This summer, I had the opportunity to work as a Customer Success Intern in the Chicago Office. My role was deeply involved with the post-sales process. I was responsible for reaching out to customers with low Okta usage at high churn risks, forming a connection with them, and helping them maximize their Okta usage.
When I first walked into Okta, I expected to build technical skills. What I didn’t expect was that the most valuable part of my internship would come from conversations — ones that challenged, inspired, and even surprised me.
Amelia Smith in the Chicago office with some of her intern cohort
Throughout my time at Okta, I’ve gained many valuable skills. However, the most valuable takeaway for me is the people I’ve met and connected with. From industry leaders to interns in different fields and locations to the CEO of Okta, I’ve been able to connect with a wide variety of people. I have learned something new from every person I’ve spoken to.
By networking and connecting with people from different backgrounds, I’ve been able to improve my conversational skills and realize valuable professional skills that I may not have recognized in myself before. For example, I've become a much better listener — truly hearing others, not just waiting for my turn to speak.
I’ve learned how to incorporate active listening into conversations, which improves my thoughtfulness in conversations and the quality of my questions by forming them around the relevant topics. I was even able to directly ask a question surrounding the impact of COVID on Okta to Todd McKinnon, the CEO, which built my confidence further. In customer success, these communication skills are key to my role in engaging with people more deeply.
Amelia Smith with other interns at a Chicago Cubs game
Because of the great support I’ve received here, I feel fully prepared to take on challenges in my internship. Okta has created the right environment for success. As I look toward the future, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned and the people who taught them to me. Whether it’s stepping into a new project or meeting a future teammate, I now know that success starts with connection.
Interested in working at Okta? Learn more about our internship and early career opportunities.
