College of Education and Behavioral Sciences News

This summer, not one, but five Hilltoppers gained first-hand experience in the fast-paced world of advertising under the guidance of one of Kentucky’s oldest and most established creative agencies: Doe-Anderson Inc.

Kaity Weitlauf (’23), Isaac Teske (’23), Jack Quinn (’23), MaKenzie Bradley (’23), and Camaren Pursley couldn’t wait to begin their internship within the Louisville institution.

“They support big ideas and new perspectives,” said Pursley, a WKU senior and Advertising major.

It was that spirit of innovation that inspired the union between Doe-Anderson and WKU’s own creative agency, Imagewest, for a three-year partnership. Hilltoppers gain invaluable access to Doe-Anderson’s decades of experience under the guidance of their team of industry leaders and opportunities to engage in internships at the organization. 

Interns collaborate on a variety of projects that include experience in multiple facets of advertising - from copywriting to project management to art direction, and more. 

Kaity Weitlauf is enjoying the opportunity to expand her skillset and challenge herself as a Strategy Intern. 

“We are working on a campaign for the Louisville Zoo’s Wild Lights event that will take place next spring. My role on the project is to conduct research and create a strategy to increase the event’s attendance. To accomplish this, I research the company, culture, product/service category, and the consumer,” described Weitlauf.

Isaac Teske, a Louisville native, is similarly excited to gain new skills and learn from professionals in the advertising industry immediately after graduation. 

“I will be working with numerous global and local clients. I have participated in the filming of commercials, I will aid in the creation of visual guidelines for campaigns, I will provide visual direction as well as creative ideation for campaign ideas and executions, and much more!” exclaimed Teske, who is interning in Art Direction.

Jack Quinn noted the value of not only learning from the professionals, but also having a unique collaborative experience with fellow Hilltoppers. 

“Working alongside other Hilltoppers has been great because I know that they have a strong base of knowledge and practical skills that are developed at WKU and specifically within PCAL,” said Quinn, a Journalism major and Copywriting Intern.

Not only are students enjoying learning together and honing the technical skills they will use in their careers, but they are also opening doors to their futures.

“This experience has allowed me to meet people within the industry. It has been a great networking opportunity and has given me great insight as to where I fit within this industry,” shared Advertising major and Media Intern, MaKenzie Bradley.

When asked what advice they would give to other Hilltoppers interested in exploring internship opportunities, Pursley summed it up perfectly.

“Apply. Give it a shot. Skills are built, and experience builds those skills. Internships are just a stepping stone to the future you have in store.”

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Imagewest is an award-winning, student-run advertising and public relations agency at Western Kentucky University. In 2004, Imagewest became the first student-powered revenue-generating advertising, public relations and design agency in the United States.

For additional information about joining Imagewest, contact Kara Williams Glenn at kara.williamsglenn@wku.edu.

Learn more about the partnership between Imagewest and Doe-Anderson Inc. with WKU Alumni's news article from April 2023.