Name: Cynthia Amoaba
Class Year: 2026
Major:  Economics
Minor: Data Science
 
Internship Organization:  Massachusetts Financial Services Investment Management
Internship Title:   Global Distributions and Strategy (Data Science, Fixed Income)
Location:  Boston, MA
 
What’s happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing!  

At my internship, I’m working with the Global Distributions team to analyze how advisor meetings translate into actual investment purchases. My project involves connecting meeting data with trade data to measure conversion rates, average time-to-purchase, and product performance across different organizations and portfolio codes. Using Excel and Python, I generate reports and visualizations that help the team identify trends, target high-potential opportunities, and improve sales strategies.
 
Why did you apply for this internship?  

I applied for this internship because I wanted hands-on experience at the intersection of data analysis, finance, and client engagement. MFS Investment’s strong reputation in asset management and its collaborative culture offered the perfect environment to apply my analytical skills, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to projects that have real business impact.
 
Was there anything special about how you found this internship? 

Yes. I found this internship through conversations with people in my network. I’ve learned that it’s important to talk openly about the things you’re interested in, even if you have multiple areas you’re exploring. Sharing my interests led to connections and opportunities I might not have found on my own.  

What has been  your favorite part of this internship?

My favorite part has been meeting with people in various departments. I’ve also enjoyed the lunch meetings and meeting other interns through our volunteer programs. The running club on Wednesday afternoon is a reflection that the community at MFS goes beyond the walls of our office cubicles. And oh, I enjoyed the free museum tickets as well. 

What is something you have learned from your internship that you didn’t expect? 

My manager challenged me to connect with someone new each week, which led to conversations I might not have initiated on my own. I even reached out to senior leadership — including the CEO and president — and was pleasantly surprised by their enthusiasm to meet. This experience taught me that if someone’s calendar looks full, it’s still worth sending a meeting request; people often make time for genuine interest. I later learned that some employees who have been here for years have never had those meetings, which made the experience even more valuable.  

Can you talk about the skills you are learning and why they are important to you? 

During my internship, I’ve been developing both technical and professional skills. On the technical side, I’ve gained experience in data analysis using Excel and Python, which has strengthened my ability to transform raw data into actionable insights. These skills are critical for making informed business decisions and will be valuable in any data-driven role I take on in the future.My team was also using Snowflake which got me to start my personal courses to learn more about Microsoft Azure On the professional side, I’ve improved my communication, networking, and presentation abilities. Meeting people across departments has sharpened my confidence in engaging with different audiences, including senior leadership. These skills are important to me because they not only help me contribute effectively in the workplace but also build long-term professional relationships and open doors for future opportunities. 

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced at your internship? 

The biggest challenge I faced was during my project, when I realized the dataset I was working with was much larger and more complex than I initially anticipated. I also had to navigate how to merge different data sources, interpret company-specific terminology, and understand how it connected to portfolios and strategies. My first instinct was to try to figure it out on my own, but I learned the value of asking questions and leveraging the expertise of my colleagues. This experience showed me the true meaning of teamwork and how collaboration can lead to better, faster solutions. 

What is most rewarding about your internship? 

One of the most rewarding moments of my internship was volunteering at Cradles to Crayons. During our session, I cleaned over 15 pairs of shoes in just two hours, the highest number completed that day. This experience was deeply personal for me. Having once been unable to attend school due to a lack of proper shoes, I understand firsthand how something as simple as a good pair of shoes can make a difference, not only enabling a child to attend school but also allowing them to fully participate in the joys of childhood. I am grateful for the chance to give back in a way that resonates so deeply with my own journey. 

Can you give us three adjectives and three nouns that describe your internship experience? 

Adjectives: Collaborative, Insightful, Challenge  

Nouns: Networking, Growth, Excitement 

Was this internship what you expected it to be? 

This internship exceeded my expectations. Not only did MFS push me through a period of tremendous professional and personal growth, but it also introduced me to the vibrant city of Boston, a place definitely worth experiencing. I will truly miss both the people and the environment that made this journey so memorable. Who knows, I might just find myself back here again in the future.