WASHINGTON, PA (June 25, 2019)—Washington & Jefferson College (W&J) senior Kevin Bergen ’20 wanted an internship that utilized both his Computer & Information Studies and Psychology majors. He found it as a UX (User Experience) Research Intern with Vineyard Vines in Stamford, Conn.
During his internship, Kevin is working to understand the clothing retailer’s consumer experience with the brand’s online presence and look for ways to make improvements.
“My job is to understand user behaviors, needs, and motivations. To do so, I conduct a variety of research studies utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Most of my research is revolved around the usability of the Vineyard Vines web platform,” Kevin said.
W&J has supported Kevin through every step of his journey. Academics at the College and funding from W&J’s J. Robert Maxwell ’43 Internship Endowment Fund gave Kevin the ability to jump right into his work without financial stress.
“[W&J’s] various scholarships for students seeking internships encouraged me to find the very best internship I could without worrying about money,” Kevin said. “This is the second year that the Maxwell family has funded my internship. Without their kindness, I wouldn’t have been able to have either experience.”
Getting professional experience has not only supplemented Kevin’s classroom education, it’s given him clarity on what career he’d like to pursue following his graduation next spring.
“I am more certain than ever that I want to work in UX due to this internship, so I plan on applying to masters/PhD programs in Human-Computer Interaction, as well as UX Research jobs,” he said. “Regardless of which path I end up on, this internship will help me immensely.”
About Washington & Jefferson College
Washington & Jefferson College, located in Washington, Pa., is a selective liberal arts college founded in 1781. Committed to providing each of its students with the highest-quality undergraduate education available, W&J offers a traditional arts and sciences curriculum emphasizing interdisciplinary study and independent study work. For more information about W&J, visit dsfubchp.bydcct.com, or call 888-W-AND-JAY.
