Kelsey Henderson

Kelsey Henderson
Degree:
Agricultural Business

Describe your internship responsibilities:
As a Marketing Communications Intern in the Aftermarket Solutions department at CNH Industrial, I had countless opportunities involving a variety of CNH’s brands.  One of my core project areas was dealer marketing working towards the broader goal of creating a world-class dealer experience that is consistent, efficient, and multi-branded.  Enhancing online presence was another core project area I worked on by creating copy for the eCommerce website, adding image extensions, and working on SEO improvements.  With a newly launched line of lubricants, I worked closely with a couple of projects dedicated to this new line.  As part of our corporate sustainability mission, I coordinated an Impact Day for team members to participate in.  I also got the opportunity to continue to work when I went back to school as a Co-Op.  This position was something new each day with the opportunity to interact internally and externally while promoting multiple brands.

What did you enjoy most about this internship?
CNH Industrial has had a huge impact on my life from multiple FFA opportunities to their support at our county and state fairs.  This internship allowed me to be part of that bigger picture and help give back to a company that has impacted me in so many ways.  My favorite part of the internship was the people.  The people in the agricultural industry are unlike any other and it was great to work with my co-workers, dealers, farmers, and many others that have the same passion and respect for agriculture.

How has this experience impacted your future career plans?
This internship was the first step in my future career and helped me work towards my end goals.  One thing I learned about my future career plans is that I want to work directly with people and dealers/customers.  This interaction is one of a kind and it is great to make these connections.  Through my internship, I also learned many life lessons that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my professional and personal life.  I gained project management skills, improved my problem-solving skills, learned to adapt, and increased my professional skills.

What resources did you utilize to obtain this internship?
I was fortunate enough to obtain my internship through personal networking in my hometown.  The importance of networking is important in any internship you want to receive, and you should try to get your foot in the door in as many ways as possible through the career fair, personal connections, and recruiters.  Along with personal connections, the resources available at Iowa State are second to none and played a very important role in my internship selection process.  The list of people to thank that helped with resume, career fair, and internship preparation is endless.  A huge thank you to Mike Gaul and Career Services, the Agricultural Business major, my advisers, my peer mentors, and everyone else who played a role in me successfully landing an internship.  

What advice would you offer to other students seeking similar internships?
It is important to apply yourself in your education, get involved in extra-curriculars, and thoroughly do your research and prepare for the internship search.  The most important thing to remember when finding internships is to find your passion and follow what you love to do.  Find your why and tell your story.  Once you secure an internship, always strive to get better and ask lots of questions, be confident, and don’t just be an intern.  Internships are a great opportunity to take advantage of and are the first step in your future.