ComArtSci student, Chase Maples, spent the summer of 2021 interning at AutoZone as a user experience researcher.
During the internship, Maples' primary functions were to build user reports and interview participants to understand how consumers interact with the AutoZone website. While completing those tasks, he also performed qualitative data analyses that included affinity diagrams, tree-testing, A-B testing, and open and closed card sorting.
Although this was his first internship, Maples adjusted quickly to the professional work environment.
"One of the biggest things I learned is that you need to be adaptable when working in a corporate environment; deadlines can be fluid, or they can be very strict," Maples said. "Management will not always be there to hold your hand, so you have to dive in and do your best."
As a recent media and information graduate, Maples works for a public medical device company. There, he completes UX research and interviews qualifying participants for research for their products. He also completes usability testing with participants on their insulin pump use and app usage with their insulin therapy. The goal is to make the company's apps more efficient for its consumers by using their feedback to improve the apps.
Maples shares that college is all about making connections. His favorite memories as an MSU student involve hosting events and gatherings to have fun while networking.
Maples believes that internships are essential to have in college to succeed in the future and encourages students to seek out internships whenever possible.
"I would not be where I am without that internship experience," Maples said.
Maples would like to be a UX manager and lead a team of UX professionals in the future. His next move is to gain more experience and move to Denver, Colorado, to further his career.
By: Demetria Bias