My STEP signature project was an internship with CVS Health. I was a marketing intern working in influencer marketing under the Brand Strategy team. I worked 40 hours remotely for 10 weeks this summer.

This internship exposed me to the many different facets of marketing and allowed me to grow as a professional. While working for CVS Health, I was challenged by my workload and had to get out of my comfort zone frequently. From working with agencies to presenting my projects, I was able to grow in intimidating situations. I learned that I could step up to challenges and that presenting to my superiors is something that I can handle.

During my internship, I learned about the multiple facets of marketing and specifically more about brand strategy. I was able to see first-hand how companies shape their perceptions and feelings towards their brands. This experience helped me shape my goals for my future and narrow down my interests in marketing. I definitely could see myself working in brand strategy in the future.

One of the most impactful events I experienced over the summer was the CVS Corporate Internship Summit. Around 400 interns flew out to Hartford, CT where we were all able to meet and spend two days in the offices. This trip allowed me to see a large work environment firsthand, as well as interact with students from all over the country. It broadened my perspective and gave me the chance to interact with others, even in an overwhelming environment. This was another example of a situation outside of my comfort zone but allowed me to grow and improve as a professional.

One relationship that shaped me throughout the summer was with one of my managers. She was the head of the Influencer Marketing team and provided me with guidance throughout the summer. The most notable thing that I took away from our relationship was her eagerness to learn, research, and share her opinions. Every time I shared my work with her, she would give me more insight and ask great questions. She inspired me to speak up more on topics I’m interested in and to ask engaging questions during other’s presentations.

One of the most impactful interactions I had throughout the summer was with other interns. We worked on a group capstone project together, which challenged us to think outside the box and work as a team. It was a great experience to work together in the corporate world and learn the best ways to communicate. Each other their different backgrounds and ideas helped us shape a successful project together and I learned skills for working with others.

The experiences and transformation I gained from this project are extremely significant in shaping me as a professional and guiding my future decisions. It was valuable work experience and I learned so much about the corporate world. It helped me narrow down my preferred career path in marketing as well. Being exposed to so many people and business functions challenged me as well as helped me develop. As a professional, I feel much more equipped to graduate and enter the corporate world.

Personally, this project transformed me as well. I made great friends with other interns and learned about people from different backgrounds. I was put outside of my comfort zone many times and it helped me find growth in the uncomfortable. I feel so much more confident in myself knowing that I can handle intimidating situations.