Elena Sieverding

“My classes have prepared me for my dream career by teaching me tangible business skills, but also to stay true to myself.”

-Elena Sieverding

Elena Sieverding plans to stay in the area after graduation and find work as a venue coordinator. In her free time, Elena enjoys taking pictures and spending quality time with her friends.

Elena Sieverding elevates career in event management through photography

Elena Sieverding first discovered her interest for event management in high school. She led other students in designing the theme for her junior year prom and realized how much she enjoyed working with venues, especially through their design.

“I fell in love with designing events and doing hands-on coordination to make an event run smoothly,” Elena said. 

Since coming to Iowa State University, Elena has completed two internships that have further developed her skills. During summer 2017, she worked as an intern for the Johnson County Fair, where she oversaw kids’ play areas and photographed events throughout the fair season. Last summer, Elena interned with White Ivy Events, a wedding planner in Iowa City. 

“My responsibilities [at White Ivy Events] included client meetings, calling vendors, day-of coordination, and designing event concepts,” she said.

 Through these internships, Elena gained hands-on experience in events and discovered how enthusiastic she is about organizing and preparing venues. She plans to work as a venue coordinator after graduation.

Elena is an avid photographer. She bought her first camera in high school, and her talents as a photographer have flourished in college. She conducts photo shoots for engagements and weddings, tying into her aspirations of becoming a wedding venue coordinator. 

Elena has found that creativity is a highly sought-after skill in event management. She plans to apply her unique creativity to her future career. 

“Creativity is a huge focus within event management, since that is what sets you apart from others,” Elena said. “It’s been very applicable to my photography business since it is another creative career path where I have to have my own brand to be successful.”

Through her classes and internships, Elena has developed the skills and confidence she needs to be successful, all while cultivating her individuality.

“My classes have prepared me for my dream career by teaching me tangible business skills, but also to stay true to myself. Event coordinators and managers are people who others are always going to look to in times of confusion and chaos, so you have to be confident with the decisions you make,” she said.