Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
What two Auburn students learned during their internship with one of Birmingham’s largest companies
Reading time: 6 minutes
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It’s no secret that internships can be incredibly valuable for college students—just ask Anna Spencer Lawley and Graham Barnett, two students at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business who were recently selected for a competitive internship with Brasfield & Gorrie.
Bham Now met with Graham and Anna Spencer to learn how they scored this exciting opportunity.
Meet two Auburn students who have interned at Brasfield & Gorrie
Throughout their time on the Plains, students at the Harbert College of Business are highly encouraged to pursue an internship in their chosen field. These internships give students invaluable workplace experience, with opportunities to:
- Apply classroom learnings to real-world situations
- Make connections and establish relationships in the industry
- Work alongside experienced personnel
- Make a lasting impact through contributions to projects
Anna Spencer Lawley | Junior at Auburn University
Each summer, Birmingham-based construction firm Brasfield & Gorrie hires around 300 interns in a variety of majors, including one finance intern. Anna Spencer Lawley—a Junior pursuing a degree in Finance—was selected for this summer’s internship.
“I had been exposed to Brasfield & Gorrie while growing up in Birmingham, so when I saw an application for their finance internship, it piqued my interest.
I met so many great people during the interview process and fell in love with the culture. I knew that this would be a valuable way to spend my summer.”
Anna Spencer Lawley, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
Graham Barnett | Senior at Auburn University
Anna Spencer was preceded by Graham Barnett, a Senior Finance major at Auburn, who participated in the internship last summer.
“I was drawn to the Harbert College of Business from day one at Auburn. As the years went by, I saw my peers and mentors with the College attain internships and successful jobs post-grad. Seeing that motivated me and made me feel confident that I had made the right decision.”
Graham Barnett, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
How the Harbert College of Business prepares students for internships
Internships—like the one at Brasfield & Gorrie—are excellent opportunities for students to practice the skills and knowledge they’ve learned in the classroom. That’s why the Harbert College of Business encourages each of its students to apply.
“My experience at the Harbert College of Business has helped me tremendously, both personally and professionally. Through my finance courses, I’ve learned how a big company like Brasfield & Gorrie operates behind the scenes.”
Graham Barnett, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
However, internships are competitive. To ensure its students have the best chance possible, the Harbert College of Business offers:
- A list of companies offering internships or employment opportunities on Handshake
- Internship prep with Program Champions, mentors who help students make positive, career-forward decisions
- And more
“The Harbert College of Business has always emphasized that a good work ethic and a positive attitude will take you far in your career. You don’t always have to be the smartest person in the room—as long as you show determination and a willingness to learn, you will succeed.”
Anna Spencer Lawley, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
At the Harbert College of Business, students have opportunities to expand their knowledge beyond the classroom. For instance, Anna Spencer has become involved in the Financial Management Association, an organization at Auburn that prepares students for careers in finance.
“The Financial Management Association has taught me technical skills as well as professional skills, such as how to excel in a work environment and how to network with people. I feel like it has prepared me to succeed in a very competitive industry.”
Anna Spencer Lawley, Finance Major, Harbert College of Business
What Graham and Anna Spencer learned at Brasfield & Gorrie
“From the interview process to their last day, students from the Harbert College of Business are meaningful contributors to our team.
Their work exposes them to multiple areas of finance and shows them how investments and financial analysis plays an important role in a large organization like Brasfield & Gorrie.”
Joe DeLozier, Senior Financial Analyst, Brasfield & Gorrie
During their time with Brasfield & Gorrie, Anna Spencer and Graham are entrusted to assist the finance team by:
- Evaluating investment opportunities
- Running financial analyses
- Researching industry trends for special projects
“I got to try something new every day during my internship, whether it was researching companies for a project or working with the financial team on analysis. To me, it was very meaningful to work on projects for a company like Brasfield & Gorrie as a 20-year-old college student.”
Graham Barnett, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
Learn more about how the Harbert College of Business prepares its students for their career
- Harbert College of Business: Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn
- Address: 405 West Magnolia Avenue, Auburn, Alabama 36849
“If you’re a student pursuing an internship, my advice is to take special care during the interview process to see if you enjoy the work culture. To me, it’s important to find a boss and team that pour into you and help you grow as an employee. I’ve definitely found that experience at Brasfield & Gorrie.”
Anna Spencer Lawley, Finance Major, Auburn University Harbert College of Business
Whether you’re currently enrolled at or considering a business degree from Auburn University, the Harbert College of Business’ Office of Career and Professional Development can help you make the most your of your college career.
Click here to learn more or reach out to one of the college’s six Program Champions:
Follow the Harbert College of Business on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on the latest!
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