Courtland Bartosik, a second-semester student at UNC Chapel Hill and a second-term intern at Sweeney, is representative of the ferociousness and confidence of Gen Z. Curious to know more about her and what makes her tick, we took a moment to dig a little deeper.
When this busy bee is not attending class as a full-time student, watching scary movies, visiting local coffee shops, or shopping for new kicks, she is hard at work – supporting agency as well as client marketing. In a rare moment of slowdown, we talked to Courtland about marketing and more, to discover what motivates her as well as who inspires her!
What motivated you to pursue a career in marketing?
I feel that marketing, though often overlooked, is truly the backbone of success for many businesses and organizations. But the main thing that moved me to pursue a career in marketing was the idea that there is always something new to learn. Also, I love storytelling, so the combination of telling stories and learning something new really captivates my interest in the field.
Who are your personal and professional role models?
My personal role model is my dad, Chris. My dad was able to take a degree in Art and turn it into a career that evolved into incredible leadership roles. As I’ve gotten older, he’s shown me the importance of hard work, determination, and interpersonal connections as he inspires everyone he works with. He’s an amazing leader in his professional life and has taught me how to be a leader in my life, all while doing it with purpose and love. In a more professional sense, Vera Wang is my role model. She showed the world that you can take a small job and make it into a huge and successful career, even when the odds are against you. Oh, and I love her wedding dresses!
What are you most looking forward to as you continue to intern with Sweeney?
After my first meeting with the CEO, Jim, it became clear that learning, teaching, and professional development are the backbones of the agency. Learning is important to me, as a student and budding professional I have so much to learn, especially when it comes to marketing, and Sweeney has been the perfect place to absorb knowledge and apply what I am learning in school.
If you were a brand, what would be your motto?
Be the reason someone smiles today.
On a personal note, what brings you joy?
Of all things in my life, reading is the main outlet that brings me joy. I’m obsessed with the author Colleen Hoover and the way books can momentarily take you away from reality and immerse you into a story without the need for technology that we’re surrounded by every day.
