Like a puppy eager to get inside the house, I cannot wait to be let into the office. I ring Fixation’s doorbell and walk to my desk which is located at the “office bridge” connecting the art department and the account team. The talented graphic designers quietly yet meticulously focus on their work and often listen to soothing jazz music. Conversely, the rest of the office zealously discusses projects aloud. When I need to connect, I visit Sharyn, who is the life of the office, or I will spark a conversation with anyone. After all, talking is what led me to my most exciting project. I was chatting with Mike, the creative director, and he asked if I wanted to help him on the HIV/AIDS awareness campaign pitch. Needless to say, I gladly accepted the challenge since I was and am still so excited to contribute to a great cause. I brainstormed social media and online marketing ideas and ended up creating a wireframe idea that features interactive promotions to encourage HIV/AIDS testing. The wireframe is centered on a user’s ability to upload videos and win prizes. Moreover, I thought it would be effective if people could print out flyers about testing to place in public areas. For those who take a picture with the flyer in public and tweet the picture, they would receive SWAG. A couple weeks later, Mike told me that the potential client liked my ideas! To think that they might be used to positively affect the world is an indescribable feeling.

Helping with the HIV/AIDS campaign pitch has been the highlight of my internship but I have really enjoyed learning all the different aspects of marketing. My job entails a lot of research on unfamiliar topics, but I love finding the answers and thinking of ways to apply my knowledge in the office. Unfortunately, my time with Fixation is dwindling as the end of summer approaches. I will take my amazing experience to New York University where the unknown awaits me. I feel privileged to have been a part of such a friendly and talented company. After all, how many people receive an awesome marketing internship from meeting someone on the beach? My cousin introduced me to Sharyn there this summer. So the next time you decide to doze off at the beach, I dare you to expand your network. You might be surprised—and rewarded!