Gwendolyn Elsey, a supply chain management and marketing management graduate at Ship, and now an MBA student, enjoyed a summer filled with pivotal learning experiences. Through Dr. Ian Langella, professor of supply chain management, Elsey learned about the operations internship opportunity at Ulta Beauty’s Chambersburg Distribution Center. Elsey pursued this opportunity, allowing her the ability to expand upon her knowledge of supply chain operations.
During Elsey’s Ulta glow internship, she learned how to manage operations in a fast-paced and complex environment. She assisted with managerial tasks, such as leading morning start-up sessions – where she directed a team of 40 people. She participated in manager meetings, learning how to be an effective leader. She was put to the test when an operations manager unexpectedly left to pursue another career opportunity. During this time, Elsey quickly adapted to an increase in responsibilities.
Faced with the unpredictable nature of the receiving department, where schedules were subject to change at any moment, she learned what it means to have true confidence in her decision-making and the importance of learning from mistakes.
“This internship experience has equipped me with practical skills and insights that will significantly contribute to my future endeavors in the supply chain and operations field,” she said.
One major highlight of her internship was the trip to Ulta’s headquarters in Bolingbrook, Illinois. During learning sessions and luncheons, Elsey had the opportunity to network with employees across various departments, connect with other interns and gain insights into the history and mission of Ulta Beauty. The company set up a Q&A session for interns with the executive board and CEO, Dave Kimball, receiving personalized advice from top industry leaders.
“I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with Dave Kimball 1:1, who remembered me for a question I asked during the Q&A session and he asked me questions about Ship and my studies,” she said.
Ulta Beauty glow intern conference at headquarters in Bolingbrook, IL.
At the end of the 10-week internship, Elsey presented in front of fellow interns, senior management and Erick Lopez, the chief supply chain officer at Ulta Beauty. She noted that although this experience was nerve-wracking, it was equally exciting.
“Overall, my time at Ulta was exceptional for networking, leadership development and discovering my leadership style. Despite Ulta being a large company, they genuinely invest in their interns and value their contributions. This internship not only prepared me for my career but also allowed me to build lasting connections that will undoubtedly be beneficial as I move forward. If you have the chance to intern at Ulta Beauty, I would say go for it—you won’t regret it,” Elsey said.
In addition to her role as a glow intern, Elsey is a graduate assistant for the John L. Grove College of Business, where she manages social media efforts. She also serves as a sports photographer for the Sports Media and Information Office and was formerly a member of the Ship swim team.
“Balancing my studies, work and extracurricular commitments has provided me with a well-rounded experience that I believe companies are looking for when looking to hire new talent,” said Elsey.
Elsey’s drive toward academic, professional and personal success represents what Ship is all about, and the university is honored to highlight student accomplishments across the board.
