All summer, the idea of writing a blog post has loomed over me. Dragging my feet because I’m not a writer, I don’t have a topic, I’m not interested (or feel particularly interesting, for that matter), that whole deal. Well, here I am, writing a blog, grasping for ideas as I begin to type. I’ve [...]

All summer, the idea of writing a blog post has loomed over me. Dragging my feet because I’m not a writer, I don’t have a topic, I’m not interested (or feel particularly interesting, for that matter), that whole deal. Well, here I am, writing a blog, grasping for ideas as I begin to type.

I’ve spent this summer working as an intern here at Blakely + Company, as a UCCS School of Business student, expected to graduate in the spring. This was my first “grown-up job,” as I refer to it, which is just as intimidating as it sounds. Walking in on my first day in May, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. Sitting here now, in August, writing this blog, I still am not sure what to expect in my future, but I am definitely feeling more confident.

Anyone with some knowledge about the marketing field knows that it is actually insanely broad, with many subcategories. When my internship began, I had this idea that through working with a full-service marketing agency for a few months and spending some time with each department, I would suddenly develop a clear picture of exactly what I would want to do with my career. While I did spend some time with each department – digital, creative, media, account services and everything in between, my own path didn’t quite fall into place like I had imagined. To the contrary, I found almost everything that I’ve gotten to observe or participate in to be so interesting that I’m even more confused about what I want to do my future. There are all of these huge worlds in the marketing field, all different but still interconnected. With several cool potential paths, how does someone make the right choice?

That’s not to say that I didn’t acquire many valuable lessons and skills this summer. My days were immersed in deciphering media flowcharts, learning the basics of Google AdWords and conducting research about competitors, logos and many other things. I learned how to create Google My Business listings and how to use campaign keywords to find appropriate stock photos for those campaigns. Some of my favorite days were spent at recording studios, video shoots and a production studio for various commercials. These are just a few examples of the many things that I got to help out with during my summer internship here at Blakely + Company.

In addition to those skills, I also learned some lessons that are a little more abstract. I’ve experienced several client meetings and the etiquette that goes along with them. When it comes to new projects, I recognized the importance of teamwork and of communication with everyone in each department of the agency. Honestly, I had no idea how much research and planning went on behind the scenes and how essential it is to every single marketing plan. Before this summer, my only experience in marketing was my college classes and let me tell you, those only show you half the picture.

This summer and my time with Blakely + Company have been incredibly valuable to me. I’ve learned and grown both as an individual and as a young professional in the marketing field. While I may be at a loss for the exact direction that I want my future to take me, I am now armed with additional important skills and lessons that will help me get to where I need to be.