Rattlers on the Rise: Miami Native Finds His ‘Crowning Jewel’ Internship with STARZ
TALLAHASSEE, Fl. — For Miami native and computer science scholar Chiyle Briggins, an internship with the television network and streaming service STARZ wasn’t just another line on a résumé — it was the opportunity he had been working toward since arriving at Florida A&M University (FAMU).
A proud member of the Class of 2025, the Liberty City native is currently serving as a data engineering intern with STARZ, a company that partners with FAMU to recruit top talent from the Department of Computer and Information Sciences.
“This internship is the crowning jewel for me,” Briggins said. “It’s the first time I’ve gotten such an in-depth look at the technologies and software that are becoming standard in the industry. I’ve worked other internships before, but this one feels like a perfect match.”
From Perseverance to Opportunity
Although recruitment for technical internships often begins up to a year in advance, a series of hurricanes caused delays in FAMU’s career fair schedule, forcing Briggins to adapt quickly.
“I was applying nonstop — like, five to 10 applications a night. I made Excel spreadsheets just to keep track. It got discouraging when I wasn’t hearing back,” he said. “But I stayed with it. I didn’t let myself go to sleep without applying to at least a few more.”
That persistence paid off. While volunteering at a food drive with his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., in partnership with the Urban League, he received the call from STARZ — he got the internship.
Briggins credits Terrial Brown, the corporate liaison for the Department of Computer and Information Sciences and a pivotal force in student career development, for connecting him to the opportunity.
“She does an amazing job making sure we’re tapped in,” he said. “She helps us get our résumés out and get in touch with recruiters. She’s been a major part of this journey.”
From Liberty City to Colorado
The internship began with a two-week assignment at STARZ’s office in the Denver-Greenwood area of Colorado, giving Briggins not only hands-on experience but also insight into a lifestyle he had never experienced before.
“I’ve never had the opportunity to go out West. It really opened my eyes to what life after college could look like,” Briggins said. “I’m from Liberty City, so being out in Colorado was a huge change of pace.”
Now working remotely from Tallahassee, he remains immersed in the data and products team, learning critical tools, earning certifications and contributing to impactful projects. The internship runs through Aug. 15.
A Message to Future Interns
Briggins encourages fellow Rattlers — especially those pursuing careers in STEM — to apply for internships, even if they feel uncertain or underqualified.
“My advice? You can do it. I know that sounds simple, but that’s really the truth,” he said. “Don’t get caught up thinking the person next to you is more prepared. Just apply. Put your foot out there and figure it out later. That’s how you grow.”
His journey through multiple internships — including stints with Liberty Mutual, Medtronic and now STARZ has prepared him to face the professional world with confidence. He hopes to land a post-graduate role in software or data engineering, ideally in Dallas, a city he’s been eyeing as a potential home base.
A Strong Network and Stronger Faith
As he nears graduation, Briggins reflects on the people and principles that have helped shape his success.
“I have to thank God first,” he said. “And I have the best support system — my fraternity brothers, my Big Brother Little Brother’ brothers, my girlfriend, my mom — they all push me to be better every day. They’ve helped me stay grounded and focused.”
Known among his peers for his intentionality and planning, Briggins is already working toward aligning his values, location and career goals. Whether it’s staying with STARZ or exploring other opportunities, he’s confident in what lies ahead.
“FAMU and my internships have shown me that I’m capable — that this isn’t some far-off
dream,” he said. “It’s real. I’m living it now. And I want to keep paying it forward
for those who come after me.”
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
