Featured Story: Chase Epps-Johnson

From Graduate Degree to Real-World Impact: Clarifying Direction in Marketing

Chase Epps-Johnson earned his Master of Science in Marketing and entered the workforce with strong academic training — but like many early-career professionals, translating that education into a clear career direction felt challenging. He had difficulty identifying the right professional path, articulating his strengths, and building meaningful connections. When he connected with Champion Objective, he was ready to grow but needed structure, clarity, and a strategic approach to launch his early career.

Background

Chase’s academic foundation positioned him well for roles in marketing, analytics, and business, yet the shift from the classroom to real-world expectations presented obstacles. He wasn’t always confident communicating his value during interviews and often questioned his readiness after conversations with employers. He also felt unsure about how to activate his professional network, limiting his exposure to opportunities.

He knew he wanted to build a career in Marketing Analytics and Marketing Technology (MarTech), but the next step wasn’t obvious. What he needed was a framework — a process to sharpen how he tells his story and navigate the beginning stages of his professional journey with confidence.

Champion Objective Process

Interview Preparation & Career Navigation

Chase learned how to communicate his strengths clearly, eliminate doubt in interviews, and present himself as a prepared, competitive candidate in analytics and MarTech roles.

Resume Development & Clarity of Direction

We refined his resume to align with analytics-driven and MarTech-focused roles, emphasizing quantifiable results, technical abilities, and the skills that set him apart.

Professional Networking & Exposure

Chase expanded his network through conversations with industry professionals and mentors, gaining visibility and a clearer understanding of how to break into the marketing landscape.

Mindset Shift

Through structured practice and guided conversations, Chase shifted from self-doubt to a mindset of confidence, clarity, and readiness, recognizing that he brings real value to any team.

Results

• Secured a Marketing Associate Internship with Georgia Tech Athletics, including office hours three days per week and responsibilities during athletic events.

• Selected as lead for tennis match operations in the spring, reflecting trust in his professionalism and growing capability.

• Clarified his long-term career direction, focusing on Marketing Analytics and Marketing Technology.

• Strengthened communication and interview readiness, improving how he presents his experience and skill set.

• Expanded his professional network, creating access to mentors and opportunities previously out of reach.

Reflection

Before working with Champion Objective, Chase didn’t always feel confident articulating his value. Through structured preparation, career conversations, and skill-building, he developed the clarity and confidence needed to navigate his early career.

Chase’s advice for others in a similar place:

“You don’t have to navigate everything on your own. Independence is important, but allowing yourself to seek help and work collaboratively with others can accelerate your progress and open doors you may not reach by yourself.” — Chase Epps-Johnson

Chase’s journey is exactly what Champion Objective aims to create — clarity, confidence, and real momentum for early-career professionals ready to grow.