Name: Meg Rogan
Major(s): Psychology & Communication
Class Year: Senior
Organization Name: Crate & Barrel
Intern Title: Talent & Organizational Development (HR) Intern
Describe your internship roles, responsibilities and significant contributions.
Over the summer, I was responsible for creating a mentoring program for Crate & Barrel corporate employees. I was nervous yet excited to take on this task, and I knew that my manager and fellow interns were there to support me. Throughout this process, I conversed with several higher-ups to understand the business needs. Additionally, I conducted research on other companies’ mentoring programs and best practices around mentoring. At the end of my internship, I had the opportunity to present the mentoring program I designed to Crate & Barrel leadership. The mentoring program launched a couple of weeks ago, and I’m excited that all my hard work paid off!
How did your internship aid in your career exploration or decision making?
Through my internship, I was able to explore other areas within the business in addition to Human Resources. I actually realized that I wanted to be in a role that is more customer-focused than HR which was internally concentrated. Over the course of 10 weeks, my manager helped me set up meetings with employees (within Crate & Barrel and with other companies) in other fields like corporate communications and marketing. I ended up becoming interested in marketing and, at the conclusion of my internship, I was offered a full-time marketing position at Crate upon my graduation from Denison. I was so excited to accept!
What advice do you have for future interns?
My advice to future interns is to be really present through the experience and take a lot of time to reflect on the experiences you are having. At the end of each workday, I asked myself “what did I just learn?” This helped me understand the HR field better as well as my feelings about it. I also advise future interns to know that the company’s employers really want you to succeed and discover what interests you. Communicate honestly (and respectfully) about your experience, and be sure to ask lots of questions! My manager was very happy to connect me with other professionals.
Aside from your internship, are there other tools, resources or programs that have supported your career exploration?
The coaches at the Knowlton Center have been a huge help in my career exploration– from looking over cover letters and resumes to giving me feedback on mock interviews. Furthermore, I am a part of Women in Business which has supported my professional development and allowed me to learn from other females entering the corporate world. There are so many resources at Denison that can help you with your career exploration and development; be sure to utilize them during your time here!
