As an intern in Cornell’s Division of Financial Services, Dara Ben-David was tasked with updating the Contract Management Department’s process map, which required her to first understand how contracts moved through the university’s Kuali Financial System (KFS) and how to use JAGGAER software.

“The original process map had many steps that were no longer accurate, including tasks for a team that had been replaced by the Shared Services Center, with adjusted responsibilities,” said Ben-David. “JAGGAER had been adopted by the division two years earlier and I leveraged that software platform to significantly streamline contract development and alter the contract workflow.”

The updated 2024 process map reflects how contracts move through KFS to JAGGAER and back, accurately represents the Shared Service Center’s current responsibilities, and provides tracking for the contract at each stage of its lifecycle.

To familiarize herself with JAGGAER software features and the path of a contract in the KFS system, Ben-David uploaded several contracts onto designated test websites, analyzed the original contract workflow, and utilized Microsoft Visio to document the different contract processes. “Using these examples, I was able to successfully develop a JAGGAER-implemented workflow for Cornell University’s Contract Management Department,” she said.

Ben-David, a senior Business Administration major at the University at Buffalo, discovered the summer opportunity through Cornell’s Alliance for Diversity and Inclusion Student Intern Program and said it helped shape her career aspirations. “As a student specializing in finance and data analytics, this internship had a significant impact on me by exposing me to business fields I hadn’t previously considered, such as procurement and consulting. It broadened my understanding of various industries, which will be extremely valuable as I apply for full-time positions after graduation.”

She recommends students interested in pursuing an ADI internship thoroughly research open positions and explore departments that pique their interest.  “Even though I had no prior experience in contract management, I applied for the internship because I saw it as a valuable opportunity to broaden my skill set and gain exposure to new areas,” Ben-David said.

“Once you’re in the internship, prioritize over-communication with your supervisors. If you’re unsure about your next task or need clarification on a process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your supervisor. They will support you throughout your internship and can provide valuable guidance and insights. Lastly, engaging with other interns is an excellent way to network and learn from their experiences.”