From Marketing Intern to Expert

Nine years ago, my marketing journey began unexpectedly, unfolding in a way that would shape my professional life forever. I was a sophomore at Duquesne University, deeply immersed in studying Business Management and Entrepreneurship. My ambitions leaned heavily toward project management, and the idea of a career in marketing wasn’t even on my radar. But life has a way of presenting opportunities in unexpected ways. It all started with a “business development internship” at a small Pittsburgh startup called Active Cities (activecities.com). What initially seemed like a straightforward role in data entry would eventually ignite a passion for digital marketing that I never anticipated.

In the beginning, my internship responsibilities were simple and routine — mining and cleaning data and supporting social media efforts. Yet, the startup environment was electric, buzzing with potential, and filled with the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that sparked my curiosity. I quickly found myself observing the inefficiencies in how tasks were handled and wondering how things could be improved. At the same time, I was dabbling in new skills, learning about social media management and web marketing. It wasn’t long before I saw an opportunity to make a difference.

One afternoon, after weeks of observing and reflecting, I decided to act. I poured hours into drafting a detailed memo addressed to the company’s owners. This wasn’t just any memo; it was a document that outlined operational inefficiencies and suggested solutions based on a concept I had just discovered through online research — Search Engine Optimization (SEO). At the time, I had only a surface-level understanding of SEO. I had read a few articles and watched some videos, but the potential of this strategy intrigued me deeply. It seemed like a powerful tool to amplify the company’s digital footprint and drive measurable growth. Submitting the memo felt like a leap of faith. I didn’t know how it would be received, but something inside me insisted that it was worth the risk. Little did I know, this decision would become a turning point in my career.

The First Leap: Learning by Doing

My early days at Active Cities revolved around repetitive tasks like data entry and occasional assistance with social media campaigns. While these duties seemed mundane, they served as a crash course in the foundational aspects of digital marketing. I gained an appreciation for the importance of precision and consistency in managing data, as well as the creative aspects of crafting social media content that resonated with audiences. Yet, as I grew more comfortable with my responsibilities, I found myself craving more. I wanted to contribute beyond my job description, to find ways to improve processes and make a tangible difference.

The memo I submitted turned out to be far more impactful than I anticipated. It caught the attention of the two owners, who not only appreciated my initiative but also encouraged me to take the lead in implementing my suggestions. The owners extended my internship for another semester, giving me the autonomy to spearhead SEO efforts and optimize our online presence. It was a challenge I eagerly embraced, even though I was venturing into uncharted territory.

Over the next few months, I dove headfirst into learning everything I could about SEO. I read blogs, watched tutorials, listened to podcasts, and experimented with strategies. As I implemented keyword optimizations, improved site structure, on-page SEO, and crafted targeted content, the results began to speak for themselves. In just a few months, website traffic quadrupled, skyrocketing from a modest baseline to over 50,000 monthly pageviews. Social media engagement followed suit, with significant growth in both followers and interactions. Beyond the numbers, the experience solidified my passion for marketing. I discovered the thrill of crafting strategies, executing them, and watching them yield real, measurable results.

This chapter of my career taught me invaluable lessons. It showed me the power of curiosity, initiative, and continuous learning. It also taught me that success often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone and daring to take risks. Looking back, I realize how pivotal those early days were — not just for my professional development but also for shaping the mindset that would guide me through the next nine years of growth in the marketing field.

The Role of Ownership and Mentorship

By January 2017 (now a Senior at Duquesne), my contributions earned me an equity stake in Active Cities. Becoming a co-owner was a game-changer, transforming my professional trajectory and giving me a sense of purpose and responsibility that extended beyond my previous roles. Active Cities was more than just a startup; it was a comprehensive resource for all things active in Pittsburgh and cities around the U.S. At its core was a Pittsburgh database of over 4,000 businesses, parks, leagues, and organizations — covering 53 activities (basketball, soccer, bocce, field hockey, horseback, etc.) and 120 subcategories (fields, teams, shops, leagues, courts, etc.). Whether you were searching for a bocce court, an intramural league, or the nearest municipal playground, Active Cities aimed to make discovering and engaging in an active lifestyle simple and accessible.

As the company grew, so did my role. In addition to overseeing marketing and operations, I became deeply involved in expanding our content offerings. We didn’t just maintain directories; we published articles about staying active, the benefits of exercise, and tips for leading a healthier lifestyle. By 2019, Active Cities had expanded to 18 cities across the U.S., boasting a database of over 80,000 businesses, leagues, and teams, and generating between 8–12 million search engine impressions annually.

As the only non-founding co-owner, I brought a unique perspective to the leadership team. My contributions were instrumental in growing our monthly user base to 30,000–50,000 visitors, with a significant portion of that traffic coming from Pittsburgh. Much of this success stemmed from the SEO initiatives and operational efficiency cleanup I led, which resulted in an average of 50,000 organic pageviews per month and over 250 first-page Google rankings. One particularly rewarding project involved a data entry and cleansing effort that processed 25,000+ data points, streamlining our directories and improving user experience.

Beyond operational achievements, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role was mentoring interns. Active Cities operated a robust internship program, welcoming teams of 8–15 students for 14-week rotations. Over the years, I had the privilege of managing more than 125 college interns from local universities like the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, Carnegie Mellon University, Point Park University, and Chatham University. Guiding these students through real-world marketing projects was both a challenge and an opportunity. I taught them everything from SEO strategies to content creation, fostering an environment of collaboration and professional growth.

This mentorship extended beyond technical skills. I emphasized the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and creative problem-solving. Seeing interns flourish — whether they were launching successful campaigns or mastering new tools — was incredibly rewarding. Many of these interns have gone on to build impressive careers, and knowing I played a part in their journey remains one of my proudest achievements.

The culture at Active Cities was rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to promoting active lifestyles. As co-owner, I worked closely with local businesses to get their information into our directories and in front of users who valued an active lifestyle. These partnerships not only enhanced our platform but also strengthened community ties, reinforcing the idea that our success was intertwined with the well-being of the communities we served.

Ultimately, my time at Active Cities was a masterclass in leadership, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of marketing. The lessons I learned — from scaling a startup to mentoring future professionals — continue to shape my approach to challenges and opportunities today.

A New Chapter: Building Essey Marketing

In April 2021, I founded Essey Marketing, a venture born from the convergence of professional ambition, personal discovery, and a desire to forge a meaningful path. Leaving my corporate sales role at a Fortune 500 company was a bold move, but one that felt increasingly necessary. I had taken that role after graduating from Duquesne University, eager to gain valuable sales experience while maintaining my ongoing involvement with Active Cities. However, the pandemic brought a period of reflection and clarity. I realized I was yearning for something more — something that not only challenged me professionally but also aligned with my passions for marketing, entrepreneurship, and making a tangible impact on the lives of businesses and individuals.

Essey Marketing emerged from this vision, specializing in Search Engine Optimization while offering a comprehensive suite of digital marketing services, including social media marketing, website design and development, digital marketing strategy development, paid media, and user experience audits. What truly sets us apart, however, is our unwavering commitment to empowering small businesses, students, and entrepreneurs. These are the communities I feel deeply connected to because I understand their unique challenges and aspirations. Supporting them isn’t just a business strategy — it’s a personal mission.

The inspiration to start Essey Marketing came right before a transformative 30-day road trip across 20 states and over a dozen national parks. This wasn’t just a getaway; it was a journey of self-discovery and a test of my entrepreneurial resolve. I worked from unconventional “offices” — the bed of my truck, remote campsites, roadside diners, and any place I could find a stable Internet connection. Each day presented new challenges, but also profound moments of clarity.

One night in the heart of Badlands National Park, I vividly recall sitting in my tent under a vast expanse of stars, drafting website copy for a Pittsburgh client while coyotes howled in the distance. Another memorable moment was conducting a comprehensive SEO audit from Kaibab National Forest, using a single bar of cell service while wild horses roamed freely against the majestic backdrop of the Grand Canyon. These experiences reminded me that passion and determination could transcend any obstacle. They reinforced my belief that marketing, at its essence, is about creativity, adaptability, and connection — whether you’re in a corporate boardroom or a makeshift office in the wilderness.

This ethos shaped the foundation of Essey Marketing. It’s a company built on flexibility, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. Our mission extends far beyond driving revenue for clients. We see marketing as a transformative tool that can empower communities, support dreams, and create lasting change. To honor this belief, we allocate 8% of our revenue to nonprofit organizations, ensuring that our success contributes to causes that matter.

Since our inception, Essey Marketing has had the privilege of working with over 60 clients across the United States, ranging from budding startups to established businesses. Each partnership represents a shared journey of growth, learning, and achievement. Among the most fulfilling aspects of this work is collaborating directly with small business owners and mentoring aspiring professionals. Whether it’s guiding an entrepreneur through the launch of their dream venture or providing hands-on experience to interns eager to carve out their own paths, I find immense joy in these connections. For me, it’s about more than delivering results — it’s about fostering confidence, inspiring innovation, and helping others realize their potential.

Essey Marketing is, in many ways, a reflection of my own journey — a testament to the lessons I’ve learned and the values I hold dear. It’s a business rooted in the belief that marketing is more than a profession; it’s a powerful force for good. As we continue to grow, I’m driven by a vision to not only elevate brands but also uplift people and communities, proving that meaningful work and purposeful impact can go hand in hand.

Growing with Nationwide

In 2021, I joined Nationwide as a contractor, taking on an important role in modernizing websites and applying cutting-edge digital marketing strategies for the Financial Services division–Nationwide Financial.The opportunity to contribute to a Fortune 100 company was both exciting and challenging, blending strategic planning with hands-on execution. My initial responsibilities included improving user experience, enhancing web performance, and ensuring our digital presence aligned with the company’s broader business objectives.

After demonstrating measurable success in my initiatives, I was offered a permanent position as a Digital Marketing Consultant. This role expanded my responsibilities significantly, allowing me to lead some of Nationwide’s largest and most complex web projects. From developing integrated marketing strategies to implementing advanced analytics tools, my work has been instrumental in driving both engagement and conversion.

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my experience at Nationwide. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside IT teams, legal experts, external vendors, and marketing management to ensure that every project is delivered seamlessly. This cross-functional collaboration has not only enriched my understanding of different disciplines but also strengthened my ability to navigate complex organizational structures.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been acting as a thought leader in web marketing. Whether advising on content strategy, optimizing user engagement tactics, or presenting data-driven insights to senior leadership, I’ve been able to contribute meaningfully to Nationwide’s digital evolution. Ultimately, my time at Nationwide has been marked by growth, collaboration, and impact. It’s been an opportunity to apply the skills I’ve honed over the years in a corporate setting, proving that adaptability and curiosity can drive success in any environment.

Thoughts On My Marketing Journey

Reflecting on this nine-year journey from an ambitious sophomore to a seasoned marketing professional, I see a path shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. What started as a simple internship with data entry tasks blossomed into a dynamic career that taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, creativity, and leadership. The defining moments of this journey — taking a leap with an SEO memo, co-owning a startup, mentoring aspiring professionals, and eventually founding my own marketing agency — are reminders that growth often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone and seizing opportunities others might overlook.

The power of mentorship has been a constant theme throughout my career. From learning under the guidance of others to mentoring over 125 interns and countless mentees, I’ve come to appreciate the cyclical nature of knowledge and inspiration. Helping others grow isn’t just fulfilling; it strengthens the foundation of your own growth. This spirit of collaboration extends to the clients I’ve worked with at Active Cities and Essey Marketing. Partnering with small businesses, empowering them through tailored strategies, and seeing their success ripple into their communities have been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.

Building Essey Marketing wasn’t just about starting a company — it was about crafting a vision for what work could truly mean. Essey Marketing isn’t just a business; it’s a reflection of my belief that marketing is a force for empowerment and connection. It’s a platform to support small businesses, mentor young professionals, and contribute to causes that matter through nonprofit support. These guiding principles ensure that every project is infused with purpose and every success benefits more than just the bottom line.

Moreover, the unconventional path of this journey — writing marketing strategies from national parks, juggling projects from the back of a truck, and finding inspiration in the stillness of nature — has taught me that creativity thrives when boundaries are stretched. These experiences taught me resilience and ingenuity, proving that solutions can come from the most unexpected places. Whether I was crafting campaigns under the stars of National Parks or conducting SEO audits with minimal resources, these moments reminded me that the “where” matters far less than the “why.”

As I look ahead, the lessons of the past continue to shape my vision for the future. Marketing, for me, is more than a profession — it’s an opportunity to connect with others, create a meaningful impact, and make a difference. The journey is far from over, and as Essey Marketing grows, my goal remains steadfast: to elevate brands, inspire individuals, and empower communities. Because at the heart of it all, success isn’t measured solely by metrics or milestones — it’s about the lives you touch and the legacy you leave behind.

Lessons Learned Along My Career

1. Become Indispensable: To secure your position and advance in your career, make yourself so valuable that losing you isn’t an option for your employer. This involves exceeding expectations, continuously learning, and adapting to new trends. The skills that keep you relevant today may not suffice in the future, so commit to lifelong learning. I dedicate at least an hour daily to upskilling — whether through podcasts, online courses, or reading. A mere 15 minutes a day adds up to over 91+ hours annually, significantly enhancing your expertise over time. Stay ahead of industry trends and focus on developing unique skills that will make you indispensable. Employers highly value individuals who proactively expand their knowledge and capabilities, as this adaptability contributes to organizational success.
2. Luck Favors the Prepared: Opportunities often arise from being in the right place at the right time — but preparation is key. Attend networking events, stay connected with industry professionals, and always be ready to showcase your skills. Early in my career, I attended multiple networking events weekly, building relationships that opened doors I never expected. Don’t wait for perfect confidence to seize opportunities — take them and figure it out as you go. Success often comes from who you know as much as what you know. Building a robust professional network not only exposes you to potential opportunities but also provides a platform for exchanging ideas and gaining insights from others’ experiences. Engaging with a diverse group of professionals can offer new perspectives and inspire innovative approaches in your own work.
3. Solve Problems: Your value in any organization is directly tied to the problems you solve. The bigger and more complex the problem, the more indispensable you become. Don’t just stick to your job description — identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and take initiative. Early in my career, drafting a memo to address inefficiencies at my internship led to a transformative opportunity. Employers and clients value individuals who think critically, act decisively, and consistently add value beyond their roles. Developing strong problem-solving skills not only enhances your performance but also positions you as a proactive leader capable of driving positive change within the organization. This proactive approach can lead to increased responsibilities and recognition, further advancing your career.
4. Learn to Negotiate: Advocating for yourself is non-negotiable. Research industry salary ranges, practice negotiation techniques, and confidently ask for what you’re worth. Charisma plays a crucial role in negotiation. In college, I regularly watched videos on building charisma to enhance my presence in meetings and discussions. Negotiation isn’t just about salary; it’s about positioning yourself as a leader and decision-maker. Effective negotiation skills enable you to articulate your value, set clear expectations, and establish mutually beneficial agreements. By mastering the art of negotiation, you can secure opportunities that align with your career aspirations and personal needs.
5. Sacrifice is Real: Achieving your career goals often requires a temporary imbalance in your work-life ratio. Early in my career, I often worked 60–70 hour weeks across multiple jobs, occasionally hitting 80–90 hours. It was exhausting; I missed social events, worked late nights, and dealt with uninspiring jobs. However, these sacrifices allowed me to build financial independence, grow my skill set, and create a foundation for long-term success. It’s important, however, to identify your non-negotiables — such as family time or personal travel — and protect them amidst the hustle. Once you’re comfortable financially, reassess your work-life ratio to ensure it aligns with your personal well-being and long-term goals. Today, I work 40–60 hours a week on my terms — an outcome that wouldn’t have been possible without those early sacrifices.
6. Consider the Trade-offs: Pursuing high earnings often involves sacrifices like reduced free time or creative freedom. Be honest with yourself about what matters most. If financial security is your goal, focus on roles or industries that offer growth potential and align with your long-term vision. Short-term sacrifices, such as accepting lower pay for high-growth opportunities, can lead to significant rewards over time. It’s essential to evaluate the long-term benefits of each opportunity against the immediate costs. Understanding your priorities will help you make informed decisions that balance career advancement with personal fulfillment. Regularly reassessing your goals and the associated trade-offs ensures that your career path remains aligned with your evolving personal and professional aspirations.
7. Short-Term Sacrifices Pay Off: Building a portfolio, reputation, or business often requires undervaluing yourself initially. Early in my freelancing career, I chose lower-paying gigs to establish credibility and gain referrals. This strategy allowed me to build momentum, eventually commanding higher rates and more prestigious projects. Success isn’t instant — it’s the result of consistent effort, patience, and strategic choices. By accepting short-term sacrifices, you invest in your long-term potential, creating a solid foundation for future success. This approach demonstrates your commitment to growth and your willingness to invest in your own development, qualities that are highly regarded in any professional setting.
8. Calculated Hard Work Wins: Success isn’t just about working hard — it’s about working smart. Combine relentless effort with clear goals, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on solving problems that matter. Hard work, when directed strategically, will always yield results. Keep your goals front and center, embrace the grind when it’s necessary, and trust the process. Strategic hard work involves setting clear objectives, prioritizing tasks that align with your goals, and being open to feedback and change. By focusing your efforts on high-impact activities and maintaining flexibility in your approach, you enhance your efficiency and effectiveness, leading to sustained success over time.