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"I didn't know that B.B.A.s started at Enterprise, and that there were many opportunities for people to move up through their management trainee program," said Morales, who majored in marketing and management. The program will enable her to run an office within a year, then to move into a corporate position in marketing, recruiting, or sales management, among others. The position at Enterprise was one of many she learned about through her AMA membership. That's because the people who speak at the meetings are professionals from companies with job openings. They explain what their company does and what it offers to employees. In addition to learning about the job she took, being in AMA made the search process much easier for Morales. "Through networking, members became friends and watched for possible jobs for each other," she said. "We also got tips from the national organization every month." Morales's busy schedule—including a full-time job and a full schedule of night classes—meant that she had to be very selective about taking on other activities. Still, she wanted to be part of something at the College. "I thought a professional organization would be a good choice," she said, "and I was right."
Since graduating from high school, Alice Estevez knew that after college she wanted to be involved in sports management and marketing. And she's achieved that goal early. Even though she won't graduate until December 2004, she is marketing coordinator for the Florida Marlins—a great fit for someone completing a B.S. in physical education (sports management track) with a minor in marketing.
"A representative of the Marlins talked to our group about an upcoming marketing initiative and explained how to apply," she said. Estevez secured the plum position and is now busy—at and between the games. On a regular basis, she acts as a liaison between the Marlins' ad agency and the team's creative department. "I deal with TV, print, and radio ads, making sure everything is taken care of and that we meet deadlines," she said. Before home games, Estevez spends time in fan headquarters answering questions, or circulates in the stands with the Marlin Mermaids. She even gets to take clients to batting practice from time to time. These two students aren't the only ones singing the praises of the AMA. At the 26th Annual International Collegiate Conference, the College's Chapter received "Top Regional Chapter," placing it at Number One in the South (out of 75 chapters) and in the Top Four (out of 300 chapters) nationally. The Chapter was recognized for having maintained a 150-member roster, hosting thirteen professional recruitment seminars, raising more than $12,000 to subsidize attendance at the Conference for 22 members, participating in eight community service programs during the year, and enhancing its web site.
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Nadia Morales (BBA '04) thought that Enterprise Rent-A-Car was all about
car rentals. But when Chad Naylor, Regional Recruiting Manager, spoke at an American Marketing Association (AMA)
meeting on campus, she got the big picture—one in which she could see herself.
Having a clear goal certainly helps a person plan his or her future.
But finding the right job isn't always easy. That's where the College Chapter of AMA came in for Estevez. Among
the monthly speakers was one who said just what she wanted to hear.