About
After graduating with a double major in public relations and communications, a minor in marketing, and certificate in social media I was hired part time as the marketing and development associate for the Montana Free Press (montanafreepress.org). This was a great starting and jumping off point. I was given a lot of autonomy to experiment and try new things. I also learned about the journalism industry and inner workings of nonprofits.
A few months later, I interviewed for a position at The Wendt Agency, Montana's longest-standing advertising and marketing agency (celebrating their 90th year thewendtagency.com). I accepted when they offered me the social media specialist position and moved to Great Falls. The Wendt Agency is an absolutely incredible place to work. I feel like I won the "first job" lottery (even though I'm not allowed to play the lottery now because they are one of our clients). My office is located in a historic ice house with an open floor plan and no door policy. The agency also has an amazing company culture. It has awesome perks, traditions, and encourages personal and professional growth. We have great clients, engaging projects, special summer hours, Friday social time, huge Halloween parties/costume contests, company retreats, an office mascot, frequent visits from co-workers’ dogs, and that doesn't even begin to scratch the surface. I have a great supervisor and really like all my co-workers. They are fantastic role models and mentors. I really respect and hope to learn a lot from them. I am coming up on my one-year anniversary at Wendt (it went by so quickly)!
As the social media specialist, I am in charge of all things social media. A few tasks I perform on a daily basis include reputation management, monitor social channels, account audits, develop social media strategies/plans, write organic content calendars and paid campaign copy, track analytics, and generate reports. I have and continue to learn about working with a team, operating within an advertising agency, and collaborating with a variety of clients. Since starting this position my responsibilities and confidence have grown.
During the past year I have been working hard to branch out and make new connections and friends. I signed up to volunteer at the animal shelter, joined a gym, taken several sign language classes, attended the Young Professionals meetings, and reached out to local theater groups. I'm also trying to make time to pursue some of my other interests outside of work.
I am at a good place right now in my professional and personal life. If you have any students interested in this type of position, career path, or industry I'd be more than happy to talk to them about my experiences. I also just wanted to say thank you so much for helping me get to where I am today and achieve what I have accomplished. I am still growing, learning, and applying the things you've taught me and I am beyond grateful for all the lessons and skills you've imparted.