Molly Manning

Major: Apparel, Merchandising, and Design
Company/Organization: Free People
Company/Organization website: https://www.freepeople.com
Destination: Oak Brook, Illinois
Timeframe: Sumer 2022
Advisor/Coordinator Email: briaj

Responsibilities

As a key holder I collaborate with the management team in supervision of store operations functions and leading an environment that is engaging and inspiring to the customer and team. This includes driving sales, building awareness of key metrics, and contributing to the development of others.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment so far during my internship experience is getting promoted to fulfill the assistant store manager position for the remainder of my internship. My internship supervisor has seen my potential and is confident in my ability to fulfill the role.

Learning experience

The greatest lessons I've learned from my experience thus far serving on the management team is the importance of acting as an elevated team member. This consists of exercising decision-making and multi tasking capabilities while always prioritizing service over tasks. I've also learned in a quick amount of time that your hard work, even when you think no one is watching, pays off and is noticed.

What advice would you give?

My best piece of advice I have for future students in my major is to start seeking out internship opportunities early. Take rejection as redirection, try not to get discouraged, things will fall into place. Take advantage of resources around you by networking, connecting, and seeking out advice from professionals in the industry.

Career Connections