Nick Macchi '22

1) What are some skills/competencies (NACE) that you developed during your internship?

• Independent Research Skills: I definitely gained skills as an independent researcher. I not only used news articles, professional journals, and internet sources, but I was able to talk to experts and get their take and really put together original information.

• Study Skills: While I was not actually studying, my work was very independent. I had to stay focused and keep working in order to cover all the information I needed to, without an impending deadline. I had to stay self motivated, and definitely got better at it.

2) How does this experience connect to your future career goals?

Data is not going anywhere, and our reliance on digital connectivity is only growing. No matter what professional career I decide to pursue, I am certain that data will be involved. Having an understanding of how data works, where it is stored, how it can be optimized, etc. will be a great asset. Also, I am interesting in pursuing a law degree, and independent research skills will certainly be infinitely helpful should I pursue that.

3) What advice would you give to other Holy Cross students?

I never thought about going into the data center industry before this internship, and I know I’m never going to go into it now that it’s over. However, it was a really good learning experience, and I will definitely be using the skills and knowledge I gained in the future. Take any internship you can get -- make the most out of it, I guarantee you learn something.