I am going to a school that doesn’t actually have an advertising program. Will hard work and talent be enough to overcome this disadvantage? I’ve invested a lot in my education already but it would cost a lot more to transfer. Would it be worth it or should I just worry about developing a strong portfolio and succeeding in spite …
Do I even need ad school, or can I get in with just my winning ideas?
EducationAnswered by Jancy on July 16, 2012
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How can I move from social media to copywriting?
Career, CopywritingAnswered by Jancy on July 13, 2012
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Dear Jancy,
I graduated last year with a business degree (finance) and a minor in English. I’ve started working in social media marketing for a company and I am wondering what the most sensible next step is to transition into a copywriter or just simply get my foot into the ad agency door? I cannot at this point in time say …

I wanna write taglines!
Career, CopywritingAnswered by Jancy on July 12, 2012
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Dear Jancy,
I am fascinated by the power of a great tagline (maybe because there are so few). I am contemplating a freelance career focused exclusively on writing taglines. Is that a naive dream?
Also: Could you recommend a few names (preferably in Toronto) who might be willing to look at 5-10 samples and tell me if I have the talent to …
My partner and I aren’t working out… but I’m the one who recommended him. HELP!
PartnersAnswered by Jancy on July 11, 2012
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Hey Jancy,
First off, love the site! So here’s my dilemma. I work at this great mid sized shop. The atmosphere is great, the people are awesome to work with. I was there for about 10 months when my ECD asked that I recommend a copywriter intern. At the time, I only knew one copywriter from an adschool class before mine …

Copywriting vs. Brand Management: which will allow me the most sustained career?
Career, EducationAnswered by Jancy on July 10, 2012
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Dear Jancy,
I am currently looking into ad schools, specifically VCU, MAS, and Texas creative. I am not doubting the need to go to ad school simply because I have no background in design or communications at all (a bachelors of science in biology actually).
I’ve graduated for almost two years now and have been unemployed for most of it so I …

Which are the best award shows for students to enter?
Ads, CreativityAnswered by Jancy on July 9, 2012
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Hi Jancy,
I’m currently an advertising student in Colombia. i would like to know what are some great advertising awards from around the world for students that can get you noticed in the industry.
Thank you very much.
P.S. i loved your book Pick Me, i think it is one of the most informative books for students and it has really helped me.
These …
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About Jancy
'Jancy' is Janet Kestin and Nancy Vonk, Co-Founders of Swim, a unique “creative leadership training lab for advertising creatives and marketers.” Prior to Swim, Jancy was globally renowned as the Co-Chief Creative Officers of Ogilvy & Mather Toronto, a position they held for thirteen of the twenty years they were a creative duo at the agency. Over the years they've racked up Cannes Lions, Clios, One Show pencils and CA credits, and have lead their shop to two Cannes Lions Grand Prix and a Grand Clio. They've judged CA, Cannes, D&AD, the One Show, the Clios and other prestigious award shows. Creativity named them two of the top 50 creative people of 2008. Known for their outspoken, no-bullshit style and a passion for mentoring juniors, they're ready to give you advice if you're ready to take it.





