When Familiar Walls Teach New Lessons

When I graduated from Iowa State University with my degree in Agricultural Communication this December, I felt ready to start my career, but I also knew there was still so much I had to learn. What I didn’t expect was how quickly I would be stepping into a bigger role. In January, I began working full-time at Emerge. At the same time, I stepped in to help fill responsibilities at Stewart Memorial Hospital & Clinics. Transitioning from student to full-time professional is one thing. Jumping into a massive role is another thing. It has stretched me in the best way.

From Classroom to Real Conversations

College teaches you strategy, theory, and fundamentals. But real growth happens in conversations, decision-making moments, and deadlines that don’t move. Working with clients like Stewart Memorial has shown me how much responsibility comes with marketing, especially in healthcare. Every post, every article, every campaign isn’t just about engagement. It’s about people. It’s about trust. Healthcare communication requires accuracy, compassion, and clarity. You are not simply promoting a service. You are educating a community. The information you share has the potential to influence someone’s health decisions and, in some cases, even change their life. That realization changed how I approach my work.

Learning Faster Than I Thought I Could

There have been moments where I’ve had to figure things out quickly. Moments where I’ve needed to trust my instincts. Moments where I’ve asked questions, taken notes, and learned on the fly. And honestly? That’s where the most growth has happened. Stepping into a larger role sooner than expected has forced me to build confidence. Not because I felt 100% ready, but because I had to rise to the occasion. I’ve learned that confidence doesn’t come before responsibility. It comes from handling responsibility.

A Lifelong Connection

Stewart Memorial has been a part of my life long before I started working here. My mom has been a nurse there for nearly 20 years, and my stepdad has been a physician in Lake City for almost as long. I practically grew up in the hospital. I remember sneaking rainbow sherbet from the nurses’ break room freezer, bouncing on a yoga ball in the old fitness center in the basement, and attending Big Brother Big Sister classes in the conference room.

Those experiences gave me a unique perspective on this place. It’s more than just a building, it’s a place where people come together, and where care for the community is evident in everything they do. Now, stepping into a professional role where I help share the hospital’s story feels especially meaningful. I understand the trust the community places in Stewart Memorial, and that awareness shapes how I approach every project.

Growing Through Challenges

With this being my first professional role straight out of college, and at just 20 years old, every day has been a learning experience. I’ve been in this position since the beginning of January, and stepping into responsibilities sooner than I expected has shown me how much growth can happen when you’re a little outside your comfort zone. Some of the best opportunities are the ones that push you before you feel fully ready. Even in these first few months, I’ve already learned how to think like a marketer, communicate thoughtfully, and approach projects with both care and creativity.

This hospital shaped who I am, and now, through my work at Emerge, I get to help share the story of Stewart Memorial and the people who make it so important to the community.

– Makelsie Gorden