Photo by Thomas Hofbauer

Meet Matthew Hofbauer

Major: Business management with a concentration in marketing
Internship title: Project management intern
Organization: Motorola Solutions
Hometown: Nesconset, N.Y.
Expected graduation from Point Park: Spring 2014
College activities: President of the Residence Hall Association
Hobbies/interests: Boating, the beach, and roller hockey

Why did you choose to pursue a degree in business management?

I decided to pursue a major that was broader so that I could fit it into something I liked. Working for my family's small business for over five years and learning the “ins and outs,” has made me really think that one day I could open my own business.  However, being only being 19, I knew there was a lot I still had to learn. This degree is what will boost my confidence so that I can achieve my goal to build a successful business.

Did Point Park’s Downtown Pittsburgh location play a role in your decision to attend this university?

Being 25 minutes from New York City and growing up around a large city made me apprehensive to attend a university that was busy and large. However, Point Park’s campus is small and welcoming, teaching me at a pace that works. Pittsburgh is perfect because it’s small and quiet at night, yet feels like a city during the day. There is plenty to do on the weekends and there are always new experiences if you get out. Since the first day I saw Pittsburgh, I fell in love with its small town feeling. Previously, I never thought that could be found in a city.

What do you enjoy most about your internship?

I enjoy the overall experience and the people I have met at Motorola. Working in a huge office building with hundreds of people who have extensive knowledge has been a great learning experience for me. My multiple meetings a day are very exciting and I enjoy all of my colleagues. Everyone is very laid back, and office pranks happen all the time! I like how easily everyone communicates and works together.  I've also realized that no matter what position you have, every project you work on has a huge impact. People rely on each other for information and quality work.

In what ways do you think this summer internship will help you with your career goals?

This internship will help me figure out what I want do with my future. My work days consist of hours in meetings discussing issues, coming up with ideas, and presenting projects.  Time flies and I always feel there is something new happening. Most importantly, I have learned how to communicate and work well with others.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Do an internship! Don’t even double think it. Your college education and the reputation of the school you graduate from is important. But the internship you get, your overall performance, and the tools you learn will give you the confidence to find a job after college.  It also helps you find the job that you really want to do. Connections are vital, and the earlier you start the better off you will be in the end. There are things I like about office life, and there are things I dislike. When I grow closer to graduation and begin my job search, I will know exactly what questions to ask myself.

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