Courtesy of Caroline Z.
Name: Caroline Z.
Position: Social Media Intern
School: Emory University Goizueta School of Business
Dream destination: Sydney, Australia
Drink or treat of choice: Affogato — a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with a double shot of espresso. It unites my love of coffee and ice cream.
When Caroline is not studying for her BBA in marketing and history, she’s editing videos. All the time. “I like to keep my camera app open, looking to capture memories for my self-described « iMovie Capsule,” she says. “These videos are my favorite way to reminisce and to see the progression of my hobbies, relationships, (and video editing skills!) as I have grown up.”
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So, when she joined Marriott’s HQ Fellowship/Internship Program this summer as a marketing intern helping her team produce, film and edit videos for Marriott’s different brands, it couldn’t have been more aligned with her passion and goals.
Courtesy of Caroline Z.
For this Bethesda native, Marriott’s culture has been a constant presence in her life since she was a little girl (Marriott is headquartered in the Washington, DC suburb), and that’s why, even though she doesn’t go to school for hospitality, she knew it made sense for her to join the company.
“Marriott’s commitment to leaving a positive impact on local communities aligns with my values, and I love the idea of using marketing as a tool to strengthen communities and building meaningful relationships on a global scale.”
Learn more about Caroline’s Marriott social media internship below.
What are some exciting projects you’ve had the chance to work on during your internship?
I had the opportunity to contribute to a film for one of Marriott Bonvoy’s main partners throughout the entire production process: script writing, research, casting, wardrobe, blocking, and filming. The highlight of this experience was traveling with my creative and supportive manager, Lucy, to San Diego for the production. I also filmed and produced a content series with Culinary Developer Chef Neil O’Connor from the Marriott Test Kitchen. I conceptualized a script that had to align with the Marriott Bonvoy brand voice. I then filmed a Q&A, a tutorial on the Moxy Lowball, highlighting three healthy, seasonal dishes. I also lead a social media promotion of the road trips feature in the Marriott Bonvoy App. I wrote a brief for our creative team who designed beautiful graphics and then posted a five-frame Instagram story and a self-made TikTok on Marriott Bonvoy socials that explained the feature.
Courtesy of Caroline Z.
What was it like traveling as a Marriott intern, how was the experience overall?
I had an amazing experience traveling with my manager Lucy to San Diego. For three days we scouted locations, wrapped up casting, and discussed props, blocking, and camera angles. I styled the wardrobe for the female actresses in the film, creating look-books that aligned with each character’s age and personality. The day of the production, I recorded behind-the-scenes content. I captured candid moments of the Marriott associates on set, interviewed members of the cast and production crew, and edited the footage for social media. Coming soon to a for you page near you! After filming, I attended the Manchester United vs. Wrexham football friendly, where I also explored the Marriott Bonvoy « Seat of Dreams » area. It was so exciting to walk onto the field and meet some players!
How has the program impacted your own career aspirations?
My internship at Marriott reaffirms how much I value working as part of a collaborative and supportive team. I am grateful to have colleagues who help me hone my ideas, who value my contributions, and who trust me to take initiative on passion projects.
Courtesy of Caroline Z.
What’s next for you after this experience?
I’m returning to Emory University this fall for my junior year of college and am looking forward to studying and traveling abroad. As I explore career options, I hope to combine my studies in history and business to engage in purpose-driven marketing.
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