This week marks week 5 of our Launchpad internship for HLK. We are currently working on our project for Bayer Turf and Ornamental. We have finalized our presentation on the grounds of our practice pitch that we presented on Thursday. Things went smoothly, and we received a lot of well rounded feedback we cannot wait to work with.

Our stance going into this practice pitch versus the first one was on the basis of having less the more on our deliverables. Our practice pitch for ACS contained a lot of finalized products and information that we did not have to change too much going into the final pitch the following week. We wanted to challenge ourselves and create a different experience by presenting a different form of our deliverables. This time around, we prepared lots of different ideas so we could get feedback for the most well-liked and efficient campaign.

Throughout the past 5 week, we have faced many challenges, hurdled them, and gained so much knowledge on our journey. T-1 week till we reach our destination, and we are all very thankful for our time at HLK and can show you through our reflections.

What is one aspect of yourself that you have grown over these past 5 weeks?

“I have learned and grown so much through this program. One of the biggest things I learned is that you might be good at something you never even thought about before. I didn't even know what brand planning was before coming into this internship, but now I feel like I could take what I learned and apply it to other jobs or opportunities. I have also learned that there are so many more jobs and pieces to advertising than I had originally thought, and everyone's position matters and contributes a piece to the puzzle. I feel more confident going out into the real world after this internship!”

- Ashley Byer

“One aspect of myself that I’ve grown over the past 6 weeks are the group-working skills needed in a professional setting. I’ve learned a lot about myself since working very closely with the other interns, and I’ve realized that it’s very different from a school project. With these new skills and knowledge, I feel more confident in my ability to communicate with others even in tough or uncomfortable situations. My experiences as a Launchpad intern will help carry me in any new opportunity that my future may hold.”

- Erin Wunderlich

“Over the past 5 weeks, I feel like my knowledge in PR and creative agencies has grown tremendously, and I feel more confident in my brainstorms, conversations, and networking abilities. I have reached out to many people for their insights and perspective on both my work and strategic communications in general, and by doing so, I have a newfound appreciation for and confidence in my ability to ask for help and implement others’ advice to make the best work possible.”

- Mallory Kimes

“During the length of the internship I have grown immensely. The biggest aspect of my skill set that has grown the most is my formatting and presenting of slide decks and pitches. Arranging my slides in an understandable and intriguing manner is a skill that I have honed during the internship and will continue to grow as I further my career.”

- Collin Clark

Over the past few weeks at HLK, I feel like I have really rounded out the fact that this is the industry I 100% want to work in. I love the fast paced working style and I have really enjoyed getting to learn every aspect of the industry and how well they all mesh together to create campaigns. It is really cool to be a part of it!

- Margaret Fitzgerald

I really noticed myself coming out of my shell much quicker than normal through this internship. The group of interns and others at HLK made this so easy for me since everyone I interacted with was so amazing and welcoming.”

- Haley Hoffman

“By far and away, my communication skills have grown the most in this internship. With the way we all have to work together in this job, it’s pushed me to be a better communicator. Both keeping my group members updated on what I’m doing, what I need help with, and expressing my honest thoughts and opinions.”

- Hunter Bickel