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MY STORY

Creativity has always been central to my identity, taking many forms from fashion design and makeup artistry to the culinary and visual arts. This creative nature eventually evolved to a deep passion for the world of marketing, where I have found a balance between artistry and strategy.


Great marketing truly brings a company to life, serving as a medium to connect with consumers and shape perceptions in society. I am particularly fascinated by the intersection of marketing and culture. Marketing is deeply layered and sells more than a product. It communicates values, builds communities, and reflects culture. This deeper purpose behind what may seem like surface-level advertising is what motivates me and drives my approach. Retail specifically interests me for its limitless boundaries in creativity and its ability to resonate with consumers. Driven by a desire to create experiences that inspire and empower consumers, I ultimately aspire to create a meaningful cultural impact through marketing and innovation, while promoting values I regard highly, such as authenticity. In doing so, I hope to touch others, mirroring my own inspirations that have led me here.


I have actively developed my skill set through hands-on involvement and professional experiences. Through my involvement in UMD AMA, I gained practical experience in website design and maintenance, email marketing, and team leadership, while also learning directly from industry professionals. Additionally, the Strategic Design Fellows Program has played a critical role in shaping my ability to think critically about marketing strategies, design, and brand positioning. It has also allowed me to develop proficiency in Adobe Creative Suit, an industry-standard toolset, allowing me to apply my strategic-thinking to true designs.


In Summer 2025, I worked as a Field Marketing Intern at Just Ice Tea. This experience was pivotal in further fueling my desire to pursue the retail industry, introducing me to the intricacies of retail operations, and providing hands-on experience in brand building. From in-store demos, community activations, and guerilla marketing to supporting influencer events, sales initiatives, social media efforts, and large-scale events like the Mubadala DC CITI open, this role emphasized the importance of adaptability, taking initiative, analyzing consumer behavior, and collaborating cross-functionally. 


As a curious and eager learner, I am excited to further explore the world of marketing and continue creating work that inspires.

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MAIE IKEMOTO

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