Q&A With BPD Summer Intern Madison Levine
Madison Levine—BPD Summer Intern, 2018
School Attended:
For undergrad, I went to Florida State University and I’m currently a grad student at the University of Florida.
Year in School:
About to start my first year as a Master’s student
What will you be doing after your internship?
Attending the Professional Master’s in Mass Communications Graduate Program at the University of Florida.
What career path do you see yourself taking? (What job do you see yourself having in the future?)
In the Advertising field, somewhere on the account side. I want to work closely with clients, communicating campaign strategies and creative ideas on behalf of an agency.
Why did you choose to do your internship at BPD?
A few months ago, I shadowed one of the BPDerrrs at a photoshoot for a campaign in the works at the time. Every single BPDerrr was so willing to share with me—explaining what was going on and answering my many questions.
The next year, when planning my summer before grad school, I wanted to get some hands-on agency experience to decide on a direction for my graduate studies and help prepare me for my future. BPD was the instinctive choice, because aside from my personal shadowing experience, I heard such incredible reviews of the agency across the board.
One of the main things that drew me to BPD was that almost everything I read or heard about employees’ experiences centered around an incredibly friendly and supportive work environment. That’s the kind of place I want to work.
What were your biggest take-aways from your experience here?
This experience wasn’t your typical internship. I wasn’t sent out to run errands or make copies. I wasn’t there to get people coffee or do menial tasks. I had the chance to be a true asset. I worked on real assignments and had a significant role in the day-to-day work, which made me motivated and excited to come in every day.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
I would encourage them to make the most of their opportunity, these experiences are what you make of them. The more you try to get immersed in the work, the more you will learn. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Interns aren’t expected to know everything. There will almost always be things you don’t understand—that’s why you’re there. You can only learn from your willingness to find out. So, go ahead and ask those questions… Each new piece of knowledge and insight will help you be a bigger asset.
What was the number one thing you have learned here?
Through all the teams that make up BPD, it is critical for all members of each team to work together. At such an integrated advertising agency, there are so many moving parts that involve several different team members who contribute their own perspective—so communication is key.
What event, project, or activity was the most memorable for you this summer?
Being involved in brainstorm sessions was one of my favorite activities from my experience. When creative minds come together to come up with fresh ideas for a new concept or campaign, there’s no telling how many and what kinds of interesting results will manifest.
Being able to contribute and be a part of this was something I never thought I would have had the opportunity to do as an intern. But here at BPD, these things are encouraged. Giving all team members the chance to contribute is just one example of why the BPDerrrs work so cohesively.
How would you describe our company culture?
BPD has a set of workplace values that everyone stays true to and truly believes in. They make it a priority to be sure employees are happy and comfortable in the environment. Here, the culture is very respectful and supportive, and BPDerrrs put other team members first. The leaders and participants really want to see everyone succeed. These are just a few key aspects of a foundation that inspires greatness.
What BPDerrrs did you work with or what team?
I worked with a wide range of teams in the office—from creative to media—so I was fortunate to get a glimpse into many areas across the agency. Everyone was helpful and willing to contribute to my experience, allowing me to do things that helped me learn so much, both on my own and with the team’s supervision.
What did you learn about their roles here?
Aside from gaining an understanding of how each member from every team at BPD has such a unique role, I learned a lot about the relationship between the Account Manager and Project Manager. The two work so closely to understand and capture the needs and ideas from both client and account sides. Their partnership figures out how to achieve goals of each, smoothly and efficiently, allowing for the successful execution of the work.
Do you feel like this internship helped you better prepare for your future/career?
Absolutely! I think one of the best ways to learn is through experience. More than any course I can take or book I could read, my experience at BPD has shown me first-hand what advertising is like in the real world. I’ve had such an incredible and invaluable experience, and I can’t thank everyone enough for being a part of it and giving me this opportunity.