In the fast-paced world of marketing, staying ahead of new tools, platforms, and trends is essential. For LSU alumna Julianne Gouner, that meant returning to the (online) classroom to sharpen her skills and build confidence in her career. After earning her bachelor's degree in business marketing from LSU in 2017, Julianne stepped into roles that allowed her to grow professionally. But as digital marketing evolved, she saw the value of expanding her knowledge, particularly in areas like AI, marketing automation, and analytics.
Through the Digital Marketing Certificate program from LSU Online, Julianne was able to balance her full-time job with coursework, apply what she learned in real-time to her organization, and become a stronger voice in shaping its marketing strategy for the future.
Meet Julianne Gouner
What initially made you interested in the online Digital Marketing Certificate program?
I graduated from LSU in Business Marketing in 2017. Since then, I have not taken any additional courses to refresh my skills or learn about new industry trends such as recent AI developments. In my current position, I'm doing more marketing work than I have in previous roles, so it felt very important for me to continue my marketing education.
How did you balance life, work, and studies?
I was able to develop a weekly schedule to manage my day-to-day work along with the Digital Marketing assignments. It was very important to me that I not get behind on any of the lessons, so I wasn't scrambling to submit assignments.
How did the program prepare you for your career or career advancement?
I feel like I have a much more well-rounded overview of the topics covered in this course like AI, marketing automation, and analytics than I had before the course. I feel much more confident in my ability to create marketing plans and track their performance.
Can you share a specific example of how you applied what you learned?
After the lesson on SEO health, I spent a large amount of time studying my company's website performance and trying to improve our score and overall accessibility.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?
Continuing education is an investment in yourself. If you're like me and had some background knowledge in Digital Marketing from a previous degree and want to build on that foundation, this is the perfect program.
How has the program helped you achieve your career goals?
I feel more confident in my current position and have learned skills that have helped me stand out in my organization.
What skills or knowledge from the program have been most valuable in your job?
Learning key ways to utilize AI to increase productivity and assist with content creation has been a game changer in my day-to-day work.
Can you share a success story related to your career?
My organization has been going through a strategic planning process as we face some personnel changes in the future. A lot of this planning has been focused on how our marketing efforts can change and be more structured in the future. I was able to be a big part of that conversation and have a clearer picture of what I see our future marketing efforts looking like. Having the confidence to share my ideas and vision and being recognized within my organization throughout this process has made me very excited for my future with this company and excited to continue my own development.
Invest in Your Future with LSU Online
Julianne’s story highlights the power of continued learning in a quick-moving industry. By choosing the LSU Online Digital Marketing Certificate, she gained the confidence, skills, and knowledge to lead conversations in her organization and make an immediate impact.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your skills, explore new marketing tools, or strengthen your career opportunities, LSU Online offers access to flexible, career-focused programs that can help you grow.
Explore the Digital Marketing Certificate program today and take the next step toward advancing your career!