Empowering the Future: FSU Facilities IT Interns

02/28/2025

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Internships serve as an invaluable bridge between classroom learning and professional experience, especially in fields as dynamic as Information Technology (IT). For students at Florida State University, the IT internship program at FSU Facilities offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn the basics of IT systems that keep the campus running smoothly.

FSU is a sprawling campus with numerous buildings, offices, classrooms, and research facilities. Behind the scenes, the Facilities department plays a crucial role in maintaining these various spaces. What many don’t realize is that a robust IT system is integral to the department’s functions. From responding to service requests to troubleshooting technical issues, the IT team at FSU Facilities ensures that technology supports the daily operations of the entire university.

For students pursuing degrees related to IT, the FSU Facilities internship program provides an opportunity to gain insight into how IT systems and infrastructure are maintained in a large institution. The experience is not just theory—interns are actively involved in tasks that directly impact campus operations, learning real-world skills that will benefit them in their careers.

The IT internship at FSU Facilities is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of IT systems and support. There are currently two interns; Jillian Bice and Tyler Leturmy Brown who both serve as Help Desk Interns.

“Being in this role, I’ve learned how Facilities is the backbone of FSU’s campus and how it runs things behind the scenes,” said Bice, a junior majoring in computer science.

One of the most valuable aspects of the FSU Facilities IT internship is the mentorship that students receive from IT professionals. Interns are paired with experienced team members who guide them through day-to-day tasks, answer questions, and offer feedback on their work. This mentorship helps interns gain confidence in their abilities and fosters professional growth.

“Having Jillian and Tyler on our team has been a fantastic experience. They've brought fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a strong willingness to learn. It'll be great to see them grow in their roles and begin to make a real impact on our projects,” said Lisa Smith, Help Desk Support Assistant for Facilities IT who helps supervise the interns.

As the interns grow more comfortable in their new role, they’ve begun taking on a variety of responsibilities. This includes resolving technical issues through troubleshooting, computer imaging, taking calls with the service center, getting new users set-up, and more.

“These two have done a fantastic job so far. They've come with an eager attitude to learn and jump in when needed. They've learned a lot in the last few weeks, and I see them in high places down the road," said Charles Roop.

The IT internship at FSU Facilities is more than just a stepping stone - it's an opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful career in Information Technology. By learning the basics of system administration, network support, technical troubleshooting, and more, interns gain the skills necessary to thrive in any IT environment.