What I learned at Eleanor — Kelsey Johnson

Like many new grads, I was wrestling with every self-doubting thought imaginable: Did I choose the right major? Am I actually prepared for the “real world”? Did I just waste four years of my life? You name it, I thought it. But from day one, Eleanor and the incredible people here eased that anxiety. They made me feel not only in the right place, but on the right path—one that’s brighter than I could have ever imagined.

I could fill pages with everything I’ve learned this summer—from time management and client interactions to helping take a brand from ground zero to launch, the list of tactical skills could go on forever. But, if I’m being honest, my two biggest takeaways are this:

1. Never put yourself in a box.
2. I chose the right major. (lol)

I came into this summer with most of my experience in social media management and content creation, thinking that was all I was really good at—or all I could offer in my career. Thankfully, Eleanor never let me think so narrowly about myself.

If you’d asked me at the start of the summer what my biggest weakness was in marketing, I would have said—without hesitation—copywriting. I’d never been part of the newspaper, website, or magazine world, so I just naturally assumed it was something I just couldn’t do. But looking back now, I might have worked on more copywriting projects than social media ones over the past few months.

This summer, I’ve helped write two brand-new websites and refresh another. I’ve drafted over 100 social captions, both organic and paid, published articles in a magazine, and even brainstormed copy for everything from Husker signage to porta potty marathon sponsorships (yes, really). It’s been incredibly rewarding—and honestly, confidence-building—to take on something I once thought I couldn’t do, and do it at a level Eleanor was proud to stand behind.

Now for perhaps the most important lesson I learned this summer: I did choose the right career path, and I did not waste the last four years of my life. I’ve always loved anything that blends creativity with strategy, so marketing and advertising felt like the perfect fit.

Sure, I had my post-graduation panic—“Do I even like what I’ve signed up to do for the next 40 years?”—but after this summer and all my experiences at Eleanor, I can confidently say I wouldn’t change a thing.

I’m endlessly grateful for the encouraging, nurturing, and motivating people at Eleanor. They’ve not only made me excited for my future, but also confident in the choices that brought me here. My time with them has been full of learning, growth, and inspiration—and I’ll carry those lessons with me throughout my career. They’ve taught me more than they’ll ever know, and I can only hope I’ve made them as proud as they’ve made me grateful.

That being said—drumroll please—I’m beyond excited to share that Eleanor has offered me a full-time role! I’ll be joining the team in the Omaha office this September, and I couldn’t be happier. This opportunity is absolutely perfect. I’ve always dreamed of living in a new city post-grad, so being part of Eleanor’s recent Omaha expansion and helping grow that office is incredibly exciting.

I’ve genuinely loved working with everyone here, and I can’t wait to tackle even more projects alongside them. I’m so proud that the team has recognized my contributions and believes I’ll be a strong addition to their already beautifully run agency. Eleanor is fast-paced, passionate, positive, playful, and personable—and I feel so lucky to officially be a part of it.

Kelsey joined us this summer fresh out of college and quickly proved herself as a creative, adaptable, and confident contributor. From writing copy for websites and social campaigns to brainstorming big ideas, she’s tackled it all with curiosity and a positive attitude.

Outside of work, Kelsey loves blending creativity with strategy—so it’s no surprise she’s already helping shape exciting projects in our Omaha office.

Join us in welcoming Kelsey to Eleanor!