Hi everyone! I'm Emma Yakam, and I'm thrilled to announce that I will be taking over the Red Roof LinkedIn page today to share about myself and my time as an intern! Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, I attended and graduated from Columbus Academy. Currently, I am entering my junior year at the College of Charleston in South Carolina, where I am majoring in Marketing with a minor in Economics. On campus, I am actively involved in Kappa Delta, a social sorority dedicated to giving back to the community and the Girl Scouts of America, through volunteer opportunities and fundraising events. I was pleased to see that in the professional world, there are also opportunities like Red Roof’s Room in Your Heart program to give back to the community.
During my junior year of high school, I took a class that ignited my interest in marketing. We collaborated with companies like Pepsi and Sole Classics, helping them to solve problems dealing with brand marketing, digital marketing, and social media challenges. For instance, Coke sought ways to improve recycling marketing, while Sole Classics wanted to enhance social media outreach and platform navigation. Brainstorming ideas, from catchy slogans to put on cans to suggesting the use of a Link tree and promotional TikTok videos, fueled my passion for marketing. Transitioning into college, I enrolled in some marketing classes that reinforced my desire to pursue marketing. On the search for real-world experience, I pursued a marketing internship. At Red Roof this summer, I am eager to learn about various marketing team functions and their contributions to the company. Previously unfamiliar with these roles, this internship has already broadened my understanding by allowing me to rotate through different teams, igniting and furthering a desire to explore even more facets of marketing.
What initially drew me to Red Roof was the company’s welcoming atmosphere and the genuine kindness of its employees. Throughout the interview process, everyone was extremely inviting and easy to connect with, sparking my eagerness to join the team as an intern. This welcoming environment has persisted during my time at the office, with everyone shooting a smile and ready to spark in conversation, often asking, “How are things going for you?” and finishing with “If you need anything ever, let me know.” My internship at Red Roof has already been filled with countless memorable moments, however one that stands out is our visit to Canine Companions, a partner organization of Red Roof's, which raises donations through the Room in Your Heart program. As a dog lover, witnessing the impactful work of Canine Companions was truly remarkable. Exploring the facility, hearing about their mission, and learning about their journey were enriching experiences. The highlight, of course, was getting to interact with some of the dogs at the end of our tour, adding an extra layer of joy to an already special outing!
Award-Winning Marketer, Event Planner, Communicator
2wI am proud to report that my Gardenuity desktop succulent garden, which I've had since 2022, is thriving, and tending to it has become part of my self-care regimen. Thanks Donna, Doug, and the whole Gardenuity team for sharing your knowledge and passion with our SHE community! 🌱