Seizing Opportunity Early: Freshman's Journey to Internship Success
November 13, 2024 | News, John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation
By John Anderson III
While many students wait until the back half of their academic journey to seek internship experience, Mohammad Almasri, a professional sales and finance student at The University of Toledo’s John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation, took a different approach.
During his freshman year, Mohammad attended a job fair hosted by the Neff College
and eventually landed a full-time summer internship as a Sales Specialist with Double
A Solutions, a Toledo-based company. 
“The career fair was where I met Double A Solutions,” Mohammad shared.
Following this introduction, Mohammad also participated in the Edward H. Schmidt School of Professional Sales' Internal Sales Competition, where he further strengthened his connection with Double A Solutions.
Excelling in the competition, Mohammad didn’t just perform well, however—he also networked with other companies offering internships.
“We could tell pretty quickly that Mohammad had initiative and was eager to learn," said Deirdre Jones, director of the Edward H. Schmidt School of Professional Sales.
After a series of interviews and formal discussions with various companies, he found himself with several internship offers, each recognizing his talent and ambition.
Ultimately, he chose to bring his skills to Double A Solutions.
Though he hadn't taken formal sales coursework yet, as he is still completing his lower division classes, the Sylvania Southview High School alumnus' acumen and preparedness sealed the deal on securing his internship with Double A Solutions.
As an intern, Almasri was responsible for setting appointments, hosting meetings with insurance agents, handling customer inquiries and closing sales.
He not only gained valuable insights into the sales cycle but also sharpened his organizational and time management skills.
“Without this proper organization and management, I would miss out on multiple opportunities,” he explained, highlighting how his skills developed through daily interactions with numerous agents.
Mohammad’s internship at Double A Solutions was particularly rewarding because of the supportive team culture.
“The most rewarding aspect had to have been the experience and the culture. The team was great, and I was able to learn so much from them,” he said.
Now in his sophomore year, Mohammad’s advice for fellow students is clear: take advantage of the career services early.
“Even if you are nervous, try out events such as competitions or career fairs,” he recommended.
“You will learn a lot and get much more comfortable. It’s much easier to get an internship through networking than just applying.”
The Neff College of Business and Innovation encourages even first-year students to take full advantage of its robust programming and resources, empowering them to start their professional development early.
“Whether it is resume critiques, mock interviews or even a job fair, you are going to be provided with crucial information that you will be using in the business world,” said Mohammad.