Official Intern Month is almost coming to a close!
Last Friday you met Tim, a third year design student interning in the New York office. This week, we want to introduce you to James. Originally from Cupertino, California, James started interning at Method San Francisco in November 2011. In March he converted to full-time, working on the Insights team where he helps to address business needs through research, facilitated problem-solving, and structured thinking. Get to know him better below!
What sparked your interest in the Method internship program?
Serendipity. I was a graduate student at California College of the Arts (Design MBA) and a professor introduced Method as an awesome experience design firm in the city. An alum of my program had previously worked there as Design Researcher, so I picked his brain and got a lot of great feedback. Then coincidentally, Patrick Newbery – one of the co-founders and principals – spoke in my class days later. His articulation of design, business, and innovation fascinated me. I subsequently spoke with principals Jason Meil and Paul Valerio and was just blown away by their expertise. Method happened to be looking for an Insights intern, so I went for it and fortunately things worked out.
What program were you a part of?
Insights. We utilize research methods to provide at actionable insights for clients and their brands, products, and services.
Did anything surprise you about Method when you first started?
The laid back but incredibly sharp vibe, the open space, and the amount of gangster rap and old school R&B (I mean like All-4-One-and-Jodeci old) played throughout the day. Not a surprise, but the bathroom fully stocked with soap from the “other Method” [the home cleaning supplies company] was a nice touch.
What’s it like to have gone from being an intern to a full-time employee?
Couldn’t agree more with Dever. There wasn’t much of a change aside from signing some papers. Everyone was seriously cool and welcoming from day one and expectations were set right, so that one takes on the responsibilities and mindset of a full-time before becoming one.
If the Method kitchen could keep an endless supply of any type of food, what would you want?
My officemates would give me a lot of smack for this, but I’m not afraid to say it: Panda Express. Specifically, their chow mein and orange chicken. And some Beijing Beef to wash all of that down. Thanks, Kevin!
What are we most likely to catch you doing outside of work time?
The dougie. Blowdrying my hair (it’s kind of long) while watching TED Talks. These days, reading up on Burning Man (going for the first time this year, any tips welcome!). And on the more eclectic side, reading (currently The Dead Emcee Scrolls), doodling (with Copics), and watching Nikita the TV series (a great show, give it a try).
Favorite Method memory so far?
There are many…during my first week at Method, there was an office happy hour event at a local karaoke joint. Think Coyote Ugly, but with men and “Take On Me.” Yeah, it was a fun night.
Want to apply for a Method internship? Check out our Job Opportunities!