A bright ray of sunshine in a sunflower dress
Story by Ashley Plys, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a SOM student marketing assistant.
It’s become such a rare opportunity to have a guest speaker in person, but donning her mask and a sunflower dress, Chelsea Roehl took a break from visiting family to speak to SOM’s Principles of Marketing class. Born and raised in Fairbanks, Chelsea graduated from UAF in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in art, with a concentration in digital arts and a minor in marketing. She currently works for the new streaming service Peacock TV. Chelsea shared her insights on how students can carve their own path to success.
1) Pursue Opportunities
Chelsea's first piece of advice is to take chances with opportunities. Apply for everything, even if you think you won’t be accepted. Chelsea took a chance on an internship, which turned into her being recruited for a position at the company. Internships are not the only avenue to gain experience - it might be a semester abroad, taking a class out of your comfort zone, or volunteering in the community. Regardless of what you are pursuing, you have to put yourself out there and take a chance.
2) Self Advocate
Being your own advocate is a skill that needs to be cultivated to accomplish your goals. Chelsea advocated for herself from the start. In order to do so, she kept track of her projects and new skills she developed. She dedicated herself to the basic skills of being on time, utilizing good communication, and stepping forward when new projects were offered. This laid the groundwork to present a clear record of her accomplishments as she negotiated for a raise after her first year and got it!
3) Networking
Students learn that networking is important while in college and that extends into the professional workplace, as well. As soon as Chelsea started her first job, she reached out to other professional organizations to volunteer. She recommends students get involved to gain extra experience as you never know where this networking will lead. Every relationship you foster today could be an opportunity for you tomorrow.
The most important guidance from Chelsea’s visit is to create your own journey, no matter how it differs from others. Chelsea was able to use the resources UAF had available to create her path to a flourishing career and urges every student to do the same.
Note: Story title provided by UAF business student Calvin Scott.
