"The program has surpassed my expectations. I feel as if I have learned a couple years worth of knowledge in such a short amount of time. The amount of exposure to successful senior people in the industry has also been inspirational and encouraging. The perks of the program, such as going to the DMA conference and having conversations with direct marketing CEOs, have been very atypical for a job fresh out of college. This program will give me a competitive advantage in my future career."

Nicole double majored in Marketing and International Business at the Villanova School of Business, Villanova University. She was involved in the Blue Key Society and the Advertising Society. Her previous marketing internships include Merion Publications in PA and Dolce&Gabbana in NYC.

"The DMLDP is a one of a kind program that prepares recent graduates for the challenging and exciting world of Direct Marketing. In a short time, you are exposed to diverse experiences that give you the skills necessary to excel in any marketing position. More importantly, the program gives you insight into what really motivates you. The ability to succinctly tell a prospective employer what drives you to get up in the morning is invaluable."

Francisco Alberini, a graduate of the NYU Stern School of Business, double majored in Marketing and International Business. He held internships in retail, publishing and finance prior to joining the DMLDP. In his spare time, Francisco enjoys exploring the endless culinary choices in New York City and cycling around central park.

"It hasn't even been a full year yet and, as a DMLDP Associate, I've already worked on marketing campaigns, traveled to London to coordinate research, helped plan events and learned about web analytics. This program has not only taught me important individual skills but has also given me a valuable sense of context that you can't get from a normal entry-level position."

Kelly graduated from the University of Virginia with degrees in English and Spanish. Before the DMLDP, she completed a publishing internship at LexisNexis in Charlottesville, VA and started her own internet business.

"I think it can be very difficult for recent graduates to find a place where they can make a positive impact sooner than later. To me, the greatest benefit of the DMLDP is that we don't have to wait five to ten years to make a difference in this industry. We are encouraged to share our thoughts on a daily basis and to work hard knowing that our efforts will make an immediate and important impact on the sponsor companies."

Andrea graduated from Columbia University with a bachelor of arts in American Studies. While in school, she was a goalkeeper for Columbia's Division I field hockey team and she studied abroad for a year at King's College London. Andrea interned at Mark Haefeli Productions, Orchard Films and Columbia University Sports Information and Media Relations Department.