My Accomplishments
I started my own web design business at 16 years old. And I'm proud that since then, I have continuously grown, developed my skills, and given back to the business community at Ryerson with the things I've learned over the years.
Why Marketing?
I had originally wanted to pursue a career in marketing because I knew creativity was one of my strongest suits. But I also wanted to be people-facing. I thought marketing perfectly allows for a creative business career.
The Dream Job
Product Designer. It ties in all the things I couldn't decide between being when I'm older. Whereas I originally considered studying psychology, wanted (and successfully did) become a graphic designer, and knew I had business acumen, Product Design ties it all together.
Wherever I do it, I want to ensure that I can still feel self-fulfilled, in an environment where I feel I am leading myself, instead of being managed, and that is constantly changing, allowing for personal growth.
My Impact
I want to come up with unique creative solutions to every problem. And I want to do it in a way that puts consumers first. This means breaking the stigma of that marketing is shady. It means ensuring that there will be no more "false" advertising.
The Challenge Getting Into The Industry
The system of applying for an internship is broken. Cliché, but it really is about "who you know" less "what you know." When you dedicate so much of your time to customizing a cover letter, resume, even portfolio, to each application's needs, its discouraging when you never hear anything back.
It truly is a humbling process.
"I love that marketing doesn't force me to pick a lane. I get to be the analytical one who figures out the strategy, but I also get to be the creative one who brings it to life. It's that constant back-and-forth between the two that makes the work actually feel like me." – Sakina, CMA Intern
One piece of advice that stuck with me was to stop waiting until I felt 'fully ready' before taking opportunities. A lot of growth comes from putting yourself in environments that challenge you, even if you're still learning. I've learned that experience builds confidence.
While scouring social media sites, job postings and your favourite companies searching for opportunities to get your foot in the door, you kept seeing one constant – required experience. That's something you just don't have. You're trying but you can't seem to get your foot in the door. Either you get no response or the response is that they've decided not to move forward with your application. That sucks.
