By: Kendra Pinckney
My internship started with a LinkedIn job listing, a revised resume, and curiosity about what data analytics looked like beyond textbooks and homework assignments. My name is Kendra Pinckney, and I graduated from Binghamton University this past May with a B.A. in Statistics and a minor in Digital and Data Studies. This summer, I had the opportunity to intern at Constellation Brands, Inc as an Analytics Intern in Rochester, NY. This fall, I’ll be heading back to Binghamton to begin my Master’s in Data Analytics, continuing to build on everything I’ve learned so far.
Going into my senior year, I knew how important it was to start searching for professional opportunities as soon as possible. I began applying early in the fall semester and came across Constellation Brands, a local company I recognized as one of the biggest names in the beverage alcohol industry, producing iconic brands like Corona and Modelo. After weeks of refining my resume, performing mock interviews, and navigating the application process with the Fleishman Career Center, I was thrilled to accept an offer in November 2024.
Isabella Rey, Sales Finance Intern
Kendra Pinckney, Analytics Intern
Austin Sawyer, Security Data Analyst
Ben Weingart, Global Accounting Intern
One of the key reasons I felt confident going into this experience was the capstone research I performed through Binghamton’s Digital and Data Studies department. Even though this research was centered in a different industry, the project gave me hands-on experience with exploratory analysis, data visualization, and storytelling, eventually translating to my work as an intern. That exposure to real-life research helped me excel in my interview.
At Constellation, my responsibilities ranged from working with dashboards in PowerBI and using SQL to support financial reporting processes. Additionally, for my final internship project, I researched consumer insights and developed a business proposal grounded in data. This helped me gain exposure to large-scale data systems and learn how different departments use data to make strategic decisions.
Beyond the technical work, one of the most valuable parts of my internship was the professional environment itself. I learned the ins and outs of effective workplace communication, how to be agile, and collaboration across teams, many of which were located across the country. Despite working in-person in the Rochester office, I collaborated virtually with teams based throughout the U.S., which taught me how to adapt to remote work dynamics and maintain clear communication across time zones.
But if you ask me what my favorite part of the experience was, it would hands down be the people. My manager and mentor were incredible. They encouraged me, challenged me, and made sure I always felt supported. And the other interns? They made every workday more enjoyable, whether we were working side by side, playing the LinkedIn games together every morning, or catching up over lunch.
Something I didn’t expect to value as much as I did was everything outside of the job description: grabbing lunch with other interns, chatting with coworkers by the coffee machine and in the elevator, and attending social events and coffee chats with executives and professionals. Those conversations taught me just as much as my official projects did, educating me about the company’s culture, different career paths, and what really matters to me in an employer.
This internship also gave me a lot of clarity about what I want moving forward. I have a better idea of which industries and roles excite me, and I’m more motivated than ever to keep learning. This can be through obtaining certifications, new tools, or additional coursework in my master’s program. I’m also leaving with a network of incredible people, both peers and professionals, who I genuinely look up to.
For students looking for internships:
- You can never start too early! Don’t wait until spring to start your search.
- Use your resources! The career center helped me with my resume, cover letters, interview prep, and even navigating multiple offers.
- Ask questions! Whether you’re speaking to executives or fellow interns, curiosity goes a long way. No one knows you care until you show that you do.
- Immerse yourself in research and coursework! My Digital and Data Studies capstone gave me an edge during interview processes and other projects throughout my internship.
- One thing I wish I could go back and tell myself: Your personality and mindset matter just as much, if not more, than your technical skills. Being open to learning, staying positive, and being authentic can make all the difference. Rejection isn’t always a reflection of your ability; it might just mean a better fit is out there for you.
I’m incredibly grateful for this experience and everything I learned technically, professionally, and personally. Thank you to Constellation Brands and Binghamton University’s faculty and Career Center for helping me prepare for this journey. If you’re a student reading this and wondering whether to apply to that internship, do it! You never know where that one application can take you.
