Summer is a busy time for HES students to complete internships. This series will spotlight students and their intern experiences.
Student: Kelcy Perry
Major: Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles
Internship Location: Target
What is your typical day as an intern? Normally to start my day off I check my email and the store reports. After I get caught up on the expectations for the day, I take a walk on the floor. I do this to see what the condition of the sales floor is and what work needs to be done out there. After this, I work on online training, do a special project, or attend a weekly meeting that the executive team leaders and store team leaders have on Mondays. Along with those things we are continuously taking laps around the store to keep up with what is going on, helping guests, following up with team members and making sure the tasks for the day are being completed. To finish off my days I send out a recap email to the executive team leaders and store team leaders.
How are you using the applying classroom knowledge in your internship? Since my internship is in retail, I merchandise products many times. In class we learned a lot about balance, focus and spacing. Having that knowledge has helped me be able to set it as if I were a customer and know what they are looking for and what makes the product look better through their eyes.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship? I have learned that your career is not about making friendships; it is about being respectful and kind to fellow employees but also demonstrating courage and handing out tasks appropriately. You do not want to be a drill sergeant but still want the respect to know that if you ask someone to do something they will take it seriously and accomplish it with flying colors.
What advice would you share with other students who are preparing to complete an internship? Take LOTS of notes as you go!!! I've filled up almost half a notebook in the first two weeks and just writing it down helps you remember things better.