Q&A with Dwight Bowman
Q: Tell us about the process of landing an internship at Amazon.
A: I started by researching Amazon and then applying on their website. Once my application was approved, the company sent me an assessment to complete. This led to the opportunity of interviewing with a manager at Amazon for the chance at an internship. To prepare for the interview, I worked alongside business communication specialists in the college who helped me research the company and practice my interview techniques. Putting in the time and effort before the interview paid off because when it came time to interview, I felt confident and prepared.
Q: You were originally planning to relocate to Seattle for the internship. How has COVID-19 changed your experience?
A: My plans have changed in so many ways since COVID-19 began emerging this spring. Although I was looking forward to the chance to live and work in Seattle for the summer, I’m grateful that my internship was able to evolve to a virtual setting. Right now, I am working remotely with other WMU Amazon interns at Cornerstone Church. Even though the internship is now virtual, the training was still informative, and it has been a great experience. We were able to learn more about the history of the company, Amazon’s expectations of interns and detailed information on becoming certified to sell Amazon Web Services. The virtual training was engaging, and I am proud to be part of the Amazon internship team.
Q: What are you involved in outside of your studies?
A: Outside of school, I have served as a student employee in the Haworth College of Business, am a member of the Sales and Business Marketing Association and am active at my church where I play the alto saxophone on the music team.
Q: What has your greatest experience been at the Haworth College of Business?
A: My greatest experience at the Haworth College of Business has been meeting and collaborating with students from all walks of life. I was able to mentor first-year students and transfer students coming into the business college. It was a privilege to help guide these students; I enjoyed seeing them grow professionally.
Q: How do you think the college is helping you reach your goals?
A: The Haworth College of Business gives its students so much exposure to different companies and backs that up with all of the resources located within the college. I’ve also found many faculty and staff members who have been amazing mentors to me. They’ve allowed me to grow in my education and have guided me as I prepare for a future in the business world.
Q: What would you say is your proudest accomplishment during your time at the Haworth College of Business?
A: One of the things I’m most proud of is the work I’ve done as an active recruiter in the Sales and Business Marketing Association during the last four years. I’ve been able to recruit about 10 students each semester. I also think leading activities for first-year students and building relationships with new companies for our college’s business network has been very rewarding. I feel like I’ve helped attract more students to the business college, which has allowed me to grow in my business connections and networking. I have been able to make so many invaluable connections with students, alumni and business professionals.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I’ll keep it simple. After graduation I plan to continue my sales career and capitalize on my strengths as a people person with a progressive organization that fits my values.