Kelsey Bennett: Creativity, Resilience, and Building a Future in Digital Marketing
Discovering a Passion for Marketing
For Kelsey Bennett, choosing a major was far from a straight path. “I bounced around quite a few different majors since beginning school, but none ever felt quite right,” she admits. Frustrated, she chose marketing almost by default—only to find herself falling in love with it.
“I was an art and journalism kid in high school, so digital marketing takes all the creative and fun bits from those two fields and combines them with business,” she explains. “When creativity is paired with business, it gives it a goal and a new way to spin things with infinite ideas.”
From National Awards to Career Aspirations
Kelsey’s creative talent is undeniable. In high school, she won a national journalism award for a graphic design logo she created. “It gives me hope that one day I can keep up my creative streak in marketing and maybe win another, more major award in the future,” she says.
Her career dreams are equally ambitious. Inspired by guest speakers from VML, a renowned marketing agency, Kelsey envisions herself working on high-profile campaigns. “They’ve helped create Super Bowl commercials and collaborations with celebrities,” she shares. “It all just seems like a crazy adventure with endless stories ready to be created.”
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Kelsey’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In 2021, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) after waking up temporarily blind in one eye. “It was a blessing in disguise,” she reflects. “Catching it early allowed me to stop progression before it even started.”
The experience profoundly shaped her outlook. “It taught me gratitude, resilience, and the value of a strong support system,” she says. “MS will always be part of my life, but it’s a challenge I’m determined to overcome.”
Values and Influences
Two values guide Kelsey’s life: loyalty and kindness. “Sticking by your loved ones is the greatest thing you can do,” she says. She also strives to spread kindness daily, believing that “one kind word could make or break a stranger’s day.”
Kelsey draws inspiration from YouTuber XO MaCenna, whose transition from marketing to DIY home renovation proves that creativity and passion can lead to incredible achievements. “She’s shown me that you can learn to do anything if you have drive and determination,” Kelsey says.
A Love for History, Animals, and Quiet Moments
When asked where she’d travel if given the chance, Kelsey’s answer is immediate: the Palace of Versailles. “I’ve always dreamed of seeing the old architecture and walking through the same halls as Marie Antoinette,” she says, revealing her passion for history.
Kelsey’s love for animals is equally strong. As secretary of the Northwest Advocates for Animal Awareness at her previous school, she helped run a Trap-Neuter-Release program and even became a certified animal control officer.
After a busy day, she enjoys curling up with her two cats and either diving into a good book or binge-watching TV. “It’s my way to unwind and recharge,” she says.
A Bright Future Ahead
With her blend of creativity, resilience, and ambition, Kelsey Bennett is ready to leave her mark in the world of digital marketing and beyond. Whether she’s dreaming up her next campaign or exploring the halls of Versailles, she approaches life with passion and purpose, making her someone to watch in the years to come.
Kiersten Robbins 