On trend and on track at WMU Haworth
KALAMAZOO, Mich.— For senior Mariah Mauldin, Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business is where supply meets style. Hailing from Belleville, Michigan, the marketing and supply chain management student has created a seamless blend of professional opportunities and passion through her internships, student organization work and study abroad experience.
Last summer, Mauldin wove together both her skills and interests through an internship with Kohl’s. Working as an inventory analyst intern, Mauldin’s main responsibilities included managing inventory across Sephora at Kohl’s 855 stores, tracking product launches, preparing weekly presentations of top-selling products and working on developing strategies that improved stock availability for all locations.
“The internship gave me the opportunity to explore multiple facets of merchandising and retail operations. I was particularly drawn to the role because of my passion for data analysis and my interest in understanding how inventory directly impacts customer satisfaction, company profitability and customer loyalty. Additionally, the internship fostered my desire to pursue a career in buying by providing me with direct experience working with buyers and planners in the office.”
At WMU Haworth, Mauldin has found community. She’s served on the executive board of the WMU National Retail Federation (NRF) chapter, which operates within the Supply Chain Management Association, where she has had remarkable opportunities to widen her breadth of expertise.
“Each year, students have the chance to attend the NRF Conference in New York, where they can network with top retail companies and gain immersive experience in the retail industry. I had the privilege of attending the conference in January of last year. I was able to connect with talented students from universities across the country, attend company tours, network with top executives and CEOs from leading companies and gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic world of retail.”
Mauldin also participated in the Business and Culture in Germany study abroad program, which provided a firsthand look into the world of international business. “We visited seven different cities, ate lots of German food and visited the Montblanc Haus and Volkswagen headquarters,” she says. “Additionally, I will be studying abroad this May in Thailand, and I am excited to travel around Bangkok, try Thai food and connect with the other students.”
Looking ahead, Mauldin has secured a summer internship with Ross Dress for Less in New York City, where she will be working as an assistant buying intern. Taking stock of her academic career, she has this advice for fellow business students.
“Don’t be afraid to join clubs or study abroad during your first year. These experiences help you build lasting connections with fellow students, professors and professionals across diverse industries. Take advantage of all WMU Haworth has to offer and, most importantly, give yourself grace. College can feel very foreign at the beginning, and that is the best time to explore and take advantage of every opportunity.”
Learn more about supply chain management and marketing at WMU.
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