One critical aspect of a business’ success is how it presents and markets itself. Jill DiTommaso ‘24 is spending her summer learning that firsthand by interning at Engagious, a message-testing and market research firm. The political science major and economic minor’s work is supported by the Center for Career and Professional Advising’s Whitehead Internship Program, which funds summer work in the realms of finance, entrepreneurship, small business, or venture capital.

Engagious, a completely remote firm, meets with businesses of all types and provides advice as to how those businesses can reinvent their images through their communications. They additionally conduct interviews, dial-tests, and focus groups to better understand the demographics they serve. DiTommaso, working remotely from her home in New Jersey, has helped the firm at all levels of the process.

“I have helped to gather information and write scripts for actors to read to the focus groups,” she said. “I have also had the opportunity to help with Engagious' monthly Swing-Voter Project and write an article—alongside the president of Engagious, Rich Thau—about the June swing voter groups in The Bulwark.”

The comapny's work falls perfectly at the intersection of DiTommaso’s major and minor, as it extends to political campaigns, corporations, advocacy groups, and banking companies. She also values the opportunities to hone her research, writing, and professional communication skills.

“I have been tasked with gathering contact information of various lobbyists, political journalists, and other media personnel to help Engagious with various forms of outreach. Every now and then I get tasked with a larger project, like assisting with script or article writing,” DiTommaso said. She also attends focus groups, interviews, and meetings with clients, making her a valuable member of the Engagious team.

DiTommaso isn’t the only member of the Haverford community to be a part of that team, however; Engagious president Thau is a member of the Class of 1987. Thau is mentoring her in many aspects of professional development.

“Not only have I learned so much about his career and that of the company, but also about the ins and outs of working a corporate internship,” she said. “As a Haverford alumni, Rich has also been a great resource in connecting me with other alumni and offering career advice in the process.”

DiTommaso hopes to gain more experience conducting market research and working through the social and political climates to effectively target certain audiences. Additionally, working with Engagious has helped her understand some of the marketing problems that modern corporations face.

“Summer Centered” is a series exploring our students’ campus-supported summer work.