Mary Widener
Decatur, GA
(678) 577-9976
EDUCATION
The University of Georgia, Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communications, Athens GA 2022-2026
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Majors: B.A. in Advertising, Minor in Studio Art
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GPA: 3.66
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Honors: Zell Miller Scholarship (Full Tuition), Cum Laude
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Relevant Coursework: Advanced Graphic Communication, Brand Storytelling, Media Strategy, Social Media Analytics, Advertising Communications Management, Advertising Campaigns, Advanced Film Photography, Digi Fabr & 3D design
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Study Abroad - ADPR in a Global Market
University of Georgia
Tokyo, Kyoto, & Osaka, Japan
May 2025
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Studied international advertising, public relations, and public affairs with a focus on cultural influence and global brand strategy in Japan.
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Visited and engaged with industry professionals at Coca-Cola Japan, APCO Worldwide Japan, and Edelman Japan to explore real-world campaign development and cross-cultural communication practices.
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Completed hands-on mini projects modeled after professional briefs, applying insights from Japanese market strategies to global brand adaptation.
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Gained practical understanding of how cultural values, media landscapes, and consumer behaviors shape advertising and PR decisions across international markets.
Marketing and Branding Assistant - Keller Williams Realty (Freelance)
Decatur, GA
2024-2026
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Designed branded social media content and property marketing materials to promote listings and enhance online engagement.
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Assisted in developing a cohesive visual identity across Instagram, Facebook, and print materials.
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Created and edited graphics using Canva and Adobe Creative Suite for agent announcements, open houses, and seasonal campaigns.
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Supported copywriting for social media captions and email newsletters to align with brand tone and audience.
Advertising Campaign Project - LifeLink of Georgia
(Client Partnership)
University of Georgia
Spring 2026
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Collaborated with a student team and local organization to develop a full transmedia advertising campaign for LifeLink - Georgia's top organ donation facilitator.
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Conducted consumer and competitive research to inform positioning, creative brief, and brand strategy.
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Designed a cohesive campaign across multiple platforms, including digital and out of home activations.
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Presented strategic and creative recommendations to the client, aligning insights, messaging, and design across platforms.
Advertising Campaign Project - Molly’s Coffee Co. (Client Partnership)
University of Georgia
Spring 2025
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Collaborated with a student team to develop a full rebranding and transmedia storytelling campaign for a local coffee shop.
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Conducted consumer and competitive research to inform positioning, creative brief, and brand strategy.
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Designed a refreshed visual identity, loyalty program, pop-up activation, and social media content to increase engagement and brand recognition.
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Presented strategic and creative recommendations to the client, aligning insights, messaging, and design across platforms.
Founder & Curator - Depop Shop
(upcycled and resale) 2020-Present
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Manage a self-run resale and upcycling brand focused on curated vintage and handmade clothing.
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Style, photograph, and edit product imagery to maintain consistent brand identity across listings and social media.
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Write engaging product copy and manage pricing, customer service, and order fulfillment.
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Grew online presence and sales through aesthetic consistency, social media engagement, and trend-driven merchandising.
ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE
Paloma Park - Bartender, Athens, GA December 2023 - Present
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Crafting a variety of cocktails and beverages to meet customer preferences and enhance their experience.
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Working closely with a team of bartenders to coordinate drink preparation and distribution during busy gamedays, ensuring timely service.
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Providing exceptional customer service by engaging with patrons, taking orders, and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.
Free People - Stylist,
Atlanta, GA May 2023 - Present
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Assist shoppers through their process of evaluating and trying on clothing, as well as making purchases and returns.
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Confirm and validate availability of items in store and online, helping resolve any customer issues.
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Clean and prep for opening and closing of the store, including opening and closing tills and depositing cash.
SKILLS
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Adobe Creative Suite
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Photography, digital and analog (development, printing, editing)
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Brand Identity Design & Brand Strategy
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Creative Brief and Campaign Development
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Consumer Research & Market Insights
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Marketing Analytics (Brandwatch, Google Ads)
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Project Management & Collaboration
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Customer Service and Client Relations