Bronco Spotlight: Erika Hejl
Category Analyst at The J.M. Smucker Company
I work with the sales teams and retailers to make category assortment and placement recommendations to ensure the shelf is easy to shop for consumers.
What is the most rewarding and the most challenging part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is to see retailers agree with and accept my recommendations. The most challenging part of my role is the amount of data that is available. Being able to narrow down the data to find what is most important can be difficult at times.
What activities, resources, or people helped you prepare for your career?
The Food Marketing Program helped prepare me for my career. The connections I was able to make with employers through RSO's and class projects was irreplaceable in ensuring I was prepared to enter the workforce. I also heavily utilized the Zhang Career Center during my time at WMU.
What advice do you have for students?
I have two pieces of advice - get involved and utilize your resources. WMU provides so many great opportunities for students and putting yourself out there can truly be the hardest part. However, once you do it becomes vital in preparing for your career and making the most out of college.