Ben Brandes (he/him) spent the fall of 2021 as a Talent Attraction intern at Indeed which evolved into an extended paid internship opportunity. He is a freshman in college studying Digital Media Technology. Ben has a Cavachon dog named Charlie. He’s created and published his own photography book and is a huge UConn basketball fan. One time he got to meet his favorite chef, Emeril Lagasse, at a book signing.
Ben shares his internship experience in the hope to inspire others.
My internship came through Indeed reaching out to the business department at my high school. I was excited to be part of Indeed’s new Internship program for students with special needs. The chance to get valuable experience with an amazing company like Indeed is beyond belief. Currently, I attend the County College of Morris in Randolph, New Jersey. My major is Digital Media Technology.
Throughout the last few months, I have been able to learn a lot about Recruiting, working with mentors from different parts of our Talent Attraction team. I’ve had the chance to shadow and learn the ropes of sourcing talent for Indeed. I even got the chance to take a crack at creating graphics for employer branding. My favorite part has been meeting (virtually) the kind, helpful people at Indeed. I’ve loved having the opportunity to learn about the recruiting field and how we source talent that supports our hiring priorities at Indeed.
“I help people get jobs” to me means thinking of my friends and family and how our mission touches the people around me.”
Support from the start
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Indeed mission. Indeed has supported me from the beginning of my internship. Even before my onboarding and orientation, I was asked if I needed any special equipment or accommodations. I always feel comfortable asking if I need anything. The biggest challenge I faced at the beginning of my internship was keeping up with all of the emails and reading while juggling school projects and personal emails as well. Fortunately, I work with very patient and understanding mentors and bosses who meet with me weekly, and also put detailed projects in writing so I can refer back as many times as I need to finish my work. I have worked very hard and learned so much in just a few short months.
“With the support and guidance of kind and helpful mentors, my paid internship has been extended. I am so thankful and honored to continue at Indeed. This meaningful internship opportunity is priceless for anyone – especially someone with special needs.”
The tools to succeed
For me, the biggest benefit of working at Indeed has been the learning and valuable work experience. I have been taught new programs, how to source candidates, and about employer branding. I was able to virtually attend Lunch and Learn sessions, our Talent Attraction All Hands, and weekly Q&A sessions which helped me learn more about the company as a whole.
“My paid internship is just icing on the cake.”
Indeed proud
My advice for other students who may be thinking about joining Indeed as an intern is don’t hesitate to apply. It’s the best company ever. It’s a very diverse, warm, welcoming, thoughtful culture that really cares about their employees. I’m so proud to be an Indeedian. What an amazing experience it’s been helping all people try to get meaningful jobs.
To learn more about internship opportunities or working full-time at Indeed, click here.
