Hometown: Kent City, Michigan, USA
Major and class standing: ATD, Senior
Instagram: @lolofreel
Where you interned: Marmot, Rohnert Park, California
What was your internship title and role/responsibilities?
As a Tech Apparel Merchandising Intern, my job was to essentially research new sustainable initiatives and present findings to the company. I also would assist with daily design, textiles, product, merchandising, and sustainability meetings and side projects.
How did you obtain your internship? What resources did you utilize to secure your internship?
I reached out to an employee through LinkedIn about possible internships at Marmot and she sent me the application. After a few meetings with other employees I got a call with the internship offer.
What did your daily routine include?
I usually had two to three meetings a day to attend whether it was sitting in on fabric selections to having one on one check ins with co-workers and managers. I had smaller daily tasks attending to the product information system alongside doing sustainability research for my final presentation at the end of the summer.
Your favorite experience from the internship?
I loved exploring Northern California and getting some awesome recommendations from co-workers on things to do while I was out there. Internships are great opportunities to explore new places and future career ideas. I really enjoyed meeting the people I worked with all summer and beginning to feel like a part of the team.
What was your least favorite part of the internship?
I think the most difficult part of the internship was adjusting to all of the new responsibilities across the country away from friends and family. I enjoyed the challenge but it was definitely tricky to adapt on my own.
What skills did you learn and/or build upon during your internship?
I built upon my communication skills and was able to learn how to use a new online database system for apparel and equipment. I learned what it takes to bring a season of new products to market while managing side projects and being in constant communication with co-workers.
What did you learn about the industry or your career path as a result of the internship? What are your future plans?
I learned a ton about what the fashion industry looks like up close – not just what you learn about in classes. This experience has allowed me to see that being a sustainable designer at a corporate company is something I want to continue pursuing. It has also opened the door to new ideas concerning a master’s degree and other future opportunities.
What advice do you have for other students seeking out internship opportunities?
If you are passionate about finding an internship somewhere, you have to be the one to make it happen. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people on LinkedIn and network. So many people are willing to talk to you and help if you show how eager you are to make it happen.
