

How do you like Warren and the metro Detroit area?
There is no better place for a car buff!

What do you do for fun?
I'm taking two summer engineering classes, but I wouldn't label those as casual fun. I swim for enjoyment and to remain in shape for the competitive season. Some organizations I'm involved in include the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers, and Theta Tau, a professional engineering fraternity. And like most college students, I can never turn down a good time with my friends.

Will you be back next summer?
I'd like to come back, even if the project changes.

Would you consider working full-time at GM Research?
Absolutely. Drive-by-wire is an electrical engineer's dream.

Did you have a previous interest in the automotive industry?
Yes, although I didn't see myself doing it for a living. One of my friends and I built up a '69 Beetle, so my passion for cars has always been present. Research didn't cross my mind, but now it's a definite consideration. I'm like a kid in a toy store here, but at GM the toys are on a far larger scale.