SPS Student Spotlight: Meet Zoe Kurtz, Storyteller and Strategist

In the world of educational technology, Zoe found the place where she thrives: at the intersection of education, storytelling, and innovation. 

Zoe earned her Strategic Communications degree from Elon University in 2022 and began her career in the ed-tech space. 

“Over time, I’ve specialized in creating marketing and sales strategies that help education organizations connect with schools, families, and students in meaningful ways,” Zoe said. “Each step has reinforced not only how much I love this work, but also the incredible potential of digital marketing to expand access to learning opportunities.” 

It’s this passion that led Zoe to pursue a Master of Digital Marketing at Wake Forest School of Professional Studies. 

“I wanted to build on my expertise, strengthen my strategy, and continue developing as a leader in the field,” she explained. “Wake Forest is the place to do that.” 

Originally from North Carolina, Zoe now calls Tampa, Florida home where she serves as the Marketing and Sales Enablement Manager at ABStudios, a startup focused on K-12 enrichment programs. In this role, she brings together data-driven insights, storytelling, and high-impact campaigns to drive growth and engagement. 

Zoe shared with us more about her career journey, why she chose Wake Forest SPS, and how she’s making the most of her time as a student. 

Wake Forest SPS (SPS): Why did you choose the Wake Forest SPS program?

Zoe Kurtz (ZK): I grew up just down the road from Wake Forest in Winston-Salem, so I’ve always known how strong the school’s reputation is. When I started thinking about going back to school, Wake immediately stood out. I knew the program would push me, help me grow, and actually make a difference in my career.

After looking at the curriculum, I realized it would build on what I learned in undergrad and dive deeper into areas like digital strategy, AI, consumer analytics, and strategic leadership, while also staying on top of the emerging tools and trends that are shaping the future of marketing. I was looking for a program that was reputable, flexible enough to balance with full-time work, and remote-friendly. The SPS program checked every box. 

SPS: What’s been a specific project or assignment you’re most proud of? 

ZK: I’m especially proud of earning my Google Analytics certification as part of a final assignment for class. It’s a great example of how the coursework directly translates into my career. I was able to take what I learned, apply it immediately at work, and see the results in real time. Another highlight was developing a full social media strategy for a brand. I chose to use my own organization, which meant I could build a campaign that wasn’t just theoretical but directly actionable.

Both projects reinforced how valuable it is to be in a program where the work we do in class translates directly into results in our careers.

SPS: What’s been your favorite part of the program?

ZK: It’s hard to pick just one! One of the highlights has definitely been serving as a Student Ambassador. I’ve loved getting to create videos and content about the program and share what the experience is really like. It’s also helped me connect with so many other students, which has made the remote experience feel personal and community-driven.

Another meaningful moment was when I was home in Winston-Salem and had the chance to meet up with my professor, Ged King, and my classmate Thomas Conrad. We spent the afternoon working together on Wake Forest’s campus and grabbed lunch at the cafeteria, taking the opportunity to catch-up in person. It was really special to come home and meet classmates and professors in person because it reminded me how strong this community is, even from a distance.

SPS: How has your perspective on your industry or career path evolved since starting the program?

ZK: AI is rewriting the playbook for marketing, leadership, and impact. The question has shifted from “How do we use technology?” to “How do we partner with it to push ideas further, faster, and smarter?”

And because of that we truly are living through a generational shift in how technology shapes the way we work, create, and make decisions. Being at the forefront of that change is exciting because it means I get to help shape what comes next. This program has challenged me to think about how digital tools, data, and storytelling converge, and how marketers can step up to lead the future.

SPS: How do you balance the program with work and life responsibilities?

ZK: Balancing work, life, and school definitely takes some intention, but the program has made it manageable. The workload is designed with working professionals in mind, where everything feels relevant and applicable to what I’m doing in my career. 

I’ve found a rhythm that works where mornings are usually my time to reset with a run, coffee, and a little quiet before the day starts, and evenings are when I focus on school. The professors have also been incredible! They are always responsive, encouraging, and flexible. They truly want us to succeed and it shows, which makes a big difference when you’re balancing a lot at once.

SPS: What advice would you give to a working professional considering a graduate program like yours?

ZK: Don’t wait until you feel 100% “ready.” The program is designed for working professionals, so you’ll learn as you go and be able to apply new skills immediately. Some weeks are busier than others, but it’s been such a positive experience where I feel like I’m growing every day.

Connect with Zoe on LinkedIn. Learn more about the Master of Digital Marketing.