Sana Zehra, a Construction Project Management student at the University of Portsmouth London campus, has successfully transitioned from intern to full-time team member at Synergy Interiors. Her journey exemplifies the impact of hands-on learning and industry collaboration.
Reflecting on her internship, Sana shared:
Everything was valuable. I had the opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to real-world project management and fit-out execution.
She appreciated being involved in client meetings, reviewing drawings, and using project management software like Procore, which bridged the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice.
Sana found every project meaningful, each offering unique challenges and learning opportunities. The Montcalm Hotel project, with its high-end finishes and tight timelines, tested her understanding of coordinating multiple trades. Meanwhile, the Brompton Road project, involving the adaptive reuse of a 100-year-old building into modern residential units, taught her the art of balancing old and new.
What stood out most for Sana was the collaborative environment at Synergy Interiors.
Everyone was approachable and willing to share their knowledge. They treated me as part of the team, even though I was an intern.
Learning from experienced team members like Dawid and Florjan on-site made the learning process both fun and insightful.
The internship not only strengthened her technical skills but also boosted her confidence and shaped her career aspirations. Sana now aims to pursue a role as a Design Manager, overseeing projects from concept to completion, bridging design and construction.
Her advice to future interns is simple: “Stay curious, observant, and open to learning every day. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, and take every site visit seriously—it’s where theory turns into real-world understanding.”
Sana Zehra’s journey showcases how a supportive internship, combined with curiosity and dedication, can open doors to exciting career opportunities. From observing, learning, and contributing, she’s proven that internships can be the perfect springboard to professional success.