2024-08-19: Summer Data & Analytics Summer Internship at PRA Group, Inc.

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Embarking on an internship is often a transformative experience, and my journey has been no exception. Over the past few months, I've had the opportunity to dive deep into the intricate world of data science, corporate compliance, and policy-making, all while gaining a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving expectations of Gen Z in the workplace. Here’s a glimpse into what my internship has entailed and the valuable lessons I've learned along the way.

Crafting Policies for a PRAGroup

One of the primary responsibilities I undertook during my internship was the development of policies to regulate and audit external tools and internal programs. In an era where digital tools are at the heart of every organization, ensuring that these tools align with both legal requirements and company standards is crucial. My role involved not just policy creation but also the development of templates and procedures that would make the implementation of these policies seamless across the organization.

This task required a deep understanding of federal, state, and local laws, as well as company-specific guidelines. It was a learning curve that taught me the importance of meticulous research, collaboration with various teams, and the ability to anticipate potential compliance issues before they arise.

Standardizing Data Science Reports

Another significant project I worked on was the standardization of templates for various stages of data science project reports. These included Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) reports, model selection reports, and model development reports. The goal was to create a set of standardized templates that could be used across the organization, making it easier for auditing teams to assess compliance with both legal and company policies.

This project was particularly challenging as it involved extensive research to determine what should be included in each report, followed by consultations with various teams to reach a common consensus. The experience taught me the importance of balancing technical detail with clarity and consistency, ensuring that the final templates would be both comprehensive and user-friendly.

Understanding Gen Z's Expectations

In addition to my work on compliance and data science, I also explored the expectations of Gen Z in the workplace. As the newest generation entering the workforce, Gen Z brings unique perspectives and demands when it comes to technology, diversity, and work-life balance. My project involved researching these expectations and suggesting ways the company could adapt to meet them.

This aspect of my internship was particularly enlightening, as it allowed me to delve into the human side of corporate strategy. Understanding the values and priorities of my generation not only helped me contribute to the company’s strategy but also gave me a better understanding of the future workforce’s needs.

Suggesting Improvements: The 30, 60, 90-Day Plan

Finally, I worked on a project focused on understanding the company’s work processes and suggesting improvements. This involved developing a 30, 60, 90-day plan, which provided a structured approach to integrating changes related to technology, diversity, and overall workflow enhancements.

The project was a practical exercise in strategic thinking, as it required me to identify pain points, propose actionable solutions, and map out a clear plan for implementation. This experience has undoubtedly sharpened my problem-solving skills and reinforced the importance of continuous improvement in the corporate world.

Conclusion: A Holistic Learning Experience

My internship at PRA Group was an invaluable and transformative experience that broadened my technical expertise and deepened my understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of financial services. Working on projects that focused on standardizing data science practices and developing robust compliance frameworks gave me unique insights into the critical role of technology in shaping the future of the industry. As I move forward, I am eager to continue contributing to the development of innovative solutions that enhance both efficiency and compliance within the sector, leveraging the knowledge and skills I gained during this internship.

It was a privilege to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my manager, Dennis Lite, for his unwavering support and guidance throughout my time at PRA Group. I am also deeply grateful to my mentors, Yesim and Xin, whose expertise and encouragement were instrumental in my professional growth. A special thank you to Vice President Sepideh for her visionary leadership, which inspired me to think creatively and push the boundaries of what is possible.

I am also immensely thankful to the HR team—Parker Liza, Dianna Lanchester, and Jenn—for their excellent support throughout my internship. Additionally, I would like to acknowledge my colleague, Aseem, for his collaboration and camaraderie, which made the experience all the more enriching.

Finally, I want to express my sincere gratitude to PRA Group for providing me with this incredible opportunity. The knowledge and experience I gained here will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for my future endeavors, and I am excited to continue exploring new avenues of innovation within the industry.

–  Mohan Krishna Sunkara (@mk344567)


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