Through Break Through Tech’s Sprinternship™ program, Lauren Lipinski, an undergraduate student at the University of Maryland gained real-world experience, grew her confidence, and landed a return offer.
Published
08/29/2025
Written By
Fatima Asif
For Lauren, a computer science student, technology has always been about problem-solving, innovation, and impact. Now, she’s building her career in the industry with a blend of technical skills, curiosity, and a commitment to making tech more inclusive.
Currently, working as a Software Development Intern at Exiger, she’s in her second internship with the company, a role she landed after successfully completing a Break Through Tech Sprinternship™. “I was fortunate to receive a return offer after completing a Sprinternship™ there, and I’m thrilled to be back continuing to grow as a developer,” she says.
Her dream job? “Jack of All Trades,” she explains. While her current focus is software engineering, she’s eager to explore everything from artificial intelligence to product design. “I’m driven by learning, problem-solving, and the thrill of discovering how things work and I’m excited to keep growing wherever tech takes me.”
Discovering Break Through Tech
She first heard about Break Through Tech through her university. “ The chance to participate in a real internship during the winter stood out to me as something truly unique,” she recalls. “It offered a rare chance to gain hands-on experience, get my foot in the door at a company, and build confidence in a professional tech environment early in my academic journey. I saw it as a head start that could really set me apart.”Her decision paid off.
“Participating in Break Through Tech’s Sprinternship™ genuinely changed the trajectory of my life. It gave me a newfound sense of confidence in my place within the tech industry. I had spent years studying computer science, but it wasn’t until I was given meaningful, real-world work that made a tangible impact on a company that I truly recognized my potential. Break Through Tech opened the door for me, not just to an internship, but to a mindset where I see myself as someone who belongs in tech.”
Hands-On Learning & Career Growth
During her Sprinternship™ at Exiger, Lauren collaborated with a diverse team of Sprinterns™and mentors to tackle a real-world challenge project. She applied skills in project management, AI technologies, and agile collaboration. This helped her gain insight into how tech impacts business outcomes. The experience not only sharpened her coding abilities but also taught her how to navigate a professional environment, connect with industry professionals, and translate classroom knowledge into practical solutions.
Her performance earned her a return offer, giving her the chance to dive deeper into software development. “Both internships helped me grow not just as a developer, but as a future tech professional ready to contribute meaningfully to the industry.”
Advice for Future Fellows & Looking Ahead
Lauren’s advice for undergraduate students considering the Sprinternship™ is simple: “don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. As an intern, you’ll find that people are eager to help, you just have to ask. Set up coffee chats, ask questions, and take initiative. Even though the experience may be short, it has the potential to make a lifelong impact if you’re intentional and open to growth.”
Lauren hopes to explore the full spectrum the tech industry has to offer, from AI to product design, while continuing to advocate for diversity and representation. “Technology should be built by everyone, for everyone,” she says. “I want to help make that a reality.”