Summer 2022 Interns

At Decode_M, maximum momentum starts with our amazing team.

We are so happy to introduce our summer 2022 interns. A unique cohort of students from different schools, a variety of majors, and diverse cultural background.

In addition to helping out with client work, the interns will be completing a summer project. Their summer project will be to work together in groups of 3 to lead a research deep dive & analysis to inform what's next in key areas of interest to the firm. They will deliver 30-40 minute long presentations to the Decode_M team providing crucial analysis from a Gen Z perspective. The research will go into our book and inform client work.

Below, our interns share some aspects of their work at Decode, how their work experience has been so far, what they are getting out of the experience, and how it's aiding their career development.

Chukwuma Orji
Cognitive Science

The experience has been really hands-on so far, and even though I’ve only been working here for two weeks, I have learned so much and really been immersed in the work we do! I have already gotten to work on several different projects, in different industries from cosmetics to politics to travel. Having to carry the same skills and ideas from one field to another really gives me the opportunity to approach each problem and concept from a unique angle. 

From working on backgrounders on newer projects to working on quarterly reports, I have gotten a good sense of the development of each project from beginning to end. Each task gets built on, used, and revisited frequently and it’s super cool to see how the early polling and brainstorming decks become part of a finished product.

Arianna Lekhraj
Applied Psychology

I have absolutely loved interning at Decode_M! Not only has the office environment been extremely welcoming and productive, but it's a step in the right direction towards a sense of normalcy in an uncertain world. 

My favorite thing about working here has been the priceless, extensive hands-on experience I've gotten almost immediately since starting. Learning about client strategy through attending client meetings and direct work on decks, surveys, and proposals has exceeded all my expectations when it came to the knowledge I'd gain during my internship. 

This work has opened the possibility of a career path in industrial psychology, which is using psychology to examine and better the work environment, which would combine my long standing passion of psychology with my newfound interest in brand strategy.

Luke Clifton
Economics and Comparative Literature

Working at the Decode office has been tremendously engaging. It is unsurprising, really. Decode has introduced me to some of the most interesting people that I have ever met. Might I add that most first-year interns would not have access to some excellent perks, such as an in-office masseuse? 

My work here — even if just for a short time — has been extremely relevant. Whether relevant to brands or the world, none of my tasks have been “busy work.” They have all been real and hands-on, which is refreshing.

Key finding: Decode_M does not mess around.

Austin Obourn
Business Management

My experience thus far has been nothing short of amazing. I have been working remotely which has posed a unique opportunity. I am constantly eager to learn and in the few weeks I’ve worked with the company a large amount of learning has taken place. In the future I am interested in pursuing a research related profession. 

This internship is teaching me more about the fundamentals of research, providing me with wonderful hands-on experience, and helping me navigate what I would like to do beyond my education. Prior to this internship I was interested in pursuing a career in financial research. Currently, I am currently rethinking this! The intrinsic work values/qualities of Decode_M that are most meaningful to me are that I am able to express myself, engage in conversation frequently, am constantly learning, creativity and autonomy are encouraged. These qualities affect how I see my value at the company in the most positive way. 

I see my value when I complete a task that is thought provoking and one I am heavily engaged in. Every task I’ve been provided with has been interesting! The entire team has been incredibly welcoming. I work closest with the Vail team and see my value most when we have in person conversations or zoom work sessions. Sharing our unique perspectives and discussing our new ideas is a valuable piece in completing a project; additionally it provides me with a better understanding of my team and a deeper appreciation for them.

David Liang
Quantitative Methods In The Social Sciences with Data Science Focus

My experience so far has been excellent, down-to-earth people, hands-on project experiences. I am beginning to see how I am driving impact on the client side, this is something that most other companies cannot offer. 

My manager has helped me settle in well very quickly. I feel valued as a member of Decode. The client portfolio at Decode is very diverse, I am gaining useful insights into different industries. I came from a consulting background, this was my first experience as a Data Science intern, and hands-on project experience was what I’ve been searching for. 

As a Data Science Intern, I can jump in between projects which enable learning experiences by discovering new skill sets, challenging assumptions, promoting innovation, and extending our inspiration as a team. This helps our team in building high-quality analyses for our clients.

Rae Kanter
Public Relations

Decode has given me an irreplaceable experience so far and has made an effort to both support me on my career path as well as push me to bring my all to work everyday. I feel that not only are the goals of the company prioritized, but my personal goals are taken into consideration as well.

I feel as if the work I do here has a larger purpose in the company and I enjoy that I can directly see the effects of my work. The skills that I am learning here could not be taught in the classroom and I have truly enjoyed working with an interdisciplinary team, so that I can further explore my interests and discover new things about myself. I feel like I am part of something bigger than myself here at Decode!