In this Scholar-Athlete Spotlight, we are featuring Nilsu Demiran of Florida Tech women's swimming. This summer, the Tekirdag, Turkey, native is gaining meaningful experience at an internship in her desired field. We caught up with Demiran to learn more about the incredible opportunity.

What company are you interning for this summer? What is your title and role with the company?
"This summer, I interned with a real estate company in Miami, Florida. As a Real Estate Intern, I assisted with client communications, property marketing, CRM management, social media content creation, and outreach to prospective buyers and investors. I also helped organize networking events and supported various business development activities."

What drew you to this internship? What steps did you have to take to earn your position within the company?
"I was drawn to this internship because it combined business, marketing, and real estate in one of the most dynamic markets in the United States. As an international student interested in business, I wanted hands-on experience in a professional environment. To earn this position, I networked with professionals, demonstrated my communication skills, and showed my willingness to learn and contribute to the company."

What are some exciting tasks or projects that you have been able to be a part of?
"One of the most exciting parts of my internship was helping market luxury residential developments and communicating with potential clients and investors. I also assisted with social media campaigns, created promotional content, worked with CRM systems, and participated in networking and business development initiatives. These experiences gave me valuable exposure to the real estate industry."
 
What is your major at Florida Tech? Why did you choose this direction for your education and is this something you always wanted to pursue?
"I am majoring in Business at Florida Tech. I chose this field because I have always been interested in entrepreneurship, economics, and how organizations grow and succeed. As both a student-athlete and an international student, I wanted a degree that would provide versatile career opportunities while helping me develop leadership and management skills."

How has being a scholar-athlete prepared you for the work you are currently doing in your internship? What skills have you taken from your time as a scholar-athlete that help you in your internship?
"Being a scholar-athlete has taught me discipline, time management, resilience, and teamwork. Balancing academics and athletics requires strong organizational skills and the ability to perform under pressure. These skills have helped me stay productive, meet deadlines, communicate effectively, and adapt to new challenges throughout my internship."

How is your internship preparing you for a career you would like to do after graduation?
"This internship has given me practical experience in business operations, client relations, marketing, and professional networking. It has helped me understand how businesses operate in a competitive market and has strengthened my communication and problem-solving skills. These experiences will be valuable as I pursue a career in business and entrepreneurship after graduation."

What advice would you give another scholar-athlete/prospective scholar-athlete who is looking to pursue a similar path?
"My advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity, both inside and outside the classroom. Do not be afraid to network, ask questions, and step outside your comfort zone. Being a scholar-athlete teaches valuable life skills that employers appreciate. Stay disciplined, remain open to learning, and remember that every experience can help shape your future career."