Marketing Boot Camp for Students 2026

Build your career story.
Get hired for a career in marketing.

AMA Chicago’s 5th annual Marketing Boot Camp for Students is a high-energy career accelerator that gives undergraduates and graduate students an inside look at what it really takes to get hired in today’s marketing world. Expect a day of workshops, discussions, tips and networking to jumpstart your career.

Who should attend: Undergraduate and graduate students preparing for a career in marketing.

You’ll gain:

• Real-world insights from marketing leaders on getting hired and preparing for a career in marketing
• Perspective on marketing career tracks and what employers are looking for
• Tips for building your LinkedIn profile, effectively networking and successfully interviewing
• Connections with AMA Chicago professionals who hire and mentor emerging talent

Plus, you’ll get:

• A certificate of completion to showcase on LinkedIn and your resume
• A free lunch!

Agenda

9:30–10 a.m.: Coffee and Networking
Enjoy coffee and set a goal of meeting 10 new contacts before the event starts.

10 a.m.: Welcome
Kevin Davis, Senior Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy, Erie Family Health Center, host for the day’s event.

10:05 a.m.: Tips on Personal and Professional Branding to Better Market Yourself
Panel discussion with marketers from nonprofit, agency and corporate organizations who will share insights on why building your personal and professional brand is critical to help market yourself in a career search.

10:45 a.m.: Front-Line Advice from In-House HR and Recruitment Professionals
Panel discussion on what hiring managers are looking for and key interview skills to prepare for the rapidly changing hiring and interviewing processes. Get tips on how to adapt and succeed.

11:35 a.m.: Break (10 min.)

11:45 a.m. AI’s Impact on Marketing Careers
Learn how AI is being used in marketing careers across a variety of roles including research, media, creative, strategy and sales. Learn how can you apply and demonstrate relevant skills.

12:25 p.m.: Lunch
LinkedIn Burst: Optimize your LinkedIn headline and “About” (profile) section in 10 minutes.

1 p.m.: Tips for Building Your Professional Network
Learn top activities for building your network with rigor and focus. You’ll have a chance to apply these tips in the live networking session later today!

1:25 p.m.: Empowering Future Professionals
Panel discussion with several emerging marketers who are within 3-7 years of starting their career; you’ll hear tips on how to add value, be flexible and advance in your career.

2:05 p.m.: How to Structure Any Presentation in 5 Minutes
A seasoned professional reveals the fail-proof elements of an impactful presentation.

2:25 p.m.: In-Person Networking Exercise
Mingle with today’s speakers and marketing professionals to begin building your network and gain 10–20 new contacts. Activities will be outlined and guidance provided.

2:55–3 p.m.: Closing Thoughts

Speakers and panelists are experienced Chicago marketing professionals who are also leaders and active members of AMA Chicago.