Building Group Intern – Barnum Elementary School, Cheshire
University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Architecture, Class of 2027
For Elizabeth Jerram, this summer has been full of firsts. Her internship with O&G at the Barnum Elementary School project in Cheshire marks her first experience on a construction site—and her first glimpse into the professional world beyond the classroom.
“So far, this internship has been both challenging and exciting,” she says. “I’ve been tracking and projecting steel progress and helping with submittals. Every day brings something new, and I’m learning a lot of concepts I haven’t encountered before.”
As someone studying architecture, Elizabeth was initially unsure about stepping into the construction side of the industry. “Before this, I would have confidently said I didn’t want to work in construction,” she admits. “But being on site every day, seeing the design come to life, and learning how many moving parts are involved—it’s completely changed my perspective. I’m beginning to see a future where I could combine both construction and architecture.”
Elizabeth says the supportive environment at O&G has played a big role in that shift. “Whether I’m at the main office or on site, everyone has been incredibly welcoming and invested in helping me learn,” she says. “They’ve created a space where I feel comfortable asking questions and confident taking on new responsibilities.”
That’s exactly what she advises future interns to do: “Be confident—and never be afraid to ask questions.”
When she’s not working, Elizabeth likes to spend as much time as she can outdoors—especially hiking. After she wraps up her internship, she’ll return to campus with new knowledge, valuable experience, and a broader vision for what her career path might hold.
