Ellie Sheehan

Ellie Sheehan, a fifth-year student and our December Student of the Month, chose to major in Marketing because it offered the perfect blend of creativity and strategic thinking. With a lifelong passion for the arts—dancing, singing, and performing in band, orchestra, and chorus—Ellie knew she wanted a career that allowed her to express ideas visually and conceptually. “Marketing is the perfect blend of creativity and strategy,” she said. “Being able to bring ideas to life, connect with audiences, and shape how people experience a brand is what inspired me to choose marketing.”

Her favorite class at Penn State has been MKTG 495A Prime Practicum with Dr. Jennifer Coupland, a course that provided invaluable real-world experience. Ellie worked directly with CeraVe and the media agency Assembly Global as part of the Creative Team. She developed creative concepts for CeraVe’s sunscreen line, collaborated with the Strategy and Planning team to turn consumer trends into full-funnel storytelling, and produced assets aimed at driving greater awareness and education around the brand. This hands-on experience strengthened her creative skill set and offered meaningful insight into the collaboration between brands and agencies.

Ellie’s dedication and passion for marketing extended beyond the classroom this summer when she interned at Wieland Small Tube Products in Duncansville, PA. As a Marketing Intern, she enhanced marketing materials, contributed to social media initiatives, and assisted with a website redesign. Following her December graduation, Ellie will return to Wieland full-time as a Marketing Coordinator, a role she is excited to begin as she continues to grow her expertise and support the company’s development.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ellie has made a significant impact on the Penn State community as the Drum Major of the Penn State Blue Band. Leading more than 300 members, she serves as the primary liaison between directors and students, fostering communication, unity, and a strong organizational culture. On the field, Ellie upholds tradition through the iconic front flip and split; off the field, she represents the Blue Band at interviews, public events, and community engagements. “Being the Blue Band Drum Major has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember,” she shared. “It has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my time at Penn State.”

Ellie also serves as a social media intern for the Smeal Marketing Department, a role that has allowed her to gain hands-on experience with digital strategy, analytics, and content creation. Working alongside fellow interns and Marketing Ambassadors, she has strengthened her storytelling skills and deepened her understanding of effective online engagement.

When asked what advice she would give to new students entering Smeal or the Marketing Department, Ellie reflected on the importance of involvement and connection:

“Your time at Penn State goes by incredibly fast. Getting involved and building connections early on is the key to making the most of your experience. By continually networking and putting yourself out there, you open the door to endless opportunities both personally and professionally. Penn State—and especially Smeal—is one big family. Make it your home, embrace every moment, and don’t take your time here for granted.”

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elliesheehan620

Instagram: ellie_sheehan4