Ava Stephenson
Hi, I am Ava Stephenson. I just recently graduated from The Ohio State University, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Fashion and Retail Studies. Originally from Boca Raton, Florida, I’m passionate about blending marketing strategies with my love for fashion and retail. My journey so far has taken me through three internships at small businesses, where I've strengthened my marketing skills. I’m excited about the future and eager to explore new opportunities that allow me to apply my skills while learning and growing. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect and discuss how I can contribute to your team!
My Graduation Goals:
I recently graduated in May 2026 with a degree in Business and Marketing and minor in Fashion/Retail Studies. My goal is to transition into a full-time role where I can apply my academic knowledge and internship experience to make an immediate and lasting impact. I recently moved to Austin, Texas and I am seeking opportunities with growth-minded companies that values innovation, collaboration, and professional development.
My ideal position would allow me to contribute to a dynamic marketing and sales team while continuing to sharpen both my individual and teamwork skills. I thrive in environments that encourage creativity, strategic thinking, and direct collaboration with colleagues, so I prefer roles that emphasize in-office engagement.
Most importantly, I am looking for a company that invests in the growth of its employees. I aspire to build a long-term career with an organization that provides opportunities to learn, take on responsibility, and grow into leadership roles over time.
My Journey So Far:
Internship 1
Minor Chores - Marketing Intern - Summer 2023
Minor Chores is a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing the gig economy for young entrepreneurs. I worked closely with the CEO of Minor Chores as he started up the app. I helped with marketing initiatives by testing the app before its launch and helping to create social media posts to build a target audience.
Internship 2
Entrepreneur's Edge - Marketing Intern - Summer 2024
Entrepreneur's Edge gives small business owners access to cutting-edge marketing strategies and tools to help them differentiate their businesses. I worked with the Co-Founders with marketing project for themselves and for clients. I created social media posts for three of their podcasts, along with collecting data and information for their clients.
Internship 3
Charter Tactical - Marketing and Sales Consultant - Summer 2025
Charter Tactical is a direct-to-consumer and wholesale belt manufacturer. I worked directly with the CEO to drive brand awareness, create new wholesale relationships and generate overall sales volume. During my internship, I established new relationships with regional retail stores using various sales channels, such as email and cold phone calls. My effort led to new wholesale contracts that helped deliver above-target sales which were enthusiastically applauded by the CEO.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tell me about a time you took the lead on a project and how you motivated your team to deliver results.
In my Fashion Branding class, I assumed a leadership role for a significant group project with a tight three-week deadline. I initiated the process by dividing the workload: each team member was assigned three chapters to read and analyze, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the material. To maintain momentum, I scheduled regular check-ins to discuss progress and address any challenges. By fostering open communication and setting clear expectations, we not only met our deadline but also received high praise for our collaborative effort. This experience honed my leadership and organizational skills, reinforcing the importance of structured teamwork.
Tell me about a time you had to analyze information to make a decision. What did you ultimately decide and what was the result?
During my internship at Entrepreneur's Edge, I was tasked with evaluating a list of 300 potential companies for acquisition. I conducted thorough research using platforms like ZoomInfo and LinkedIn, compiling data into an Excel spreadsheet for systematic analysis. By applying the client's specific criteria—such as market position, financial health, and cultural fit—I narrowed the list to the top 20 most viable options. This meticulous approach ensured that the client could focus their efforts on the most promising prospects, streamlining their decision-making process.
Tell me about a time you had to use your communication skills to persuade someone to do something.
During my summer 2024 internship, I was tasked with convincing the CEO of my previous internship to appear on a podcast hosted by my current CEO. I crafted a personalized email highlighting the mutual benefits: an opportunity to share his entrepreneurial journey, increased exposure for his company, and the chance to engage with a broader audience. By emphasizing these advantages and tailoring my message to his interests, he agreed to participate. The collaboration was well-received, showcasing my ability to effectively persuade and facilitate professional connections.
Tell me about a time you made a mistake or failed. How did you respond and how did you grow from that experience?
In a previous internship, a miscommunication led me to misunderstand a project's requirements, resulting in a missed client deadline. Recognizing the error, I promptly informed my supervisor, took full responsibility, and worked diligently to rectify the situation. I completed the corrected work by the following day, aligning it with the client's expectations. This experience underscored the importance of clear communication and proactive clarification, prompting me to adopt more effective strategies for managing tasks and deadlines in the future.
How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?
In high-pressure situations, I maintain composure by systematically evaluating the problem at hand. I break down tasks into manageable steps, prioritize them based on urgency and impact, and set clear, achievable goals. Maintaining a positive outlook and open communication with team members ensures alignment and collective problem-solving, enabling us to navigate challenges effectively.
Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
I value both independent and team-oriented work. Independently, I appreciate the autonomy to manage tasks and apply creative problem-solving. In team settings, I enjoy the collaborative exchange of ideas and the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives. This balance allows me to adapt to various work environments and contribute effectively.
When balancing multiple projects, how do you keep yourself organized?
I employ a structured approach to manage multiple projects:
- Task Breakdown: Decompose projects into smaller, actionable tasks.
- Prioritization: Rank tasks based on deadlines and importance.
- Scheduling: Allocate specific time blocks for focused work on each task.
- Flexibility: Remain adaptable to adjust priorities as needed.
What's the best team you’ve ever been a part of and why?/What’s your ideal team?
The most effective team I participated in was during a marketing class project where we developed a brand strategy for a fictional company. Our team comprised individuals with diverse skills: creative design, data analysis, project management, and strategic planning. We fostered an environment of open communication, mutual respect, and trust, allowing each member to take ownership of their responsibilities. This collaborative synergy led to an innovative and well-received project, exemplifying the success achievable through cohesive teamwork.
By incorporating specific details and emphasizing the skills demonstrated, these responses provide a clearer picture of your experiences and competencies.
How much do you expect to be paid for a full-time position?
I am searching for the right opportunity for me. With that said, the company culture, the opportunity for learning and growth, and the work environment mean more to me in the short-term over compensation. I do believe, the right company will compensate me properly for the value that I create.
When are you available to start working full-time?
I graduated on May 10th, 2026 and decided to move to Austin, TX. I am available immediately in the Austin area.