Aerospace engineering student Mateus Lampe Holovaty nearly gave up on finding an internship. Then one opportunity changed the direction of his career.
An Uphill Search
Finding an internship as an international student in aerospace comes with a challenge many students never have to consider: Most companies in the field require ITAR clearance, which rules out a large share of opportunities before an application is ever submitted. Mateus Lampe Holovaty, an Aerospace Engineering major at Kent State University's College of Aeronautics and Engineering, knew that struggle firsthand. He had all but given up on finding an internship when the opportunity at Aviation Components Solutions (ACS) came along.
"I jumped right in, even if it was not something I was eager to do," Mateus said. "I thought that would be a good experience to have before I graduate."
Inside FAA-Certified Parts Operations
ACS designs and completes the necessary FAA documentation for PMA parts used in commercial aviation. As an operation assistant, Mateus's responsibilities were diverse. Much of his work involved sorting, packing, and labeling parts to FAA standards and keeping them properly stocked. He also took on tasks involving lasers and cryogenic nozzles with JC Carter, a sister company to ACS.
Along the way, he strengthened his communication skills and got his first taste of management, an entirely new experience for him. He also picked up technical writing skills, documenting reports and instructions for the laser equipment he worked with. One task in particular stood out: Assembling the cryogenic nozzles, which called on knowledge Mateus hadn't put to use in a while.
A Shift Toward Research
The internship did more than build his resume. It clarified what he wants out of his career.
"This internship helped me to understand better my career goals," Mateus said. "Now I know I want to focus more on research than operations."
That clarity is carrying him into the next stage of his education. Mateus recently completed his bachelor's degree and is now pursuing a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering at Kent State.
Advice for Fellow International Students
Mateus's advice for other international students chasing internships in their field comes straight from experience: Don't give up.
"No matter how many turn downs you receive or how many companies require ITAR, if it is meant to work, it will work," he said. "I never thought I would get this internship and I had given up, but in the end, it worked out."
He also points to the value of the connections he made along the way, colleagues at ACS he hopes to lean on for recommendations or opportunities down the road.
Mateus's path is a reminder that persistence can open doors that once looked closed. You too can turn a setback into momentum as you Dare Mighty Things.
Looking for an internship experience that can shape your future? Steven Nowinski, CAE's Employer Engagement and Internship Manager, is ready to help you discover and apply for opportunities that match your career aspirations. Learn more about Career Services and Professional Development at www.kent.edu/cae/careerservices.
