Her Story
About Katie
I grew up in a very small town and wanted to branch out, so my dad recommended I join the Army National Guard. I used the Army National Guard money to pay for school, so I haven't paid anything for school. I wanted to go to art therapy originally, but then I switched over to fitness, and then I switched again to social media marketing. I'm currently at Emporia State University, graduating this year after about four years in school. I have class for a couple hours, and then I go to work at the student rec center where I'm on the marketing team there. I recently got another job because we're entering the summer period, so I'm back to serving at a restaurant. I'm still in the Army National Guard while also in school. I have been the president for close to three years for the Student Veterans Association, which supports military members in transitioning to school life and civilian life. Non-military members are also welcome, anyone who supports the military - it's a big support system. I'm also the vice president of the SLR program, which is the Sport Leadership Recreation program.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Katie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having a supportive community and a support system. The people around me who believe in me and support what I'm doing have been essential to getting where I am today.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't stress the small stuff. Take opportunities, any opportunities that come up, even if you don't think they are important - you will meet a lot of people. Go to conferences. Do what you want to do. It's important to pursue what truly matters to you and not let the little things hold you back.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, I'm struggling at finding an internship, just finding work. There's not a lot of full-time opportunities where I am at. They're either part-time or not paid. The lack of paid, full-time positions in social media marketing is a real challenge for someone just entering the field.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being honest is a big one for me. No matter what, people say being honest hurts sometimes, but in the long run, it's honestly the better option. Honesty is something I value deeply in both my work and personal life, even when it's difficult.
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