Introducing Another WINTern

Amongst a group of ambitious peers, I am proud to introduce myself as one of Women into Networking’s WINterns of the summer 2026 cohort. Beginning with my personal elevator pitch, my name is Haley Norton, a recent Grand Valley State University Advertising and Public Relations (GVSU) graduate, proudly earning my four-year degree at twenty years old this year.

I had my first taste of “a college environment” during my junior year of high school, when I began earning college credits at various Oakland Community College campuses. Within this environment, I quickly became an adaptable learner, walking into classes without even a driver’s license, where the average age was probably a decade older than mine, with professors who led classes in a way completely unfamiliar to me at the time. 

It was on this campus, scrolling TikTok between classes, that I was introduced to the field of digital media and public relations, which quickly blossomed from an idea into a passion, ultimately guiding the path I chose.

My Kind of Balance

The person I get to be outside of a professional or academic setting maintains the much-needed, sometimes few-and-far-between balance in my days. More often than not, you’ll find me reading, getting updated on my podcasts, or, if I am lucky and haven’t used my allotted Spotify hours, enjoying an audiobook. As a young kid, I was quick to fall in love with reading, which grew into consuming as much media as I could. I have always been an opinionated individual, but when it comes to pop culture references, news, and preferences, I am loud and proud about my favorites. 

• What’s on my playlists?- I am a true pop girlie through and through, so even while I keep my taste diverse, there is a persistent pattern throughout my playlists. Olivia Rodrigo has been on repeat since her recent album release, as well as everyone's new favorite pop siblings, Malcolm Todd and Audrey Hobert. Role Model, Phoebe Bridgers, and Ariana Grande definitely make their appearances, and I have to take a moment to applaud the many tours of 2026. 

• What’s on my bookshelf?- Recently, I have been challenging myself to pick up books I have no preconceived notion of. Going thrifting is always a joy, but now trying to find hidden gems within overcrowded shelves makes the satisfaction of finishing a book just that much better. For me, you can never go wrong with a classic rom-com. I want all the cliches, all the cringiness. This genre will never get old for me. 

• What am I listening to?- I am a big advocate for background noise, and because of this, I have found a love for Spotify audiobooks and podcasts. Generally, my podcasts focus on pop culture and are hosted by social media influencers I have come to appreciate. The Comment Section by Drew Afualo, Therapuss by Jake Shane, and Brand Safe and Not Loveline with Tana Mongeau and Trisha Paytas are all often played daily. Each one offers a healthy mix of entertainment, cultural commentary, and varying perspectives that challenge me to think differently.  My audiobooks consist of self-help books, biographies, and sociological breakdowns. Audiobooks keep me sane. I could listen to two a week if I didn’t have to ration. 

Post-Grad Scaries 

While no champagne could be toasted at my senior ceremony, as I still have until November to be a legal drinking adult, I drank my sparkling juice with a grin. I have heard horror stories of the post-grad scaries, which can be a cute play on words if you try hard enough to rationalize it. But I have simply chosen to ignore it. 

My few weeks of post-grad, while still undergoing some of the largest transitions of my life, have been nothing but gratifying. The opportunity to independently explore my experience and education in the field I have grown to love so much, without the looming 11:59 PM deadline, still feels fresh. The amount of time I have on my hands, short-term and far into my future, can be undeniably overwhelming, but it has motivated me more than I thought possible. 

Entering my first summer of “the real world,” as my extended family tells me, I feel so blessed and welcomed by the WIN community. Having the opportunity to share a personal perspective and impact women who hold seats across many professional fields is a privilege, and one that I am excited to explore. 

I would be happy to stay connected! I am quite the social media user, so you can find me on Instagram or LinkedIn. I look forward to sharing more and entering such a supportive environment.