Data Analysis: Marketing isn’t just ads and social media. Data analysis and mathematical concepts, such as statistics and basic arithmetic, are huge in the field as analyzing trends, performance metrics, and customer behavior helps refine strategies. Having a strong background in statistics is key, so starting with courses like AP Statistics can make a huge difference in your future career.

Consumer Insight: Marketers need to understand what drives people to make decisions, usually with market analysis (demographics, psychographics, geographics, and behavioral), to find something that connects with them. 

Creativity: Marketing relies on fresh, attention-grabbing ideas. Whether it’s a social media post or a full campaign, creativity makes the message stand out.

Communication: From writing captions to pitching to clients, strong communication helps marketers get ideas across clearly and persuasively. Additionally, learning how to use various channels of communication is crucial in finding the most optimal promotion strategy. 

Graphic Design: Knowing how to design visuals, from social media posts to brand logos, is essential for catching attention and making your message stick. Tools like Canva, Figma, or Adobe Express are great places to start.

Collaboration: Marketing often involves working in teams with designers, analysts, and clients, so teamwork and flexibility are key.

Adaptability: Trends change fast, especially in the modern technological world. Marketers must keep up with new platforms, tools, and consumer behaviors to stay relevant.

DECA: Compete in marketing cluster events like Integrated Marketing Campaign or various marketing roleplay series to truly apply marketing concepts to different business ideas.

Social media management for a local business or school club: Run for publicity or marketing for any school club and create reels and fliers, track engagement, and grow a following.

Intern with local small businesses: Many small businesses look for help promoting products online on social media platforms, providing opportunities for hands-on experience.

Volunteer at community events: Big events need help with marketing, outreach, and visual promotions, so always be on the lookout for volunteering opportunities on city websites.

Marketing competitions (e.g. ICBSC, The Pitch, and other college competitions): These allow you to develop your own campaigns and present them to real judges, building confidence and a strong portfolio.

Summer programs at colleges: These programs teach branding, market research, and creative strategy through group projects and guest speakers.

• Many community colleges will also allow high school students to take college level courses and learn about business more in depth. 

School Clubs: