Leticia Madrigal interned at HomeGoods Distribution Center, supporting the Labor Management System while building skills in logistics coordination, data accuracy, and team communication.
How did you get your internship?
I discovered this internship through my current employer, where I have been working while attending school full-time. After sharing my academic and career goals with my manager, she was supportive and encouraged me to pursue the internship track within the company. Transitioning into this role allowed me to align my work responsibilities with my education in Applied Humanities. It also made managing my school schedule much easier. This internship became an opportunity to build skills that directly connect to my career interests, especially in operations, labor systems, and human-centered management practices.
What kind of work did you do?
During my internship experience, I supported the Labor Management System (LMS) team. My work included tracking employee time, attendance, and indirect labor data to help ensure accuracy in reporting operational benchmarks. I also contributed to recordkeeping and filing processes for various departments. These tasks allowed me to develop a better understanding of how different departments collaborate across multiple functions within a large distribution center, often relying on each other to meet operational goals.
What new skills did you develop or strengthen during your internship?
During my internship, I was able to develop my problem-solving skills. I was responsible for identifying system discrepancies, which often required me to analyze data trends and think critically about what might be causing errors or inconsistencies. I also strengthened my attention to detail, particularly when tracking indirect labor hours and reviewing adjustment forms in the Labor Management System (LMS). Understanding of how different systems interact, and recording when adjustments might need to be made. In addition, I gained confidence in communicating professionally, especially when asking questions or requesting clarification on tasks I didn’t fully understand. I learned that it’s not only okay to ask questions but that doing so is often the key to preventing mistakes. This has helped me become more proactive and solutions-focused within the internship.
How did your Applied Humanities major coursework help prepare you for the internship experience?
My Applied Humanities coursework prepared me to think critically, communicate clearly, and adapt to various group dynamics. The Applied Humanities often requires group work, which I found extremely helpful during my internship because of my exposure to collaborating in team environments. The various courses in the PAH helped me reflect not just on what is being done, but why, which added a lot of value to how I approached the LMS data and workplace dynamics at the distribution center.
What was a meaningful moment you had at your internship?
One of the most meaningful experiences was participating in a community service event with TJX in partnership with Operation Warm. We helped local school students find shoes that were the right size and color for them. It was a joyful, heartwarming event that reminded me of the impact companies can have beyond their daily operations. We were able to serve 350 students and select shoes that were right for them. Being able to see their smiles made the experience worthwhile. It also showed me the importance of teamwork and community engagement values that I hope to carry into my future career.
Were there any aspects of your internship that you found challenging?
One aspect of the internship that I found particularly challenging was the early morning start times. Adjusting to such an early schedule was challenging, often having to set up multiple alarms so I could get up on time. This challenge has made me aware of the time my body needs to sleep in order but more importantly, it showed me the value of discipline and time management, including not taking on too many things. Carving out recreational time for myself for destressing was also important in having balance.
What advice do you have for other students as they begin their internship?
For students beginning their internship, I would say that they shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions, especially when starting their internship journey. It’s easy to feel like you should already know everything, but internships are about the learning experience, learning from the unknown. Asking for clarification shows initiative and helps build trust with your team and your supervisor. Also, embrace the experience as a chance to grow professionally and personally. The more open you are to learning, asking questions, and seeking clarifications, the more you'll gain from the experience.