by Kathleen Chuc, Fulfillment Fund Marketing & Communications Intern
They say rejection is redirection, and I am grateful that this saying became my reality.
After receiving so many rejections from college clubs I had applied to, I wasn’t feeling very optimistic about landing an internship in a field I was interested in: marketing. That’s why it came as a surprise when I heard back from Fulfillment Fund with my first “yes.”
At first, I was in disbelief. This opportunity felt like a dream that had been out of reach. I couldn’t believe I would have the chance to work alongside professionals in a field I wanted to explore.
A Supportive Start
During my first meeting with Carla Trujillo, Lead Career Advisor, I felt instantly reassured. She gave me an overview of my role at Fulfillment Fund and worked with me to create a schedule that fit around my classes. Knowing there was someone there to guide me through the process was incredibly comforting.
As I prepared for my first day, I felt immense gratitude toward my parents for moving to a country where I would have greater opportunities to pursue a career I’m passionate about. To this day, I still remember my mom smiling and feeling proud of me for working so hard to get here.
My First Day at Fulfillment Fund
On my first day, I was introduced to the Marketing Team: Natalia Bonilla and Cyndi Otteson. They welcomed me with open arms and matcha.
After introductions, we headed downstairs to get to know each other over a cup of matcha. Connecting on a more personal level immediately made me feel relaxed and comfortable. It showed me that I was joining an organization that provided a safe space to learn, make mistakes, and grow as both a marketer and a person.
When we returned to the office, I was invited to sit in on a meeting about brand awareness. This became a defining moment for me. The professionals in the room valued my perspective and ideas, which gave me a sense of validation.
I listened attentively as ideas were built upon through collaboration and thoughtful discussion. I was fascinated by the creative process and excited to contribute to a project that was beginning to take shape: Fulfillment Fund’s College Success branded stickers.
Being able to observe and participate in brainstorming sessions made me think more critically about how I could contribute original ideas in future meetings.
Finding my Place in Marketing
After reviewing Fulfillment Fund’s brand guidelines and website, I moved into what would become my favorite part of the day.
I joined a meeting focused on TikTok engagement. As someone who loves social media, especially TikTok, I was excited to help brainstorm content ideas.
That same day, I appeared in my first Fulfillment Fund TikTok. Despite never creating content where I was the focal point, I decided to fully embrace the opportunity. It gave me the confidence to simply go for it—and fortunately, the video performed well.
At the end of that first day, I walked away with valuable lessons and even more certainty that marketing was where I wanted to be.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
With that same sense of excitement, I walked into the office every Thursday ready to learn something new and contribute wherever I could.
One of my first introductions to the marketing industry was through DigiMarCon, the largest Digital Marketing, Media, and Advertising Conference in the world. Through virtual sessions, I listened to industry experts discuss emerging AI tools, innovative strategies, and the future of marketing.
Hearing directly from professionals across different industries expanded my understanding of what marketing can be and inspired me to continue learning.
Outside of learning marketing strategies, I was also challenged to get out of my comfort zone and get in front of an audience. I was invited to speak on stage at a scholarship ceremony for graduating high school seniors, where I would share my experience as a first-year, first-generation UCLA student and the journey that helped me get there. As someone who hasn’t had the most public speaking experience, I was happy yet nervous to be a speaker. I knew that I had valuable insight I could share about my experience but at the same time, I was a bit nervous about going up on stage and having to talk to a group of students. However, I had nothing to worry about because everyone at Fulfillment Fund was so incredibly supportive by giving me tips, encouragement and providing me with preparation opportunities. Their care made me realize that I was part of a community who deeply cares about helping students like me succeed in every aspect of their lives.
Building New Skills
As the internship continued, I was also given the resources to showcase my work and advance my skills. Creating a portfolio is something that I’ve always wanted to do but never really knew how to do it. When I heard that there was a workshop that was being offered by Fulfillment Fund partner Capital Group on how to build a digital portfolio using Figma and Framer, two applications I had never heard of before, I knew where to start. When I joined the online session, I was initially worried that I wouldn’t be able to get help if I got stuck along the way. When I joined this online meeting, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get help if I got stuck along the way. However, Jordania Pereyra, a Software Engineer at Capital Group and Chair of Fulfillment Fund’s ScholarBridge, Jordania Pereyra was patient with us and made sure that everyone was following along. Thanks to the resources that were shared with me, I am happy to say I have officially finished my digital portfolio. This opportunity has helped me elevate my skills and showcase all the work that I have done this far.
Finding My Voice Through Writing
Another skill that I have learned through this intern was improving my writing skills by writing my first blog. This has been a unique opportunity for me to explore my voice as a writer. Through this process I learned to write and connect the support of the college access counselors, college success advisors, and how Fulfillment Fund continues to help their students beyond college. Along the way, I have had the help and feedback of the Marketing team on my drafts and in developing my storytelling skills as a writer.
Celebrating Student Success
Nearing the end of my time at Fulfillment Fund, I have been invited to join them on their special events. The first was celebrating Decision Day with other High School students at RFK Community Schools. Decision Day is an annual event where seniors announce their college commitments and celebrate the next chapter of their educational journey. I was looking forwards to this event because being a first-year in college, decision day was not that long ago for me. I was excited for the students because after being at Fulfillment Fund for some time, I’ve learned about the great things they are doing to help other students like me succeed.
As a part of the marketing team, I was able to record a vlog of our day with the students. Creating this video was a fun experience for me because I got to lean into my creative side and edit something that I felt excited about. On top of that, I had the chance to attend Fulfillment Fund’s Sip and Celebrate Gala where I helped record a Glambot video featuring our guests. Having everyone dressed up and captured the different colors and styles that our guests were wearing was so much fun for me. Not only was making this video fun but meeting guests through this production was an amazing experience for me.
Looking Back
Looking back at the different opportunities I have had at Fulfillment Fund, I recognize how much experience I have gained and how much I will be able to take with me. This internship has allowed me to grow as an individual and has helped me navigate which career I want to pursue. A huge thank you to everyone in this organization who has made me feel welcomed and has encouraged me through this journey.
