Student Spotlight: James Hollis

Senior James Hollis, from Rutherfordton, NC, will soon complete his degree in Supply Chain Management. He tells us about his internship experience at Lowe’s corporate office.

How did you learn about your internship?
Lee Brown (Director of the College of Business Career Center) sent out an email and I applied immediately for multiple positions. A week or two later I received an email and phone call about an interview for two different internship positions.

How did the College of Business prepare you for this successful internship?
By showing me the best way to be the best me.  It taught me how to be a business professional.  It also taught me different aspects of business on a whole.  Lastly it prepared me to be patient but then to take action when it is time to be productive.

Describe your experience at this company?
I love Lowe’s.  This company allowed me to grow not only in the supply chain field but in the business world. I was able to make new connections with people – from call center workers to directors and VP’s of different branches in the company. Also, I loved how members in the company treat people like family and want the best for them no matter what position they are in.

What was the moment during your internship you knew that your ECU COB education had paid off?
As soon as I sat in my cubicle, I felt that the impact from the COB helped me.  When preparing for my final presentation, I definitely put the things I learned in the classroom into play.  I presented a 20-minute presentation in front of some of the biggest members in the supply chain branch in the company. I felt that Business 1200 preparation kick in and remembered everything Ms. Spriggs taught me about preparation and presentations.

Why would you recommend a business student take advantage of an internship opportunity?
These opportunities help you not only get business experience, but help you decide if the field your majoring in is the correct fit for you. I know some students tell me that their experience this summer showed them that they don’t want to be a marketing or accounting major for example, so I believe internships are very important!

We understand this internship materialized into a full-time job opportunity.  Congratulations! What will you be doing?
I will be working with Lowes Corporate Office in Mooresville, NC working as an Inventory Fulfillment Specialist. I’ll be ordering products and working on helping vendors solve all concerns they may have.

What would be the one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you?
Outside of being a supply chain major, I have an online Arbitrage.  I buy sell and trade sneakers.  Last week I made over a thousand dollars in profit from sneaker sells! This hobby allows me to use my business/ entrepreneur skills and to grow those skills while working with things I enjoy.