Internship Spotlight: Growing Through Operations and Marketing at Carvel Franchise

By Anish Biju Soman

During my internship as an Operations and Marketing Manager at Carvel, I’ve had the opportunity to explore how small businesses thrive, build loyal communities, and operate efficiently behind the scenes. The experience has been foundational for my professional growth, and I’m excited to share some key takeaways.

What has been one of the most important things you’ve learned at your internship?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the significance of relationships in a small business environment. I saw firsthand how strongly customer loyalty impacts daily operations—how far people travel, how consistently they return, and how deeply they connect not just with the products, but with the business owners and employees. These relationships, built on trust and familiarity, are what keep a local business thriving.

How have you approached networking at your internship?

Networking at Carvel has happened very naturally. Many clients are incredibly supportive and genuinely invested in the growth of young professionals like myself. One particularly impactful experience was when a long-time customer, impressed with my work ethic and curiosity, connected me to multiple interview opportunities. These interactions reminded me that meaningful networking doesn’t always happen at formal events—it often starts with small, everyday conversations.

What has been your biggest contribution to your team?

My most significant contribution has been in team building and improving operational efficiency. By analyzing inventory and supply data from previous years—including seasonal and holiday demand patterns—I helped optimize workflows, reduce waste, and maintain consistent product quality. Additionally, I contributed to creating standard operating procedures (SOPs), which streamlined tasks and made training new employees easier and more effective.

After this experience, what would you like to learn next?

This internship opened my eyes to the impact that well-organized systems can have on a business. Going forward, I want to deepen my understanding of operational strategy—especially forecasting, lean operations, and technology-based efficiency tools. I’m also interested in expanding my marketing skills to better understand how local businesses can grow through customer engagement and digital outreach.

What advice would you give to students struggling to find an internship?

Be friendly, be helpful, and don’t underestimate the power of simply showing up as someone willing to contribute. Use your skills wherever you can, even in small ways, and keep talking to people about your goals. Networking isn’t just about handing out résumés—it’s about forming real connections, being reliable, and staying open to opportunities. With persistence and authenticity, your hard work will take you where you need to go.