An Introduction to Marketing (MKT 310) class recently completed their semester-long experiential learning project; developing marketing plans for real-life, local businesses.
Starting on April 23, two teams made their presentations to Christine M. Buhler (Director of Development & Marketing) and Danielle Limata (Communications Coordinator) of the Talcott Mountain Science Center and Academy. On April 30, four more teams of students presented their marketing plans to two more businesses. The first client was Amy Woodman, RD, owner of Farmington Valley Nutrition and Wellness in Simsbury. The second clients were Kirsten Hocker and Sarah Besocke,co-owners of Gather on Hopmeadow.
The clients were awed by the number and quality of creative marketing ideas they received. Christine Buhler says, "Thank you again for inviting us to work with your students on this project. It was very worthwhile for us. I know we will be meeting to review some of the ideas to determine which to consider integrating into our operations." Now that all presentations are completed, the groups' final papers are being sent to the businesses for more in-depth recommendations.
The students also appreciated this experiential opportunity with Professor Brian Jud, Adjunct Professor of Marketing. Student Lauren Matias says, “This class has given me much confidence not only in regards to my architecture client proposals, but also the business industry in general.”
These clients are from local Chambers of Commerce and their positive experiences with this project will permit other Chamber companies to participate in this course in the future.