Twenty-seven talented and bright interns joined MISO this summer in both the Carmel, IN and Eagan, MN offices. I got the chance to chat with Diyar Salih, an electrical engineering major at Prairie View A&M University, to learn about her summer in Eagan working with the resource utilization team.

About the Internship Role

Rebecca Liebross: Can you describe your role and responsibilities during your internship at MISO?

Diyar Salih: I am in System Planning on the resource utilization team. My team evaluates and approves the integration of new energy sources into the MISO transmission network.

RL: What specific projects or tasks did you work on?

DS: My main project is to review generation interconnection projects and identify parameter inconsistencies between Model On Demand (MOD) and the latest transmission system model used by regional engineers. I also conduct industry research for the purpose of improving new technology and enabling better integration into the power grid.

RL: What skills did you find most valuable for your role?

DS: Learning an industry standard software tool such as PSSE, and related tools such as Model On Demand and TARA. Additionally, I’ve gained insight into a power engineer’s way of thinking and problem solving. Other skills include collaborative abilities, attention to detail, and nimble learning. I also have enjoyed learning about generation interconnection and know that it will take more time to gain a full understanding.

RL: How did your academic background help you in your internship?

DS: While I have yet to take power systems courses, some of my engineering courses help me frame my mind around problem solving, process comprehension and application.

Experience and Learning

RL: What was the most challenging aspect of your internship? How did you overcome it?

DS: Being surrounded by many incredibly knowledgeable individuals, at times, I felt that I need to speed up my learning to reach a certain level. I reached out to people that inspire me and, with vulnerability, I sought out their advice; that helped me changed my perspective. We all naturally experience imposter syndrome and it’s important to understand that this opportunity is to help me learn and grow.

RL: Can you share a moment when you felt particularly successful or proud of your work?

DS: I am mostly proud of my courage to participate in team meetings when I have relevant input, or simply asking questions when I don’t know something. I am also proud of my most recent participation with the interns in Carmel for the data challenge; aside from collaborating virtually, we were all from different academic backgrounds.

RL: What new skills or knowledge did you acquire during your internship?

DS: Data analysis. Cross checking using different software tools in a detail-oriented manner.

RL: How did this internship help you in your career development?

DS: In this internship, I have gained professional experience from a leading ISO [Independent System Operator] in its practice among other ISOs in the region. I feel comfortable coming back to the energy industry after graduation to pursue my career. Also, there’s character development in being away from home in a new space.

Mentorship and Support

RL: How was the mentorship and support from your supervisors and colleagues?

DS: Everyone is very welcoming, and open to teaching me. I feel very comfortable reaching out to my colleagues when I need guidance on an issue that I am stuck on. They also make sure that I know that.

RL: Did you have regular check-ins or feedback sessions? How did they help you?

DS: Yes, my check-ins were focused on my overall well-being in this experience. It is helpful that my manager was a previous intern at MISO.

Company Culture

RL: How would you describe the company culture at MISO?

DS: Adaptable and open to collaboration. Everyone at MISO has shown a welcoming attitude.

RL: Did you feel like a part of the team? How did the company facilitate this?

DS: Yes, I enjoyed being included on various meetings and invited to participate when necessary.

Advice and Future Plans

RL: What advice would you give to future MISO interns?

DS: To remain open to the experience and give yourself the time to adjust. There are many great people that you will meet that will help you in your journey even if you did not continue your career at MISO. It is a great opportunity for learning and exposure to a stable career path.

RL: How has this internship influenced your career aspirations or academic plans?

DS: I think often about where I can go from here. I want to include power systems courses in my degree plan, and I have thoughts regarding a school organization initiative that is energy careers focused.

Overall Reflection

RL: What was your overall impression of the internship program at MISO?

DS: It has been a time of growth, and I will see the fruits of it as I continue in my academic and career journey. I am happy that I was led here and have built relationships that will last a lifetime.

RL: Is there anything else you would like to share about your internship experience?

DS: As I still have some weeks to go, I look forward to the many more moments of pride and achievement for all that we have accomplished as an intern group and myself individually.  

Rebecca Liebross is an intern in MISO’s external affairs division and is studying marketing and analytics at Indiana University. Learn more about MISO's award-winning internship program on our website and explore the benefits of a career at MISO here.