“By far my top used resource is the Job Search Guide! I recommend this to anyone who is working on their resumes, cover letters, needing advice on interviews, or even setting up a LinkedIn or Handshake account. The Job Search Guide has all of the answers students need and is easily accessible online if you misplace your hard copy,” said Ellie Wanek.
Ellie, a UNL junior majoring in Animal Science, will be spending her summer in the Merck Animal Health Future Talent Rotational Program (FTRP).
“I have used lots of the resources that Career Services provides and recommends. In a panic to find a summer job, I was searching ALL of the platforms to find something I was interested in. I was Googling, searching on Handshake, and asking many Animal Science professors and peers for advice. I came across a posting for the Merck Animal Health Future Talent Rotational Program on Google and began researching it. The program is a one in a million opportunity to experience many different roles within Merck Animal Health,” said Wanek.
Starting this summer and ending the summer of 2025, Wanek as a program associate will be changing roles regularly throughout her 15-month internship. She will first start in research and development, working on both companion animal research and her own personal project with a team of scientists and colleagues. After that, Wanek will complete commercial operations and manufacturing rotations.
“I am most excited for the hands-on opportunities I get in real world scenarios. I will be working side by side with incredible Merck scientists and learning incredible things throughout the 15 months. It is a super unique job, and I will get tons of experience before I graduate, which will set me up for success in finding a job or pursuing further education,” said Wanek.
Outside of her career, Ellie dedicates time to being a Peer Career Coach for the College of Agricultural Resources and Natural Resources. She joined the team after having a positive experience with another Peer Career Coach the year before, inspiring her to also want to help out other students.
“I have learned TONS from this position including things like how to fine-tune a resume, how to write a cover letter that will grab an employer’s attention, how to use resources like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Husker Circle, and have made some great connections with students in CASNR. I have enjoyed the extra work we get to do as coaches– helping with the career fairs and other campus events and organizing a golf scramble for CASNR students to connect with employers,” said Wanek.
Ellie is involved with NHRI on campus, mentoring an 8th grader here in Lincoln. She also serves as a Tri Chair Leader for JP North and attends the Newman Center.
In the future, Ellie would like to work in the livestock industry.
“I am not exactly sure what avenue in the animal science industry I want to take, but throughout my time working in career services I learned that that is okay! I will continue to explore opportunities through school and the FTRP program and eventually discover the approach I want to take in my career,” said Wanek.
Want to find an internship and grow your career? Check out our resources, meet with a Career Coach, and more on careers.unl.edu
