Very good internship experience. They had a good program for interns that helped educate and prepare you for the position.
What I wish was different
I felt like sometimes I would not have enough work to do as the work was not difficult.
Advice
Be clear about your skills and what you are able to do so you are placed on a good team.
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Software Engineering Intern
May - August 2019 • Des Moines, IA
What I liked
It was a joy to get to know my team and all the people that worked with me. I was doing practical things that are very much similar to what a full time job would look like, so it was good experience.
What I wish was different
There were a few intern projects that I got assigned to that seemed a little useless, but still a good learning experience and a good way to get to know some of the other interns.
Advice
Just make sure to ask questions and get to know a lot of people. Everyone is very willing to help and get to know you.
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Investment Operations Accounting
May - December 2019 • Des Moines, IA
What I liked
Great internship with that provides real world full time day to day work and experience.
What I wish was different
I wish I would have had more time to network. As a co-op intern I was basically a full time employee and that made my schedule very hectic
Advice
Get in early and leave late. It makes an impression when you take the time to go the extra mile. This also gives you the time to network outside of your normal workload.
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IT Intern
May - August 2019 • Des Moines, IA
What I liked
Working on real company projects
What I wish was different
Longer decision period for return offer
Advice
Be able/excited to learn new skills for this position
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Stock Services Intern
May - August 2019 • Des Moines, IA
What I liked
I loved how the campus made me feel. You have the opportunity to do real work and it feels like you’re making a difference and contributing.
What I wish was different
I wish I had the chance to see my projects to the end. I think that for me, the internship ended all too soon.
Advice
NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. So many people at Principal have an open-door policy and genuinely want to talk with you. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
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Stock Services Intern
May - August 2019 • Des Moines, IA
What I liked
I loved being in Des Moines!! It was such a great city. Principal’s headquarters was also HUGE. There was always something going on and there were always different space to work. Everyone was very welcoming, friendly and passionate about their work. I had the opportunity to meet with the CEO among other high level executives and I learned so much about my career path from them which has helped me today.
What I wish was different
Much of the intern events were happy hours. As someone who isn’t legally 21, I wasn’t able to attend and get the full experience. Other than that, it was a really great experience.
Advice
NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK! Meet as many people as you can and get your story out there. I used to be so afraid of networking but after this internship, I’ve gained more confidence in my networking skills. With Principal’s open door policy, you have the opportunity to meet with pretty much ANYONE.
