1. Research and Understand Align Technology’s Mission
Align Technology is an innovative leader in digital dentistry and orthodontics, known for its medical devices like Invisalign.Based on functionality, models or equations, whichever you are at ease with like i.e. pivot tables, VLOOKUP and financial models. Detailhttps://www.businessinsider.com/google-workspace-chief-stepping-down-leaked-memo-2024-11ed orientation: indciate the importance “meticulous attention to detail” has on the effectiveness of budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting. From innovating with technology to ensure better outcomes for patients, this philosophy proves true even in the financial implementation of their business model. In your process of applying, show you know how much Align’s mission and core values (i.e. innovation, integrity and excellence) match your own career goals in finance.
Tip: Frame your understanding of the company’s mission in relation to the responsibilities of a finance intern. This will help you emphasize how your goals intersect with Align’s work.
2. Highlight Relevant Coursework and Skills
Align will look for candidates with a solid foundation in finance and accounting principles. Be prepared to discuss your university coursework or certifications, especially if you’ve studied:
- Corporate Finance
- Financial Accounting
- Investment Analysis
- Managerial Accounting
- Economics
Key Skills to Emphasize:
- Analytical Skills: As a finance intern, you will likely analyze financial statements and reports to provide insights on performance and budget allocation.
- Excel Proficiency: Many financial analyses will be conducted using Excel. Include specific functions, models, or formulas you’re comfortable with (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and financial modeling).
3. Connect with Align Technology’s Focus Areas
For a finance internship at Align, it’s essential to link your experience to areas where you could make an impact:
For a finance internship at Align, you should connect your experience with these areas you may have impact:
Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A): The finance teams at Align are likely working on receiving budgets, forecasting and supporting the company growth strategies. Highlight any work with tracking, forecasting, or variance analysis against budgets.
Core Financial Engineering: The company is always looking for ways to boost profitability. Be prepared to speak about the ways in which you can help inform Aligns longterm strategic planning with analytical skills.
- Project-Based Contributions: Showcase experience in projects requiring financial analysis, such as university club budgets, research projects, or case competitions.
4. Demonstrate Passion for Technology and Healthcare
Working in a company like Align requires enthusiasm for healthcare innovation and technology. Express any experiences or interests you have in these fields:
- Describe a class or project related to healthcare technology.
Discuss recent trends in healthcare finance, such as the growing adoption of digital tools to monitor financial performance.
If you have been to related seminars, workshops, or webinars, note that here too as a sign of continuing interest.
5. Ability to work in a group and collaborate with each other
Align’s work culture emphasizes collaboration across departments. Finance interns will likely interact with marketing, product, and operations teams. Include instances where:
They may be aware of your cross-functional experience communicating financial information to non-finance stakeholders.
Group project management experience where collaboration and consensus are essential
- You’ve helped others understand finance-related tasks or tools.
6. Demonstrate that Data-Driven Mindset
In Finance roles data analytics has become an integral aspect of decision-making. Highlight experience with data analysis tools or methodologies:
Experience with Excel, Power BI, or Tableau will set you apart even more.
If you have worked using financial databases such as Bloomberg or Thomson Reuters then do highlight it.
Discuss example(s) of using data to drive projections, models, or performance assessments; tools, methods, approach(es), etc. as well as resulting decisions based on those.
7. Problem-Solving Examples
Align appreciates employees who can think critically and solve problems. You can provide examples from:
- Academic projects where you tackled complex financial problems.
- Work or internship experiences where you suggested process improvements.
- Personal achievements demonstrating resilience, analytical thinking, and a structured approach to solving challenges.
8. Express a Willingness to Learn and Adapt
Be willing to learn and adjust As an intern, you will be introduced to new tools, projects, and challenges. It is important to express a growth mindset. Use phrases like:
