A Conversation with our Intern, Pratiksha Gade: Her View from the Construction Site
July 2024
Northstar is committed to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of talent with a passion for pursuing careers in project management. As part of our internship/co-op program, we collaborate with institutions such as Northeastern University, Wentworth Institute of Technology, and CREST (Commercial Real Estate Success Training) to identify exceptional candidates.
We had the pleasure of welcoming Pratiksha Gade to our team for the past six months. Pratiksha recently graduated from Northeastern University with a Master’s degree in Project Management, specializing in Construction Management. During her time with us, she supported pre-construction market readiness assessments, punch list administration, and document management activities for life science projects with BioMed Realty, Sanofi, and Takeda Pharmaceutical, as well as Harvard University Housing’s portfolio. She was actively involved in the development of Assembly Innovation Park, attending weekly OAC and coordination meetings with the team, assisting with schedule reviews, and reviewing garage wayfinding installations and closeout documentation.
We took the opportunity to sit down with Pratiksha to gain insights into her experience as part of our Northstar team during her co-op.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND
I am a graduate student currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Project Management at Northeastern University. Prior to this, I worked as an architect in Mumbai, India. Although I enjoyed working in the design field, my responsibilities there inspired me to pursue a degree in project management. Northeastern has a wonderful co-op program, which I decided to take advantage of to gain U.S.-based experience in the industry. Northstar’s history of working with reputable clients on a variety of projects in different sectors drew me towards it. After my co-op, I will return to school to complete my summer term and finish my classes to graduate by Fall this year.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR Co-Op EXPERIENCE AT NORTHSTAR TO OTHERS?
Northstar was highly focused on making this co-op a great learning experience for me. It was a great balance of in-office and on-site experience. I was involved with several projects at different stages, from pre-construction to closeout, and got the opportunity to collaborate with most people at the office and assist them on different tasks.
Working as an OPM for different projects also allowed me to interact with different teams of general contractors, architects, engineers, and consultants. Working here has provided me with invaluable insights into managing construction projects in the US.
WHAT IS THE GREATEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED WITH YOUR Co-Op AT NORTHSTAR?
Every project is unique, and even with extensive experience, there will always be new aspects to encounter. The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s alright to not know something as long as you are willing to learn. However, it’s not okay if you don’t ask questions, as you’ll never learn otherwise. Learning doesn’t stop at any age, and it’s essential to embrace that mindset. Don’t shy away from asking questions. You might feel awkward at first, but asking questions will help you in the long run!
WHAT WAS THE MOST REWARDING THING ABOUT WORKING WITH THE NORTHSTAR TEAM?
The most rewarding aspect of working with the Northstar team was the opportunity to shadow and observe different Project Managers in action. It was a great insight into how they effectively managed both projects and people with their distinct approaches and styles. Each one of them had something unique and valuable to offer, and learning from them will certainly be instrumental in my professional growth and journey.
WHAT NEW SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE DID YOU GAIN THROUGH YOUR NORTHSTAR Co-Op?
Previously, as a designer, my focus was primarily on design aspects. However, as an owner’s representative, I have been involved in high-level decision-making, which has challenged my strategic thinking. I spent more time on job sites, learning about materials, construction techniques, and schedules. Beyond technical project management skills, Northstar has provided a platform for me to practice my soft skills and coordinate tasks independently.
WHAT CAREER PATH ARE YOU LOOKING TO GET INTO AND WHY?
After I finish my course, I aim to pursue a career in project management. I want to utilize my experiences as an architect and project manager to successfully lead large project teams and handle multi-million-dollar projects.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE NORTHSTAR CULTURE?
The atmosphere here is incredibly open and collaborative. Everyone is eager to learn and pitch in, and no matter your position, you’re encouraged to share your thoughts, which makes for a dynamic and interactive environment. I’ve had the chance to chat and connect with everyone at the office, and it’s clear that they’re all passionate about what they do, treating projects like their own.
A FEW PHOTOS FROM Pratiksha’s INTERN EXPERIENCE.
