Beyond the internship: Shifting the conversation with MacKenzie Woodley

Growing up, I was pushed to pursue a career in dentistry as my grandfather was an oral surgeon. Stability and a good income were cornerstones of this path, and for most of my undergraduate years, I diligently followed suit. However, my journey took an unexpected turn. Shadowing dentists revealed a crucial disconnect – the limited interaction within this profession didn’t resonate with me. My true passion lay in understanding others and fostering interpersonal connections, leading me to shift from a pre-dentistry track to the fascinating world of industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology.

The first psychology class I took in high school sparked a fire within me. The intricate workings of the human mind captivated me, and I knew I had to delve deeper. This led me to pursue psychology as my major throughout my collegiate career, fueling a love for learning that continues to this day. My undergraduate studies were followed by two master’s degrees, one in counseling and the other in industrial-organizational psychology.

My I-O psychology background has proven invaluable in navigating the dynamic world of technology. This field focuses on the psychology of work, specifically how individuals and teams interact within an organizational setting. Throughout my internship at Sabre, the skills I honed through my educational journey have come into sharp focus. My knowledge of group dynamics helps me effectively communicate and collaborate across diverse teams, whether they are on the technical, sales or support teams.

Working on a global team at Sabre has been an enriching experience, allowing me to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I leverage my psychology skills daily, helping me connect with everyone and understand their individual perspectives. I strive to ensure everyone feels valued and heard, creating a more positive and productive work environment, and ultimately contributing to Sabre’s success.

Embracing a passion that ignites your curiosity has been one of the most rewarding lessons in my journey. While some paths seem preordained, the beauty lies in uncovering what truly fuels your inner drive.

The initial switch from psychology to technology was daunting, but following my heart led me to a career filled with purpose and fulfillment. The skills I have acquired not only bring me joy, but also enable me to make a positive impact during my internship at Sabre.

To my younger self, I would say, “Trust your passions, for they can be the guiding light on your path to success.”

Sabre is shifting the conversation with stories from curious, bold and committed team members globally. Throughout our internship program, we prioritize hands-on experience, empowering interns to develop new skillsets, pursue passions and explore out-of-the-box solutions. Learn more about how you can kick start your career at Sabre by checking out our internship opportunities.