Student Perspectives: From Chemistry to Business: Lessons from My Internship Journey

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MS Finance '25 student, Paola Cepeda, shared with the GCMC how she transitioned from a career in science to a career path in business and how she connects the two worlds. 

After 15 years working as a chemical engineer in R&D for the home and personal care industry in Colombia, I made a bold move: I left behind the lab and production processes to pursue a master’s in finance in New York. I wanted to better understand the business side of how financial decisions drive strategy, growth, and long-term success. My recent internship has been a key part of that journey. 

One of the most important things I have learned during this experience is how valuable it is to see the entire picture. In R&D, I focused on developing products and optimizing formulas and processes. Now, with my growing finance background, I have been evaluating how those innovations impact cost structures, pricing, and profitability. The ability to connect both worlds, technical and financial, has completely reshaped how I approach problem-solving. 

Fortunately, I found my internship through a strong network I built over years of working in Colombia. My former employer helped open the door, and it was a reminder of how powerful long-standing relationships can be, even across borders. However, I have also made an intentional effort to grow my network here in the U.S. A moment that stands out is when I used those connections to engage with a potential supplier. That conversation helped solve a key issue for my team and opened possibilities for new customer relationships. It was a small action with a significant impact and a clear example of how networking can fuel real results. 

During the internship, my biggest contribution has been bringing a holistic view to the team. I have worked to evaluate potential product launches by analyzing their technical feasibility and financial implications. Thanks to my background, I have been able to bridge two perspectives. This has made our decision-making stronger, more balanced, and aligned with both product strategy and business goals. 

This experience has sparked a desire to keep learning, especially in corporate finance and strategic management. I want to understand better how companies invest, take risks, and build long-term value, particularly in fast-moving industries like CPG. I’m also interested in how sustainability is increasingly shaping financial decisions and product development. 

My advice for those struggling to find an internship is simple: lean into your story. Leverage your background, no matter how different it may seem from your new path. Every connection counts. Start by contacting former colleagues, mentors, or professors; you never know who might open a door for you. At the same time, be curious and open. Every coffee chat, event, or message is a chance to build a new connection.  

And remember: your unique background is a strength, not a limitation. Find ways to connect your past to your future goals, do not be afraid to show how your background—no matter how nontraditional—can add unique value. It’s often the blend of experiences that makes you stand out. 

Find ways to connect your experience to your future goals. 

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