How Strategic Preparation Led to Zhen Zhen’s Internship at Alectra Utilities
For Zhen Zhen (Tech MBA ‘25), securing a Business Analyst internship at Alectra Utilities was not the result of a single moment — but of consistent preparation, strategic use of resources, and intentional networking.
Zhen’s career journey began with early engagement at the Centre for Career Design (CCD), particularly through the Professional Development Hive course. Through the course, Zhen refined his résumé and cover letter multiple times, developing tailored versions for different industries and roles. This iterative process helped sharpen how his skills and experiences were communicated — a foundation that became especially valuable once a target role and organization were identified.
“When I identified the company and position I wanted to apply for, I adjusted my materials again based on the industry and job requirements,” Zhen shared. “That repeated polishing really made a difference.”
Beyond application materials, Zhen also leaned into networking opportunities promoted and organized by the CCD. By attending events and proactively connecting with professionals from Alectra Utilities, Zhen focused on articulating how his prior experience aligned with the organization’s needs, while also expressing genuine enthusiasm for the utilities and energy sector.
“I truly believe it was the combination of refining my application materials and meeting the right people through CCD events that allowed my efforts to finally pay off,” Zhen reflected. “Opportunities always favour those who are well prepared — and preparation only becomes valuable when it meets the right opportunity.”
When invited to interview, Zhen approached preparation with the same level of intention. This included in-depth research on the company’s mission, projects, and team structure, as well as reviewing LinkedIn profiles to better understand what skills and values the team prioritized. To prepare for behavioral questions, Zhen practiced using the STAR method and booked a mock interview through the CCD, which helped refine responses and communication style.
Zhen also used Big Interview, one of the CCD’s digital resources, to further strengthen interview performance. Preparing thoughtful questions about innovation goals and future opportunities helped turn the interview into a natural, engaging conversation.
The CCD’s support extended beyond interviews and into offer negotiation. While navigating multiple opportunities, Zhen worked closely with Dr. Minerva Cernea, Director of the Centre for Career Design, to develop a thoughtful negotiation strategy. With guidance on how to communicate interest clearly, professionally, and authentically, Zhen reached out proactively to Alectra Utilities — a step that ultimately led to an interview and a successful offer.
“One of the most valuable resources for me was the Professional Development Hive course led by Professor Minerva Cernea,” Zhen shared. “It transformed my job search from something uncertain and stressful into a structured and goal-oriented process. Each module felt like having a project manager keeping me on track.”
Reflecting on the experience, Zhen emphasized how the CCD’s practical, milestone-driven approach made growth manageable and confidence-building. By turning areas for improvement into clear action plans, the job search became not only more effective, but more empowering.
