Eliza Conrad, a dual-degree student with majors in Business Management and Political Science, interned at Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits in Stamford, Conn. over the summer. Her official position was the Brand Management Intern for Josh Cellars Wines. Eliza applied for the position through the company’s Human Resources Department and completed a full day of interviews plus dinner with her future supervisors before being offered the position.

At Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Eliza completed three major intern projects: a sales audit of a major media partner; an audit and research analysis for Josh Cellars Wines’ social media; and a detailed social media strategy for the brand to use during an upcoming promotion. Her internship taught her more about brand management through real-life application. For instance, while taking part in long-term planning for the brand, Eliza learned how strategy, marketing, sales and pricing are all intertwined and how the smallest change can impact every aspect of the plan. Her least favorite part of her experience was her commute from Fairfield to Stamford. A majority of the full-time employees were from New York and many after-work events were hosted in the city. Because of transportation, she was unable to attend many of the events!

After her summer internship, Eliza realized she is interested in spending a few years in the business sector doing brand management before attending graduate school. She is also now well-versed in the wine and spirits industry if anyone is interested in learning more!

Eliza’s advice: “It is absolutely alright if you are not sure your internship aligns exactly with your dream job or location. Take advantage of the opportunities to work and learn in new settings because you may find that you have a passion for your internship or you learned about a work environment/dynamic that you want to be a part of. Apply to as many internships as you can, go to all of the interviews, and be confident in your knowledge and abilities!”