Ethan Lawson 
Reflection Paper 4 
06/27/2025 
ODU Summer 2025, CRN 35529 
Professor Teresa Duvall 
Southwest Virginia Community College 

Internship Reflection Paper 4 
Fourth 50 hours 

My IT internship has given me invaluable hands-on experience with seasoned professionals. Through real-world projects and collaboration, I have gained practical skills in troubleshooting, supporting software/hardware, common software tools, documentation, and communication. I have been able to deepen my understanding of how IT and Cybersecurity concepts and tools are implemented in real-world environments. This internship has helped me to develop not only my technical abilities but also soft skills such as communication, time management, and collaboration. Over the course of this internship, I have learned that soft skills are just as important, if not more, in a professional environment compared to the technical skills and knowledge needed. Most importantly, this position has affirmed my passion for working in a tech-based field and has cleared up any doubts about career aspirations.  

Some of the most significant things I have learned during my internship revolve around the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and the ability to think critically under the pressure of a new issue. Even though I had the technical knowledge to solve most issues I have been faced with, it was sometimes a struggle explaining it and the solution I found in simple terms. These communication skills are necessary to effectively assist most individuals I encounter on a daily basis. I have also become better at priortizing tasks in an efficient manner when met with multiple support requests or unexpected system issues across campus. Prioritization is crucial to remaining cool and ensuring business continuity effectively. Exposure to the documentation practices in a professional setting has taught me the importance of organized record keeping, which is essential for accountability and long-term system maintenance. Being introduced to all these things on the job has sharpened my decision-making and problem-solving abilities and has reinforced many things I have learned in class.  

In addition to work related tasks, my internship has shown me the importance of workplace culture and maintaining professional relationships. Being a part of a team gave me ample opportunities to observe and participate in the dynamics of a collaborative environment where mutual respect, reliability, and clear communication are essential. I have learned how to communicate with coworkers, supervisors, other staff, and clients in a professional manner. It has also been beneficial in learning to navigate the wide variety of work styles and personalities present at Southwest Virginia Community College. Experiencing interpersonal challenges and workplace politics has taught me the impact that a positive work environment has on productivity and job satisfaction. I have been blessed to mutually share experiences and guidance with my coworkers which have significantly contributed to my growth. Overall, these soft/non-technical aspects of this role are just as valuable as the technical skills I have developed here and in the classroom. With these experiences I can paint a more complete picture of what it means to strive in a technical field.  

Overall, this internship has been a truly transformative experience that has strengthened my technical foundation and helped me grow personally and professionally. From gaining hands-on experience with troubleshooting and IT tools to improving my communication, time management, and collaboration skills, I now have a more realistic understanding of what role like this one expects from me. This is a field that requires consistent growth and collaboration. This internship has completely removed any doubts about my career path and prepared me to confidently take the next step in my professional journey.