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A cutting-edge internship program at East Tennessee State University is giving students real-world marketing experience while helping startups and small businesses grow. 

The Generative AI Marketing Internship Program, a partnership between ETSU’s College of Business and Technology and CloudWise Academy, pairs students with local companies to tackle real marketing challenges using cutting-edge AI tools. The ongoing program continues to offer new opportunities for students each semester. 

“This program puts students right in the middle of real-world problem-solving,” said Dr. Tony Pittarese, dean of the ETSU College of Business and Technology. “It combines hands-on learning with service to the community, and it’s exactly the kind of innovative, career-focused opportunity we want to provide.” 

Guided by ETSU faculty members Michelle Sullivan and Sonu Mirchandani, students use the Crushingit.ai playbook and other generative AI tools to create websites, refine messaging, boost social engagement and support go-to-market strategies. 

“This partnership addresses actual business challenges while giving students the hands-on experience to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications,” said Joe McKenna, founder and CEO of CloudWise Academy. 

The benefits go both ways:

• Students gain professional experience, build portfolios and develop high-demand skills in AI and digital marketing.
• Businesses receive tailored, AI-powered solutions designed to drive growth and engagement.

Enrollment is limited to 20 students per semester on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested students can contact program coordinator Sullivan at sullivac@etsu.edu. 

ETSU faculty and staff work tirelessly to help students land jobs with companies from Disney to BlueCross Blue Shield. Students getting hands-on learning opportunities is at the core of ETSU’s approach to education. 

It’s one of the many reasons ETSU is the flagship institution of Appalachia.