HARRISBURG, PA — With an interest in gaming and web design, Eliany Perez Irizarry ’27 found an academic home at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU). As an Interactive Media major concentrating in User Experience Design, she has had opportunities to explore her interests, develop her skills, and build a foundation for her future career. Now, she is applying that experience as an intern with Governor Shapiro’s Digital Office, where she contributes to digital media and marketing projects for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
In this student spotlight, Eliany shares how she found her path at HU, what she’s learning through her internship, and the advice she has for fellow students pursuing professional opportunities.
How did you hear about HU? Why did you decide to attend?
I heard about HU from my brother. He is an alum, and he told me I would fit right in at HU because of my interests in gaming and esports. I decided to attend after doing my own research and attending Accepted Student Day. The staff that day was really welcoming, and I especially had a blast at Professor Palmer’s segment. This increased my interest in Interactive Media, and I decided to move forward with the intent to concentrate in UX Design.
What drew you to your major?
In high school all I knew was that I wanted to go to college. My two biggest interests were web design and video games, so since I was already interested in Harrisburg University, I found Interactive Media fit me best. As for my User Experience Design concentration, after taking Introduction to Interactive Media in my first year, I found it very fun and realized it was something I could see myself doing for a long time.
How did you find your internship with the Governor’s Digital Office?
I was recommended for my internship at the Governor’s Office by Professor Liu. She frequently sends emails about internship opportunities, and when she sent the one for Governor Shapiro’s Office, I was in the middle of my search. The Digital Intern position seemed like a perfect fit since I was looking for an in-person position that could give me a great experience, introduce me to many local people, and teach me a lot of new skills.
What are your primary responsibilities as an intern with Governor Shapiro’s Digital Office, and what types of projects do you contribute to?
My main responsibilities are capturing, editing, coloring, and captioning videos. I help make graphics and conduct research for projects. I also monitor social media trends, news, and creators for events. I am learning to write and create memos for events and digital ideas.
I contribute to the full-service multimedia and marketing services Governor Shapiro’s Digital Office provides to Commonwealth agencies by capturing and editing video and photography, conducting research, drafting scripts, and managing digital content for broadcast and social media platforms. This offers me the chance to collaborate with a variety of media professionals, practice independent judgment in determining and implementing industry-standard techniques, and hone my instincts in adherence to journalistic standards of ethics.
What has been your favorite or most meaningful part of the internship so far?
During my internship at Governor Shapiro’s Office, I have learned a lot of new skills, but the most meaningful part, without a doubt, is the people. I have met many amazing people who put a lot of hours into their work. Seeing them work at such a fast pace and still produce such high-quality digital content has inspired me. I hope during my time I can learn to work at the quality and speed they do.
How has your experience at HU prepared you for this internship?
My experience at HU prepared me for this internship by equipping me with a portfolio that I am proud of. Thanks to the classes I have taken and the teachers who have pushed me, I have worked on unique projects that help me stand out. Without the experiences and skills HU has given me, I would not have been prepared for my internship.
What advice would you give to other HU students who are looking for internships?
If I could say something to students currently looking for internships, I would say, do not take for granted the resources HU provides you with. Professors and advisors at HU prepared me with not only the skills to succeed at my internship but also the skills to acquire it, from learning to make a resume and portfolio to the skills necessary during interviews and professional settings. The HU resources are there to help you, so use them!
What are your career goals after graduation?
After graduating, I wish to find a challenging position that can keep me growing. I want to continue learning new skills and refining ones that I already have, since, in my opinion, you can never learn enough.
About Harrisburg University
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, analytics, biotechnology, cybersecurity, nursing, and other STEM fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link research with practical application. Learn more at HarrisburgU.edu or stay in the know by following HU on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Media Contact
Have questions about this story? Want to line up an interview? Contact Dan Wilhelm, director of communications, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu.
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