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October 2009 Student Spotlight
Caroline Donegan Finds Answers Outside the Classroom
By Ryan Simpson
Caroline Donegan, Marketing/Sales major, will move directly into her master's program once she graduates. Both of her parents attended Missouri State University and that’s where she drew her inspiration on what to study. Originally, she wanted to become a teacher after working as a nanny for numerous families, but her father's profession was ultimately too enticing. “I saw the benefits of a career in sales by observing what my father was able to accomplish in his career,” remarked Donegan. Sales covers a wide variety of positions and companies so she needed to learn more about her potential career path and that meant internships.
Communication skills are key in the sales profession, and Donegan practices by presenting to her sales class.
Donegan traveled to St. Louis this past summer and experienced an internship with Major Brands, a premium wine and liquor distributor, that she would never forget. It turned out to be the exciting sales position she had envisioned. Every day was different. She would merchandise and stock some days, work in the office others, and road trip with sales reps to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. Large and small businesses all around St. Louis were paid a visit to check stock on items or make new orders, but not all of her trips were strictly business. “What I liked about Major Brands was they focused on having fun while you work and building relationships. We would stop in on clients just to say, 'Hi.' That was a great environment for sales people and it's one I hope to fall into once I graduate,” reflected Donegan.
Another highlight was assisting in wine tastings at Major Brands’ offices for managers and employees of grocery stores. The wine experts at Major Brands were a living encyclopedia of wine knowledge and Donegan learned all she could. After all, if you don't know your product, you will have a tough time selling it.
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She had no problem convincing guests to partake during the "Jammin' at the Zoo" event. Major Brands’ suppliers donated wine, and people paid $20 to get in, sample wines, and listen to live music. The proceeds went to support the St. Louis Zoo. She was pouring wine and networking all night. Being in downtown St. Louis merchandising local bars during Major League Baseball's All-Star Week was another highlight she will never forget.
Donegan thrives in a fast-paced, interactive work environment. Working with people who enjoy their job and love coming to the office is something that Donegan says is a must-have for her career. For example, Major Brands' employees got together and competed against one another in a bowling tournament to raise money for Boys and Girls Club. They raised more money than any other company in St. Louis, $27,000.
Back at Missouri State, Donegan works in another fun environment -- as an usher for JQH Arena, Hammons Student Center, and Plaster Sports Complex. She has been working as an usher since late 2007 and is currently an usher captain. Interacting with guests and helping them to their seats is still something she enjoys. Another perk of being an usher is that she gets to see the acts that come to perform. In her own words she, “had to” see wrestling, but, “got to” see The Eagles when they performed last November.
Providing direction for patrons is one of the many tasks Caroline Donegan undertakes as Usher Captain.
As for the future, Donegan loved her experience at Major Brands and is ready to take an exciting job in sales when she graduates. She originally looked to pharmaceuticals, but now is unsure because of what’s happening in the industry. What she does know for sure is that a diverse, active career in sales is where she needs to be. After all, it’s in her blood.
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