Marketing, Sales, and Success: Jayden Ford’s High-Impact Journey at NC State
For Jayden Ford, a junior at NC State, the journey through marketing and sales is so much more than just résumé building—it’s an expedition into leadership, creativity, and transformation. As the Vice President of Communications for the American Marketing Association (AMA) at NC State, and President of the Sales Club, Ford is not only enhancing her digital strategy skills but also significantly amplifying her organization’s online impact.
Elevating the AMA at NC State
When Jayden stepped into the role of VP of Communications for the NC State AMA in January 2025, she joined a powerhouse chapter ranked #7 out of 350 globally. Her mission? To boost visibility and member engagement through compelling content and a stellar digital presence.
“Since stepping into this role, my goal has been to create content that truly reflects who we are as a chapter and connects with people," states Ford.
And she’s certainly delivering! Her strategic approach has led to a staggering 54.9% growth in social media reach, increasing the chapter’s engagement metrics significantly.
- Social Media Reach: Grew to 6,400
- Content Interactions: Doubled to 1,700
- Total Followers: Surpassed 1,000 with 236 new additions
- Link Clicks: Increased by 62.3%
Ford is not just focused on numbers; she aims for a digital presence that is both impactful and engaging. This dedication is evident as she prepares to represent her chapter at the AMA International Collegiate Conference in New Orleans, where she will connect with top marketing students and industry leaders.
A Sales Trailblazer
Outside of the AMA, Ford is carving her niche as a prominent figure in sales competitions. Co-founding and leading the NC State Sales Club, she has created a hub for students to hone their skills through interactive workshops, guest speakers, and competitive events.
In February 2025, she showcased her talents at the Pirate Sales Challenge at East Carolina University and was recognized as a semifinalist at the Hendrick Automotive Sales Competition at UNC Wilmington. These competitions immerse participants in real-world B2B sales scenarios, where they craft compelling pitches and deliver under pressure.
“I’ve always been drawn to competitive environments where there’s a clear goal to work toward,” Ford explains, emphasizing the adrenaline and focus that sales competitions require.
Lessons in Leadership
Leading student organizations has been a masterclass in management for Ford. She’s learned that effective leadership requires not just vision but also communication, boundaries, and follow-through.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is how to lead a team, especially when your team includes friends,” she reflects, emphasizing the complexities of combining personal relationships with professional responsibilities.
Mentorship Matters: A Connection That Counts
One of the most pivotal relationships Ford has forged is with Dr. Pieter Verhallen, an Assistant Teaching Professor of Marketing. What began as a casual conversation about graduate school has blossomed into a mentorship that has profoundly influenced her trajectory.
“Dr. Verhallen’s support has meant more than I can put into words,” Ford shares, recognizing the impact of his encouragement and mentorship on her confidence and growth.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
With her sights set on graduate school and beyond, Ford’s journey has solidified her ambition in business strategy and leadership. She envisions expanding the opportunities offered through the Sales Club by attending national conferences, providing members with avenues to network with industry leaders and explore future careers in business.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Ford’s journey, rich with challenges and achievements, has valuable lessons for other students considering leadership roles or competitions:
“Lean into it, even if you don’t feel totally ready. Most of the growth comes from figuring things out as you go. You’ll have wins, you’ll mess up, and you’ll learn fast. Do your best – it’s all you can do.”
Conclusion: Jayden Ford’s Lasting Impact
Through her unwavering determination and passion for excellence, Ford is leaving a remarkable imprint on NC State. She exemplifies how hands-on experience, combined with a growth mindset, can create pathways to success in the fast-paced world of marketing and sales. As she continues to evolve and influence her peers and community, one thing is clear: the future is bright for Jayden Ford.
By cultivating leadership, championing creative strategies, and embracing competition, Ford is not just preparing for her future—she’s redefining what it means to truly succeed in the marketing landscape.
