Janak Chhabria
INTERVIEW
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Intern in Power Cable Division
Janak is from India and is currently studying at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Janak interned at our Power Cable Division in Osaka for seven weeks.
Why did you want to intern at Sumitomo Electric?
I was eager to intern at Sumitomo Electric because it is a leading global company known for its innovation and excellence across various industries. The opportunity to work with a top-tier organization that is ahead in technology and business practices is incredibly appealing. Additionally, I have a strong interest in experiencing Japanese work culture, which is renowned for its discipline, teamwork, and commitment to quality. Interning at Sumitomo Electric would not only provide me with a unique perspective on working in another country but also allow me to gain valuable insights and skills that will enhance my career in the global market.
What was the most interesting thing you learned from this internship?
The most interesting thing I've learned from this internship is the intricate interconnectedness of various processes within a company and the immense challenge of managing them effectively. It’s one thing to understand individual tasks or projects in isolation, but seeing how they are all linked—how one department’s output becomes another’s input, how timing and coordination are crucial, and how even small disruptions can ripple through the entire system—has been truly eye-opening. Managing these processes requires not only technical knowledge but also strong organizational and communication skills to ensure that everything runs smoothly and aligns with the company’s overall objectives.
What was a typical workday like for you as an intern at SEI?
A typical workday as an intern at Sumitomo Electric started early, with me leaving the dorm around 6:30 am to ensure I was dressed and ready by 8:00 am. Once at the office, I would spend some time on pre-work preparations, organizing my tasks and getting ready for the day. After that, I would have a brief check-in with my supervisor to discuss my daily tasks and outline how I planned to progress with my assignments. This morning routine helped me stay focused and aligned with the team’s goals.
The workday officially ended around 5:15 pm, after which I would head to the gym near Sumitomo to unwind and stay active. On my way back, I often stopped at a restaurant at Osaka Station to grab some food. This routine provided a balanced mix of work, fitness, and cultural exploration, making each day both fulfilling and enriching.
How has the internship help shaped your career?
This internship has been instrumental in shaping my career by providing a comprehensive understanding of what working in the manufacturing industry truly entails. It has given me hands-on experience with the day-to-day operations, challenges, and intricacies of a manufacturing environment, which is invaluable for my future career. I've gained insights into process management, quality control, and the importance of efficiency and precision in production. This experience has solidified my interest in the industry and equipped me with the practical knowledge and skills that will be crucial as I pursue a career in this field.
What advice do you have for other students considering this internship?
My advice for students considering this internship is to make the most of your time both in and out of the workplace. While the work can be demanding and the pace might get hectic, it's important to find a balance. I highly recommend taking advantage of your weekends to explore and travel—you’re in a unique position to experience a different culture and see new places, which can be incredibly enriching. However, don’t forget to also set aside some time to relax and recharge. Balancing work with leisure will help you stay energized and make the most out of your internship experience.
