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Top 5 Ways to Earn an Internship that Turns Into a Job

Take it from Tymera: You can get an internship, and you can turn that internship into a job.

Tymera started like any other student; she didn’t know how to get an internship, but she got involved at UCA.

, “When I first stepped on campus, I was a naive girl with no idea what life had in store for me. Through every lesson, challenge, and triumph in my collegiate journey, I’ve grown into a stronger, wiser, and more resilient woman.”

Opportunities led to more opportunities. As a freshman, she became a COB Student Ambassador, where she served and grew as a leader. She was elected to SGA for a couple of years and participated in the and Women of Excellence. In her junior year, she became a student worker for Career Services, and soon, she learned how important internships are. That’s when she practiced interviewing, got connections from her mentors, and scored her internship.

In the summer between her junior and senior years, Tymera served as a Client Experience Intern at ,a Little Rock-based SaaS company specializing in school-community communication. This company was the perfect blend of her major in marketing and her minor in computer information systems. She was assigned to their Client Success division, where she learned to support more than 2,000 shared client accounts. Her responsibilities included content migration, website design improvements, data accuracy updates, and guiding clients through technical processes.

Using what she had learned in class projects, as a student worker, and as a campus leader, Tymera excelled at Apptegy. Her most significant contribution came when she independently identified a gap in an existing client workflow and took complete ownership of redesigning it.Working on behalf of the client, Tymera led a multiphase project, coordinated team meetings, created instructional recordings and strategically delegated tasks, resulting in restored client trust and improved overall client sentiment. The project drew high praise from Apptegy’s Vice President of Client Experience Ashley Coleman, who described Tymera as “a natural leader” who exemplified initiative, drive and originality.

Tymera credits her growth to Apptegy’s collaborative culture and her mentor and says the experience entirely transformed her professional outlook. She said, “I learned that productivity alone is not enough – true impact comes from connecting with others and building trust.”

Impressed by her performance, Apptegy offered Tymera a full-time position to start upon her graduation.

Before Tymera graduated in May and started her job at Apptegy, she was nominated by COB’s Dr. Tom Snyder and was honored as the UCA Internships and Cooperative Education 2025-26 “Intern of the Year”.


Every major in the UCA College of Business allows and encourages students to pursue internships for academic credit to gain real-world career experiences before graduation. Whether you earn credit for your major or not, you can and should do as many internships as possible. But how does someone find an internship?

TOP 5 WAYS TO LAND AN INTERNSHIP

  1. Check out UCA Career Services.
    They offer you advice, tools, resume review, and many other services that can help you find and get an internship.
    Visit their websiteto look at what they offer, or make an appointment: call 501.450.3250 or email bears4hire@uca.edu.
  2. Join HandShake.
    HandShake is a tool like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or GlassDoor – except you get their Premium account FREE as a student, and you get to keep it after you graduate. After you create your account, HandShake will email you the types of internships and jobs that fit your interests and education, so you don’t have to search for them.
  3. Make sure you have an updated resume.
    Career Services will review your resume if you need help.
    Here’s a to get started.
  4. Attend a Career Fair.
    Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, this is the best place to network with employers when they’re looking to hire somebody.
    Take copies of your resume to share, and dress for the job you want. Did you know you can get a free interview outfit from UCA each year?
  5. Ask your Professors!
    Your business professors and mentors have connections in the business community, and they often know about unlisted jobs.
    They can also give you recommendations to help you earn an internship or job.

Take it from Tymera! You can do this.

What’s the worst thing that can happen – hearing “No”?
Try those Top 5 Ways! If you don’t put yourself out there and apply, employers won’t have the opportunity to say “YES” to you.
Final Tip from Tymera’s journey: getting involved and volunteering gives you great things to list on your resume before you have experience at jobs or internships to list.

Four Students Represent COB in Miss UCA 2026 Pageant

14 UCA students pose in evening gowns as they compete in the Miss UCA 2026 Scholarship CompetitonHeld on Sunday, November 16, 2025, the Miss University of Central Ƶ Scholarship Competition showcased the talent, intelligence, and leadership of remarkable UCA students. The College of Business was proudly represented by four outstanding women who not only participated but also earned recognition for their efforts and excellence. We are proud of you all!

Congratulations to:
– : Graduate Student in Accountancy and Data Analytics, COB Student Ambassador, Awarded Academic Achievement Award
– : Accounting Major, Awarded Bear Spirit Award
– Kierra Collier: Marketing Major, COB Student Ambassador
– : Information Systems Major, Awarded Third Runner Up, Producers Award, Miss Congeniality, Overall Evening Gown Award, and People’s Choice Award

Student Success Spotlight: Da’Mya Brittian

Senior Da’Mya Brittian, Marketing major with a minor in Computer Information Systems

How are you involved at UCA?

I work at the Veterans & Military Resource Center, and I am in the Student Veterans of America. I am able to work here and join SVA due to the courage of my parents. They both served in the military, and this is my way to show appreciation and do my part without enlisting.

I was “Most Outstanding Freshman” in the UCA Bear Marching Band for color guard. I also was “Dean for a Day” last semester, one of the few students selected to meet with their College Dean as well as the Provost.

What drew you to the business industry?

Every time I see an advertisement, I analyze every aspect of it – why they chose the colors they are using, why that font, how there is blank space on one side, and how I could make it better. This constant analysis made me want to pursue marketing to better understand and improve all aspects related to marketing for wherever I end up working.

Tell us about your experience outside the classroom that will help your career.

Research
I learned about the opportunities and joy that arise from taking the path of doing research. I did not know much about how to take this path, but presenting at theAtlantic Marketing Association conferencein September increased my interest. Dr. Jihoon Jhang and I presented “The Effect of AI Disclosure on Donation Intentions.”The study examined how AI disclosure influences donation intentions. It utilized a 2×2 between-subjects design, investigating whether revealing the use of AI and whether the girl in the photo was smiling or frowning impacted people’s willingness to donate.

Internship
I learned about the internship through Handshake. I chose my internship because it was related to my field and allowed me to view other aspects of the company and paths that are not related to my major directly. I was able to spend a week with each different sector of the company and broaden my knowledge of what it takes to run a business.

Service
I have also volunteered at the Ƶ Food Bank often, and it has helped me with soft skills. I talk to strangers while I volunteer, and it helps with networking. It helps me also be grateful for the position I am in and reminds me how important it is to give back.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

After I graduate in December 2024, I plan to go into the field of marketing and use the knowledge from my degree to leverage my application above others.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?

Network with your professors. Going to my professors during their office hours or talking to them in the hallways has helped them remember me and get to know me better. In turn, they can be a reference for you or you can know them better and feel comfortable asking questions in class. That all together helps not only you and the professor, but also other students who might follow your lead.

Dr. Joe Cangelosi Shares His 35+ Years of Experience Through Teaching & Research

Dr. Joe Cangelosi, Professor of Marketing, shares about his research, advice for students, and what brings him the most enjoyment as a Professor.


Why did you choose marketing?
I am a market researcher by trade, being in the MR industry for 5 years before going back to get a doctorate in marketing, so I could be a university professor.

What have you studied in your research?
I have studied the Marketing & Distribution of Preventive Health Care (PHC) information. I have been publishing in the area for 20+ years, finding new niches to focus my efforts. I have learned the demographics, activities, behaviors, social media tendencies of PHC consumers, across generational cohorts. I’m always looking for another publication opportunity in a good health care marketing journal.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?
1. Work hard in school so you can determine what your special gifts are.
2. Don’t be overburdened with hours on a job while in school; work the hours necessary to survive; don’t be buying new cell phones or a new car or buying too much of anything; just get through school with some good grades so you have the skills and grades to be competitive in the job market once you graduate. Students should heed my advice based on my 35+ years of teaching, research and consulting; I have a good feel for what it takes for students to succeed. [Read more…]

Alumni Spotlight: Jessica Kao

In April 2023, Dr. Alexander Chen visited alumnus Jessica Kao (MIS 2019) in Taipei during his travels overseas. He sent an update on his visit with Jessica for COB’s Alumni Spotlight column.


Dr. Chen with Jessica Kao

Jessica Kao is an exceptional alumnus of the Management Information Systems (MIS)* department at the University of Central Ƶ (UCA). Since January 2020, she has been working for Qualcomm Semiconductor Inc. in Taipei, where she has demonstrated her commitment to her work and the skills she developed during her studies at UCA.

As part of her role at Qualcomm, Jessica is responsible for identifying key inefficiencies and issues across different projects. She develops user guides and training materials and conducts training sessions for both internal and external clients. She collaborates with multinational teams to develop and test various programs and projects. Additionally, she leverages her system analysis skills to work on supply chain operation and procurement systems for clients across APAC, the Americas, and Europe.

Jessica credits her success in the professional world to the rigorous training she received from UCA’s outstanding faculty members, particularly those in the *, Marketing, and Management departments. She believes the College of Business at UCA provided her with a balanced, practical, and valuable education, which equipped her with the necessary tools to excel in her field.

Working alongside colleagues who mostly hold master’s degrees from prestigious universities in Taiwan and the United States, Jessica’s exceptional performance and professionalism have earned her the respect and trust of her teammates. She has also received substantial raises for her outstanding achievements. To learn more about Jessica’s achievements, check out on LinkedIn.


* When Jessica graduated in 2019, the department and program were named Management Information Systems; in 2021, the name was changed to Computer Information Systems & Analytics to reflect updates to the program.

Job • Marketing Associate • Deadline: July 31

Role Description

Created in 2021, out of necessity for our services, Thrive is a fundraising and marketing firm that provides essential resources to world-class nonprofits to help them find, acquire and retain ideal donors.
The nonprofit industry is now facing deep cuts into their resources while simultaneously facing an increase in the demand for their services due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As they are being asked to do more with less funds and reduced staff, they’re trying to learn from historical data on how to navigate the impending crisis. They are trying to figure out how philanthropy can help.
Thrive is hiring for entry level candidates looking to gain experience in: management, marketing, customer service, advertising / public relations, sales and event management. We have an aggressive expansion plan laid out and are looking to find a person who would love to work in a fun, competitive, positive-minded environment.

[Read more…]

Student Profile: Madison Bryant

Marketing major Maddie Bryant welcomes incoming freshmen to campus as a member of the Student Orientation Staff (SOS).

Madison Bryant| Marketing major | Class of 2025

What drew you to business?

I took a marketing class my senior year of high school. I did really well in there and enjoyed it. After I started college, I realized I didn’t want to be a doctor, and I decided marketing was the right path for me.

What has been useful to you in the College of Business and why?

– the faculty, curriculum, and supportive learning environment
– the events and guest speakers
– the facilities and technology
– an internships
– networking opportunities with prospective employers and industry experts

All of those are helpful because they help you gain connections and ultimately get a job after graduation. Gaining connections is so important because you never know who you will meet and how they will impact you.

My advisor Emma Allen has been wonderful! She wants me to succeed and is always there to even just listen if I have a problem. She gives great advice on classes I need to take and the route I should take. She remembers who I am when I see her around and she is overall just a wonderful person to be around.

What experience has been meaningful for you?

The experience in my Intro to Business class has been the most meaningful to me so far. Throughout the semester each week, we would learn about a different major within the COB. It really helped to shine light on areas I didn’t know existed. It showed me careers I would have never even thought about. This class was very helpful and an experience I feel you don’t get in other colleges. It can be hard to know what you want to do without having knowledge of all your options, so this helped me clarify what I wanted to do.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?

I would advise students to go to tutoring for classes where that’s available. The tutors in the COB[College of Business] are wonderful. I always feel more confident and ready for my test after I visit them.

I would definitely recommend the COB to students because there are so many different paths you can take here. There are lots of majors to pick from in the COB and even certifications you can get. The faculty is very helpful here and is happy to answer any questions you may have. The COB shares internship opportunities and has a few RSOs [student organizations] you can join.

The Best of College of Business: 2021-2022

The UCA College of Business delivers experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact their communities. We are committed to a culture of excellence across all programs, activities, and events, with a focus on action-based learning and student success and retention.

Despite disruptions due to COVID during our last academic year, our students and alumni have overcome obstacles and risen as leaders. Several COB alumni were honored for their efforts in their communities and workplaces while our students volunteered at food pantries, prepared free tax returns for low-income Arkansans, and earned awards.

This annual review gives a brief look at this year’s student, alumni, and faculty success as well as evidence of our commitment to engaged learning.

If you have a story of success or accomplishment from 2021-2022 to add to this list, or anytime in the future, pleasesendit to US.

Sincerely,
Michael Hargis
Dean, UCA College of Business



NEW & NOTEWORTHY

To address the changing business environment,COB expanded to add three new Applied Data Analytics programs:
– a Bachelor of Science
– a Master of Science
– and a technical certificate.

COB welcomed new Marketing & Management Department Chair,Dr. Tracy A. Suter, who began his role at the start of the spring semester.

Dr. Suter has taught and led at 5 institutions over the past 25 years; has authored many academic articles and textbooks and served in other administrative capacities; most extensive experience was as a 15-year faculty member at Oklahoma State University.

Learn moreabout his credentials, career, and interests.

COB Student Ambassadorsengage, connect, and serve as representatives for our college.Twenty-one studentstook on the task of serving as COB’s first ever group of ambassadors.

They have talked with incoming students, received swag and headshots, and experienced unique development opportunities available only to ambassadors.


AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Economics student Caleb Vines won the Student Research Award at the 2022 Society of Business, Industry, and Economics (SOBIE) conference.

Several other COB faculty and students across all disciplines also presented papers at the SOBIE and International Academy of Business Disciplines (IABD) conferences this spring. MORE

COB named its Outstanding Students who were chosen because they combined exemplary academic performance with internships, volunteerism, professional development, experiential education, and participation in clubs and other important experiences.

Daisy Martinez Carranza took home the top honor of COB’s 2022 Outstanding Student.READ MORE

䴡’sMaster of Business Administration (MBA)program was named to thePrograms and University HQ’sPrograms list.

Associate Professor of economics andACRE ScholarJeremy Horpedahl received the Public Choice’sDuncan Black Prizefor the best article contributed by a senior scholar.

Karen Shaw, a member of the COB Board of Advisors, was named 2021CFO of the Yearby Ƶ Business.

Shaw was a leader even during her UCA days, as a charter member of Beta Alpha Psi, but her leadership development didn’t stop there.Learn moreabout Karen’s leadership as a business and community leader.

Several COB alumni, including(辱ٳܰ),, andwere named as rising business and community leaders by Ƶ Business.


Three teams representing UCA’s MBA program placed among the top 100 performers in a worldwide business simulation competition called GLO-BUS. Nearly 2,000 teams from 99 colleges and universities competed.


Congratulations to COB’sTheta Lambda Chapterwho earned first place at the 2022 Beta Alpha Psi regional conference competitions in the category of Best Practices in the Art of Engagement and will compete at the conference in Orlando this summer. The chapter also earned a second-place win for Best Practices.MORE

In addition, UCA’s chapter of Beta Alpha Psi achieved superior status for 2021-2022 from the national chapter. To be a superior chapter, the registered student organization met the following requirements:

  • Average membercompleted at least 32 hours of service and professional development (at least 12 each)
    >265 hours of professional development
    >555 hours of service
  • Chapter completed at least 8 reaching-out activities including attending conferences; competing in best practices and project run-with-it; alumni activities’ multi-chapter events; and promoting careers in accounting, finance, information systems, and/or data analytics.

Congratulations to ourstudents and toConnie McKnightԻAshley Phillips, our tireless faculty advisors, for another year of superior status!


CAREER DEVELOPMENT & SERVICE LEARNING

More than 65 volunteers and students from UCA’s Biz@Bear Residential College collected over $1650 worth of personal care donations for children in Ƶ foster care.

This event ended an academic year with more than 1800 student engagement hours led by Academic Director, Dr. Louisa Moseley; over 200 of those were service hours.MORE

Accounting Professor Ashley Phillips was awarded the Peter J. Mehl Service-Learning Faculty of the Year Award for her work with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Under her leadership, studentsvolunteered approximately 420 hoursto return more than $324,000 of taxpayer money to the community through the preparation of over 250 tax returns for low-income taxpayers in the region.

Sixteen business professionals connected with COB students at the annualWomen in Business Sixteen business professionals connected with COB students at the annualWomen in Business luncheonfor which a panel and table leaders shared the “Top 5 Things Women in Business Need to Know.”

hosted a COB Escape Room of intricate puzzles for students to solve. To “escape,” participants applied tips for create an effective resume.READ MORE

In ’21 & ’22, COB and Acxiom partnered to provide a four-day InformationTechnology (IT) Careers Campfor high school students.

During the camp, studentsstayed on UCA’s campus, were mentored by industry experts, and participated in exercises in programming, cybersecurity, robotics, 3D modeling, and 3D laser printing.

Congratulations to all of our graduates in 2021-2022!



If you have a story of success or accomplishment from 2021-2022 to add to this list, pleasesendit to the UCA College of Business.

For year-round news andupdatesfrom the UCA College of Business, make sure to visit.

UCA College of Business Names New Department Chair

(Conway, Ark.) – The University of Central Ƶ (UCA) College of Business has named Dr. Tracy A. Suter as the new Chair for the Department of Marketing and Management. Dr. Suter began his role at the start of the spring semester.

As Department Chair, Dr. Suter will collaborate with the faculty and supervise department activities that support the college’s mission to provide an innovative and relevant curriculum combined with hands-on student experiences in the business community. He will also teach creativity and innovation courses from a marketing point of view and continue his research interests in creative problem-solving and business innovation.

Dean Michael Hargis welcomed Suter to the College of Business saying, “Tracy is innovative, engaging, and committed to student and faculty success. He also has a long track record of success as a leader in higher education. I look forward to Tracy’s contributions to the development and continuous improvement of our college’s programs.”

Suter, originally from Russellville, brings a wealth of expertise from his 25-year academic career as he assumes the role of department chair. In addition to teaching, Dr. Suter has authored many academic articles and textbooks and served in other administrative capacities. His most extensive experience was as a 15-year faculty member at Oklahoma State University.

“As a first-generation college student from the great state of Ƶ, I do not take my opportunity or responsibility lightly to nurture and develop the next generation of leaders, thinkers and doers,” said Dr. Suter. “I look forward to working with my departmental and college colleagues in helping students grow and succeed here at UCA.”

Suter earned his Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Business Administration degrees from the University of Ƶ. Before teaching, he worked as a marketing and analysis specialist at an aviation company.

Established in 1969, the UCA College of Business offers 20 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates to equip current and future business professionals to successfully and ethically meet the changing business environment. The AACSB-accredited program offers a thorough business education as well as opportunities for hands-on experience and industry networking.

COB Student Intern Earns AR BCBS Scholarship

UCA College of Business student, Daisy Martinez Carranza, is this year’s $5,000 academic scholarship winner for the Ƶ Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) 2021 Summer Internship Program. Carranza served as a Group Marketing and Member Engagement intern, and over the course of ten weeks, she gained real-world experience by working closely with their managers and teams, attending department meetings, participating in special projects, and sharing her questions and ideas.

Crediting knowledge gained in classes and valuable experience during her internship, Carranza said, “this is as much a win for me as it is for my advisors and mentors here at UCA.”

To earn the award, Carranza not only did exceptional work during her internship but also presented a final project to top BCBS executives. She was chosen as a finalist and then the winner of the $5000 scholarship for her senior year at UCA. Please join us in congratulating Daisy Martinez Carranza on this significant achievement.