Student Spotlight: Daniel Richardson

Daniel Richardson, a Paper Science and Engineering major, spent a semester in Covington, Va. as a Process Engineering Intern for WestRock. Process Engineers, also known as Chemical Engineers, are typically responsible for developing, designing and modifying processes for purchasing, installing and production within a plant.

How did this internship experience impact you?

My internship shaped me to be a better critical thinker. It shifted my knowledge to understand more about tracking the savings within a system.

What did you learn about yourself during your experience?

I learned that I need to be more independent within a working environment. Working in groups is great, but I learned to “hold my own” within an environment when people depended on me.

How did this opportunity enhance your experience as a College of Natural Resources student?

This internship opportunity gave me valuable experience that I could take back into the classroom. It allowed me to get a head start on understanding key concepts discussed in the classroom.

Why was participating in this internship important to you?

This experience was important to me because it allowed me to understand what my role would be as an entry-level engineer and the expectations associated with it.

What did you enjoy most about your experience?

I really enjoyed the opportunity to become a better learner within a real-life scenario. I was very thankful for my responsibilities and the WestRock management really made me feel appreciated and welcome as part of their team.

What did you find most challenging about your experience?

The most challenging part about my experience was the ability to adapt and meet everyone that I would be working with in such a huge manufacturing facility.

What do you enjoy most about being a College of Natural Resources student?

The small family-like environment; I am able to form valuable and deeper relationships with people within the department.