Student Point of View

Partnerships Create Opportunities and Complement an ODU Education

By Ashley Comstock ’22, B.A. in Public Relations and Marketing Communications

My time as a student at Ohio Dominican has turned out to be so much more than I ever could have imagined. As a freshman, I had no idea what I wanted to do or where I wanted to go in life. However, just a few years later, as a senior, my path ahead couldn’t be more clear and exciting.

Ashley Comstock ’22 in front of the throne in White Castle’s new headquarters in downtown Columbus, where she completed an internship last fall.

I can vividly recall a conversation I had with my Spanish professor during my first year when he found out I had yet to choose a major. He remarked how polished my communication skills were and that he could see me studying Public Relations and Marketing Communications. Before I knew it, I was meeting with the program director who helped me realize that program was indeed a perfect match.

My classes challenged, stretched and energized me. I loved every minute of it. Before long, I began searching for internships that would allow me to get some “real-world” experience. ODU’s Career Development Center let me know of a partnership between ODU and White Castle that created internship opportunities for students at its new headquarters in downtown Columbus. With their help, advice and coaching, I was selected to be one of 10 students from ODU to intern at White Castle this past fall.

This internship was a huge blessing. It not only allowed me to work alongside some of the kindest and most passionate professionals I’ve ever met, it also introduced me to life in marketing at a major family owned company. From meeting regularly with their brand manager to learning the ins and outs of running corporate social media accounts, I soaked in every minute of it.

As amazing as my experience at White Castle was, I know none of it would have been possible if not for Ohio Dominican. At ODU, I found my niche, discovered my passion and learned how to use both to grow as a person, student and professional. I am extremely grateful for the support, guidance and care that I’ve received inside and outside of the classroom because it’s helped to make me who I am today.

President Gallaher, ODU Trustee John Kelley ’05 and White Castle Leadership Team members, ODU staff and student interns during a special visit and tour on Oct. 6.