Merchandising Internship Program - Summer 2026 (new York, NY)

Merchandising Intern - Summer 2026

As a Merchandising Intern at AEO, Inc. you will be partnered with a Merchant in either AE or Aerie and spend 10 weeks learning what it takes to create, edit and produce the assortment that ends up in stores. Merchants act as the hub of the wheel and project manage an assortment from initial concept, through design, onto production and ultimately into our customers' shopping bags. This role requires not only a passion for retail and trend, but also a very strong analytical and business acumen. If you love trends, but have a passion for business, this is the role for you.

Assist in preparing daily sales recaps and analyze performance trends to inform business strategies

Conduct competitor analysis and comp shopping to identify product and market trends

Gain exposure to the business recap process and learn how to craft clear, data-driven trend stories

Support sample trafficking using internal systems, check-ins, and coordination with relevant teams

Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to gather a holistic view of the business

Present milestone projects and final intern project with insights to Merchandising leadership

Attend and contribute to classes, team meetings, connecting learnings to real-world applications

On-the-Job training with assignments guided by an individual Mentor

Classroom learning

Individual and group projects incorporating both product and financials

Roundtables with top level executives

Bi-weekly self-evaluations to understand progress throughout program

Pre-planned events in New York to explore the city that AEO loves to call home!

Opportunity for full-time offer in Assistant Merchant Training Program upon successful completion

Rising Senior at a 4 year college or university, pursuing a Business Related Degree

Minimum 3.0 GPA required

Passion for retail and knowledge of the AEO Inc. family of brands

Understanding of fashion trends and how they relate to the AE/aerie customer

Strong business acumen gained through classes, internships or prior work experience

Excellent written & verbal communication, presentation and interpersonal skills

Highly organized with the ability to prioritize and problem solve in a fast-paced work environment

Demonstrated collaborative skills and team-oriented mindset

Self-starter with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting

Highly Proficient in MS Office Suite, specifically Excel

Must be local to the AEO Home Office in New York, NY for the duration of the 10 week internship

Generous Associate Discount!

Summer Fridays!

Relocation Assistance

Volunteer Opportunities

Learning & Development

Career Exploration + Networking Events

Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.

Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.

Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service. For additional information, please click here.

AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.