Ella Schwarzenbach developed expertise in influencer marketing, event planning, and research as an Events Intern at The A List.
Why did you choose this internship?
I chose to intern for The A List as an Events Intern because of their esteemed list of clientele, which includes brands like Aritzia, Reformation, and Ilia Beauty. This offered me the unique opportunity to work with high-end, mainstream brands and be involved in creating events that align with their brand image. Having the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in influencer marketing and event planning for such renowned clients was super intriguing to me because I would get to learn from leaders in the marketing industry.
What kind of work did you do during your internship experience?
My internship involved a mix of ideating talent for upcoming events, market research, and conceptualizing fashion events. I contributed to sourcing and identifying influencers and celebrities that aligned with brands' target audiences. I also played a key role in conducting market research to update the team with current events and trends, opening up potential for new collaborations and clients. I was also given the opportunity to conceptualize an event for Aritzia’s Après Ski collection, using skills I learned over the semester like talent research, budgeting, event timelines, and vendor relations.
What new skills did you develop in this internship?
I honed skills in communication, market research, and networking, specifically in the fashion and marketing industries. Working on influencer marketing taught me how to analyze metrics like audience demographics and engagement rates to maximize potential outreach. My event planning experience further developed my organizational and problem-solving skills, especially under fast-paced deadlines.
What was the most rewarding part of your internship?
The most rewarding part of my internship was seeing an event I helped plan come to life. Seeing social media posts from influencers I researched and invited, and the positive success of an event reaffirmed the impact of my work. This experience was meaningful because it gave me an opportunity to share and conceptualize my ideas and creativity, and translate them into real life events.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
As a remote intern, one of the biggest challenges I faced was maintaining clear communication and staying connected with my team from across different time zones. While it provided flexibility, working remotely required time management and self-discipline to ensure deadlines were met. I learned the importance of over-communicating and staying organized–whether through regular check-ins with my supervisor or asking lots of questions.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for the future?
This internship solidified my passion for event planning and influencer marketing in the fashion industry. It has further inspired me to pursue a career where I can utilize my creativity and skill set, working for a company that I am passionate about and inspired by. Having this experience under my belt has opened new opportunities and ideas for my future–something I am forever grateful for.
What advice do you have for other students as they search for their internship?
Start early and be proactive when seeking opportunities. There are so many internship opportunities out there, and if you invest time and effort into finding them and applying, you can secure your dream internship. With that being said, one internship may not be what you expected and vice versa, so any experience is valuable experience. Once you start your internship, be curious and take initiative–ask questions, volunteer yourself for extra assignments, and embrace challenges as learning opportunities.