A Summer of Innovation and Learning: My STEM Externship Experience

This summer, I embarked on an incredible journey that combined my passion for STEM with the creative world of design and entrepreneurship. My externship took me into the heart of a unique venture led by Lindsey Carmichael, an orthopedic physician assistant who transitioned into the role of a shoe designer. Lindsey’s mission was to create orthopedic footwear that not only supported feet but also looked and felt great. Here’s a look at what I did and learned during this transformative experience.

Exploring the Intersection of Healthcare and Design

The externship began with an immersive introduction to Lindsey’s innovative approach to orthopedic shoe design. What struck me most was how Lindsey’s background in healthcare influenced her design philosophy. She was determined to address the practical needs of those with foot issues while ensuring the shoes were stylish and desirable. It was inspiring to see someone bridge the gap between medical expertise and consumer fashion.

Diving into Backend Applications with Shopify

A significant portion of my time was spent working on the backend applications of Shopify, which is crucial for any Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) company. I learned how Shopify’s platform can be leveraged to enhance business operations, from managing inventory to optimizing the user experience. This was particularly valuable as I worked on improving the return and exchange process for the company.

Streamlining the Return/Exchange Process

One of my key projects was to refine the return and exchange process. By analyzing current practices and identifying areas for improvement, I helped develop a more streamlined process. This not only improved customer satisfaction but also enhanced overall service quality. It was gratifying to see how small changes could significantly impact the customer experience.

Enhancing Customer Feedback with Okendo

Understanding customer feedback is vital for any business, so I worked with Okendo to solidify our customer review system. I helped ensure that feedback was gathered effectively and used constructively. This involved setting up review prompts and analyzing responses to better understand customer needs and preferences.

Fit Testing and Design Communication

Fit testing was another critical aspect of my externship. I conducted various tests to assess how well the shoes fit different foot shapes and sizes. This information was crucial for relaying accurate fit and design feedback to our developers, ensuring that the final products met high standards of comfort and functionality.

Promoting Soleni Shoes at a Trade Show

One of the highlights of my externship was attending a shoe show where we promoted Soleni Shoes. I assisted with organizing line sheets, which are essential for order placements, and helped with general organization and design elements. This experience was eye-opening, as it showed me the importance of effective presentation and networking in the fashion industry.

Reflections and Growth

My externship was a blast and a remarkable learning opportunity. I gained hands-on experience in both the technical and creative aspects of a growing company. Through this journey, I improved my communication and problem-solving skills and gained a deeper understanding of the design and redesign process. The experience also taught me about the importance of integrating customer feedback and maintaining high standards in product development.

Overall, working with Lindsey Carmichael and the Soleni Shoes team was an unforgettable experience. It reinforced my passion for STEM and design and provided me with invaluable insights into the dynamic world of footwear innovation. I’m excited to carry forward the skills and knowledge I gained into my future endeavors.