Filip Manjevic, COL ’26, Helsingborg, Sweden
This summer, I embarked on a remarkable journey with Reforma, an e-commerce store headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. They specialize in bringing stylish furniture to the doorsteps of customers across Sweden, Norway, and Germany. As I look back over the span of 15 enriching weeks, I realize that this experience has gifted me a deep dive into the fascinating world of e-commerce, far beyond what I initially anticipated.
Driven by a thirst for hands-on experience in a thriving industry, my decision to join Reforma was rooted in the wish to unravel the intricacies of e-commerce operations. From day one, I wanted to understand the entire journey—how a product transforms from an idea to a tangible item in the hands of eager customers. My adventure led me to explore the intricate cogs and wheels behind an established e-commerce store, shedding light on the meticulous planning and execution that goes into every successful online transaction.
Throughout all of the experiences that happened during my time at Reforma, one particular memory stands out. It was the launch of a campaign revolving around home office furniture—a topic that hit close to home for many in these evolving times. Navigating this dynamic initiative wasn’t just exciting; it was a real-time lesson in keeping pace with the rapid changes of the industry. I learned to juggle multiple tasks while maintaining a level-headed approach, a skill I believe will serve me well wherever my journey takes me next.
The core of any e-commerce venture lies in its ability to deliver products seamlessly to customers’ doorsteps. It’s here that I encountered a captivating revelation—the crucial role of shipping. With a major focus on managing costs, ensuring precise delivery, and ironing out any hitches that came in the way, I quickly realized that shipping was much more than just sending off packages. This hands-on experience reinforced the significance of careful attention to every facet of the process, guaranteeing customer satisfaction and laying the foundation for long-lasting relationships.
As my internship chapter draws to a close, I find myself at the crossroads of reflection and anticipation. While I’m not certain if my path will forever be aligned with e-commerce, the invaluable lessons I’ve gathered have left a great mark on my understanding of this complex industry. The insights into efficiency, the essence of customer-centricity, and the adaptability required in the ever-shifting e-commerce landscape have undeniably expanded my skill set. In a nutshell, my time at Reforma over the past 15 weeks has been nothing short of remarkable. It’s been a real adventure, filled with learning, challenges, and unexpected discoveries. As I step into the next chapter, I’m armed with more experience and a strong sense of appreciation for what’s to come.
This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2023 Career Services Summer Funding Grant. We’ve asked funding recipients to reflect on their summer experiences and talk about the industries in which they spent their summer. You can read the entire series here.
