Hughes students learn retail ropes at Macy's

The Macy's boardroom, with sweeping views of downtown and the riverfront, was all atwitter. Not with social media messaging, but with nearly 30 female teenagers, all students from Hughes STEM High School presenting final projects as part of an intercession project they'll never forget.

In its second year, the program offered high schoolers a chance to spend a week immersed in the world of retail planning and development as they worked in teams to create a new juniors department for Macy's. Their final presentations, judged by a panel of Macy's experts, included research, merchandising, store design and construction, marketing and financial plans.

"I learned a lot more than expected," says ninth-grader Makennah Searles. "I learned what the design, construction, area research and human resource areas do and how they work. We were given time to talk to them and ask questions."

Cecilia Matos, vice president and head of area research for Macy's, coordinated the program, which was created as a diversity outreach project. She explains that the benefits of the program go both ways. Macy's employees can help Hughes students learn about business strategies and making professional presentations while the students offer insights into their young customers' mindsets.

After the groups presented their findings and proposals, judges awarded a winning team while other Macy's staff compiled a list of ideas to consider for potential future implementation.

Do good:

• Get involved with Hughes. Opportunities include mentoring and helping with a creative intercession program.

• Learn more about what's going on at Hughes.

• Join the Hughes recruiting class on Facebook.

By Elissa Yancey

Photo courtesy of Macy's