Learn about one of two Marketing interns, Vanessa!
Two interns joined our Marketing team this summer: Vanessa Cortes and Antonio Perez. We’ve been getting to know more about their interests and talents but were able to sit down and learn more about where they’re from, what they like to do in their free time, and what their dream jobs look like.
Today we’ll hear from Vanessa.
Vanessa is a student at Mount Mercy University, pursuing a major in marketing and minors in graphic design and Spanish. She loves being creative, learning, and understanding what makes an organization stand out and when she isn’t running (can you say track star?!), working, or doing something for school, she loves to binge-watch shows—currently, The Handmaid’s Tale.
A quote Vanessa lives by is one from Walt Disney: “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
Learn more about Vanessa through her answers below.
Tell us about where you’re from, where you grew up, etc.
I am from sunny Bakersfield, California, and before you ask, no, it [unfortunately] is not by a beach. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outside playing with my sister and our dog and I lived there my whole life until I moved to Iowa for school in 2016.
What would you say your dream job is?
I don’t specifically have a [dream job], but I would love to work at a place I look forward to going to every day.
Who inspires you and why?
Both of my parents inspire me! My dad just became a U.S. citizen a few years ago. With the barriers he faced, he didn’t let anything get in his way and has done everything in his power to provide the best for his children. And my mom is from Chicago but grew up in Puerto Rico. Although she didn’t finish college and has had some health challenges, she recently was given a promotion that typically would require a college degree! They have both taught me that with hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude, you can achieve your goals.
Why did you want to work with United Way?
I like that United Way focuses on helping the community because that’s how I was raised. Additionally, I wanted to get the full-on marketing experience at a great organization. I believe it will help me have a better idea of what I want to do in my future career.
What has been your favorite part of your internship so far?
I like the relationships I am building with everyone here. The team is very encouraging and helpful, and I look forward to the rest of the summer!