May 13, 2014
Like many of his peers, senior guard Tyler Les is working hard to unearth his answer to an age-old question: what to do next after earning an undergraduate degree. As is the case with numerous students on the cusp of graduating, Les felt that an internship would provide hands-on experience, further develop his skill set and help him become as educationally prepared and well-rounded a young professional as possible.
"I was interested in learning more about marketing and decided to conduct research about possible internship opportunities," Les said. "During this process, I discovered Life Technologies and decided to apply for one of their positions last spring."
After submitting an application, Les participated in three rounds of interviews before learning about his selection.
Within 72 hours, Les completed his final exam of the academic year, packed his belongings and headed south to San Diego. As one of three college-aged students subleasing a room from a family that lived near Cal State San Marcos, Les soaked up as much information about the area from his new housemates. However, before he had a chance to unpack everything and confidently navigate his way in and around Carlsbad, he walked through Life Technologies' doors as one of its newest employees.
Based in Carlsbad, Calif., Life Technologies helps its clients and customers accelerate life science research, patient diagnostics and increase laboratory productivity. In addition to conducting its own research, other third-party companies in the fields of forensics, stem cell therapies, genetic analysis, genetic engineering, agriculture biotechnology, food safety and animal health incorporate Life Technologies' services and instruments.
"I worked in the company's Human Resources, Creative Communications and Cultural Development Department. My department employed me and another student-athlete, a cornerback from Cornell, as its summer interns," explained Les.
In addition to assisting his colleagues with various day-to-day tasks, Les was provided the opportunity to become involved with individual projects. One major assignment called for Les to inform other employees about the progressive research being conducted, how other companies from around the world utilize the knowledge obtained, and products developed by Life Technologies.
"For my main project, I developed and organized an interview series involving executives and key personnel-it was called the "Life Leader Series." When I organized interviews, I wanted to highlight the responsibilities, duties and projects attached to these positions and describe how each positively contribute to the company's goals and mission."
Employed at the company's main branch, key executives and main human resources personnel worked in the same building as Les-an opportunity the (then) third year Aggie took full advantage of.
Les' department also served as Life Technologies' webmaster; if something positive took place at one of the company's other branches located across the country, or around the world, he and his department colleagues added that news online. This website also provided the perfect medium for all internal employees who were interested accessing Les' leadership series.
"It is humbling to know that people now have the ability to gain a deeper understanding about how other aspects of this company work," said Les.
Feedback has been nothing less than enthusiastic and positive.
Already willing to perform any task or project asked of him from day one, Les' efforts on his video series soon led to additional responsibilities.
"Staff members asked me to assist them with their projects or invited me to join them at various meetings. My co-workers were always willing to answer any question I asked and treated me as one of their colleagues.
"I had no problem performing even the most basic of tasks, but company employees were insistent on treating me like one of their own."
Since meetings often involved Life Technologies' international offices, hours varied each week. Sometimes Les and his co-workers worked a normal 9 a.m.-5 p.m. schedule; other days required everyone to come in earlier than normal or stay later than originally planned due to the time difference between the company's home office in Carlsbad and one of its satellite offices.
"When I made calls to individuals working in Europe, Australia or Japan, I found it fascinating to learn more about how other facets of this company operated."
Each week, representatives from each region contacted headquarters to share what was taking place at their respective branches. Shortly thereafter, the company's website reflected all positive news received from these frequent teleconferences.
If a week with atypical hours was not enough to keep Les busy, the sharpshooting guard also worked out numerous times each week to stay in playing shape.
"My co-worker was preparing for the inevitable two-a-day practices (at Cornell) that were scheduled to take place shortly after he returned, I wanted to keep my cardio and conditioning up to help me with my transition to preseason workouts."
Upon returning to Davis, Les was eager to share his experiences with friends and teammates since they also sought their elusive answer to the same question that fueled Les' internship research.
When asked for advice, Les admitted that his business experience was limited, which was one of the main reasons why he initiated his search in the first place.
"I wanted to develop as diverse a set of experiences as possible whether I start my career in athletics after I graduate, or pursue something else.
When asked about his experience, what key pieces of advice does Les share with his friends, teammates and peers?
"You need to be proactive with this process. I applied for numerous internships before being given an opportunity to work with a first-class company.
"The job world is tough, put your name out there and make as many contacts as possible. When someone is willing to give you a chance, take that opportunity seriously, work hard, ask questions and learn as much as you can."
