A student who wanted a summer internship at Tarte Cosmetics in New York City turned a creative social media post into a career breakthrough. The experience began when they saw a video from the company’s founder, Maureen Kelly, encouraging college students to apply for the program. Though they had no industry connections, they decided to use their background in social media content to stand out.
At the time, they were a sophomore at Chapman University, double majoring in economics and public relations. Their goal was to treat the internship as a summer distraction before pursuing a more traditional business or finance career. But with thousands of applicants and no obvious path to an interview, they faced long odds. Coming from Nebraska and attending school in Southern California, they also had no intention of returning home for the summer.
Why a TikTok Beat a Traditional Resume
Instead of relying on a standard resume, they created an “Elle Woods-style” video inspired by the Legally Blonde admissions scene. The video showcased their passion for the brand and their ability to market themselves—qualities they believed would resonate with Tarte’s social media team. Though it felt risky, they posted it in January 2024.
Within days, Kelly herself commented on the post: “I 👀 u! OBSESSED.” Tarte’s HR team followed up with an email expressing interest and scheduling an interview. The result: a paid internship on the company’s social media team.
Read Also: Scaramucci Advises Ex-Press Secretary After Five-Day Tenure
A Different Kind of Networking
By the following winter, Tarte extended an offer to return for the summer of 2025. When graduation approached, they received a full-time position without reapplying. The internship, initially seen as a one-time opportunity, became the foundation of a career blending comedy, public relations, and storytelling.
How Luck and Strategy Combined
The internship and subsequent job offer highlight how unconventional methods can open doors in competitive industries. While strategy played a role, crafting a video that aligned with Tarte’s brand, the outcome also depended on timing and opportunity. Kelly’s direct engagement with the post was a critical factor.
Personal Reflection on Risk-Taking and Career Opportunities
Initially, the decision to apply for the internship felt out of place after years of focusing on beauty and comedy content. The applicant had shifted toward a more conventional career path in college, leaving behind their previous online presence. However, the founder’s video reignited their interest in the role, prompting them to reconsider how they presented themselves.
