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When faced with life's challenges, Jessica Cooperman turns adversity into opportunity by embracing a positive outlook. The job search can be a daunting and anxiety-ridden experience for many students, but Jessica has found ways to navigate those unsettling waters. Reflecting on her journey from last November to March, as she applied for internships, she recalls, “It can be really hard not to let it get you down, but I tried to think positively.” This resilient mindset, cultivated through setbacks, fueled her determination and ultimately paved the way to her successful internship and what promises to be a bright future for Jessica.
A Senior Marketing Major with a concentration in Digital Marketing and Analytics, Jessica recently completed a transformative integrated marketing internship with Dow Jones this past summer. What drew her to Dow Jones was not just the prestigious name, but the supportive and empowering atmosphere that welcomed her from day one. During the interview process, Jessica was impressed by how her interviewers transformed the typical Q&A into genuine conversations, treating her with respect and engaging her thoughts and questions.
Once she joined the team, Jessica discovered a camaraderie among her coworkers that made a world of difference. They became her support system, always ready to answer questions and offer guidance during challenging moments. This nurturing environment not only bolstered her confidence but also allowed her to thrive, showcasing the power of positivity and community in achieving one’s dreams.
During her internship at Dow Jones, Jessica's days involved responding to requests for proposals (RFPs) and developing marketing strategies for placements in the Wall Street Journal and Barron’s Group. She conducted background research on companies and their products, as well as analyzed competitors’ custom content to gain market insights. Jessica contributed to creating presentation decks, which ultimately led to a final ad on the Wall Street Journal website. She felt fulfilled knowing her work played a part in such a larger end product.
Jessica was in the office the day Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who had been detained in Russia, was finally freed. She remembers the buzz around the office and the sounds of news coverage in the background. When Evan landed on U.S. soil, she could hear and practically feel the deep sigh of relief and excitement that swept through the newsroom. “People were crying, popping champagne, it was such a monumental moment. It really brought everyone together, and I felt so special to be there that day.”
From an outside perspective, one might think, “Jessica is so lucky!” But it was a little luck, combined with a lot of hard work and dedication, that got her to Dow Jones last summer. Jessica believes that when seeking an internship, it is essential to align the opportunity with personal goals, such as company type, industry, and responsibilities. Initially, Jessica was applying to internships without many of these factors in mind. However, as she got deeper into the process, she realized she valued working for a well-recognized company where her contributions would have a tangible impact.
For students currently pursuing internships or careers, Jessica recommends thorough research and preparing for interviews using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method. Staying positive during the application process can be challenging, but as Jessica states, “There are almost always positive things to take away from any moment.” She encourages other students to maintain their focus and always reach out for guidance and support. She has found hers through being a member of the Women in Business Club and serving as a teaching assistant for Business 3005, where she has not only helped other students through their professional journeys but has also gained more confidence in her own.
Just as the buzz, relief, and shared joy surrounding Evan Gershkovich’s safe return brought people together, Jessica's favorite moment at UConn was when the UConn Men’s Basketball team won back-to-back national championships. She cherishes moments that rally people together and foster appreciation for life. Because despite roadblocks and hard times, “There are almost always positive things to take away from every moment.”
Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your amazing experience from your internship at Dow Jones with Marketing Today!
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