How this Auburn student landed a job in New York City after a summer internship

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For Auburn senior Kate Leeth, what started as a summer internship in The Big Apple turned into a full-time job offer from one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.

We caught up with Kate to learn how she did it and what advice she has for future students at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.

Meet Kate Leeth

Although Kate Leeth grew up in Birmingham, the Loveliest Village on the Plains has always felt like a second home.

“My dad grew up in Opelika, so he would bring my brother and me to Auburn games when we were little. What really drew me to Auburn University is that you get the big SEC school experience, while also getting the tight-knit community and small campus feeling.”

Kate Leeth

Kate began her college career at Auburn after graduating from The Altamont School in 2022. Like many students, Kate didn’t arrive on campus with a full career path laid out.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do after graduation. I have always been a creative person, so I knew I wanted to choose a profession where I was able to express that. On the other hand, I’ve also always enjoyed data and analytics.”

Kate Leeth

As she worked through her core courses, Kate realized that majoring in marketing would be the perfect balance of creativity and analytics she needed.

“The marketing electives at the Harbert College of Business are extremely hands-on. I really enjoyed working on a website and social media audit for the East Alabama Medical Center in my Digital Marketing course—they even applied some of our recommendations to their practices! It’s really special to get to work with local businesses and see the impact of our contributions.”

Kate Leeth

Thanks to the support of the college’s former Marketing Program Champion Danielle Corrigan, Kate was able to visit New York City—a city she’s dreamed of calling home since she was a child.

“When I told her I wanted to end up in New York City, she supported me every step of the way and encouraged me to compete in the NRF Foundation University Challenge, where I was able to speak with retail industry leaders and attend a career fair with companies like Target, Victoria’s Secret and Uniqlo.

It was an incredibly valuable experience and gave me the chance to connect with professionals across the retail world.”

Kate Leeth

How Kate landed an internship with one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world

During her time at Auburn, one of Kate’s friends strongly encouraged her to apply to a social media internship with Pfizer. Kate leaned on the Harbert College of Business‘s Office of Professional and Career Development (OPCD) for interview prep, help crafting her resume and advice on how to network and approach employers with confidence.

“I think my social media internship with the Harbert College of Business helped me stand out among other applicants. By managing the college’s Instagram and TikTok pages, I’ve gained hands-on experience with content creation, analytics and running high-traffic social channels.”

Kate Leeth

Thanks to her experience and help from the OPCD, Kate landed a paid social internship on Pfizer’s Performance Media Team, where she worked to develop a standardized creative submission template that helps the company navigate the nuanced regulations that apply to pharmaceutical paid social media.

After completing her internship, Kate received a job offer as a content engine associate with Pfizer, starting after her graduation from Auburn University in May 2026.

“What excites me most is getting to return to the people I worked with this summer. I built such meaningful relationships with other interns, my managers, and my team leads. I’m thrilled to tap into more of my creative strengths in this new role, and I can’t wait to grow in that direction.

I have to mention I have had the dream to live in NYC since I was 9 years old. Getting to fulfill that dream feels surreal!”

Kate Leeth

The Harbert College of Business helps prepare students like Kate for their careers

Whether you’re currently enrolled at or considering a business degree from Auburn University, the Harbert College of Business can help you make the most of your college career—and beyond.

“My advice for future students is to take advantage of your time at the Harbert College of Business; what you pour into it, it will pour back into you!

Start building your network; you are surrounded by classmates who share your interests and professors who genuinely want to help you grow. Networking does not have to feel intimidating or formal. It can be as simple as asking a professor a question after class or telling a classmate they did well on a presentation.

Although small, these efforts can sometimes lead to big opportunities.”

Kate Leeth

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