Where Are They Now: Former Intern Evan Quesada
February 23, 2026
By Curley & Pynn
Evan Quesada joined Curley & Pynn in Fall 2019 as a student intern eager to learn, contribute and find his footing in a profession built on clarity, relationships and strong storytelling.
Today, Evan is a Paid Social Strategy and Activation Manager with Disney Experiences. In reflecting on his path, he points to lessons that have stayed with him across every role and industry, from leading with strategic thinking to embracing the “I don’t know” moments that spark real development. Below, Evan shares what the C&P meant to him, what he understands now that he couldn’t fully see at the time and the advice he’d offer any intern feeling uncertain about what comes next.
How would you describe the phase of your career you’re in right now, and what feels most meaningful about the work you’re doing?
In what has quickly become the favorite point of my career, I’m in a growth and exploration phase. I’m actively learning, professionally and personally, and building strong relationships while staying curious about long-term direction. I consistently have “imposter syndrome”, but that means I’m in the right place for career growth – surrounded by individuals with a wealth of knowledge that will push me beyond my fullest potential. The key is to remain confident and grounded in your core skills while being open to capitalize on new opportunities.
Something C&P taught me was that work that has external impact is rewarding and should always be priority with clients and partners, but we should never lose focus on having a meaningful impact on your colleagues and organization. I’ve always been passionate about the places I work at and people I work with, so projects that achieve shared success through collaboration and support mean the most to me.
What did the C&P internship change for you — in how you think, how you work or how you see yourself as a professional? How did this carry forward into other roles?
My internship instilled a work ethic in me with strategic thinking as its foundation. I was pushed to collaborate and apply fundamental skills to unfamiliar industries while considering multiple POVs during problem solving, all with the goal of effective storytelling which, no matter the field, is the endgame. I carry these lessons forward along with The 5 Steps to Professional Success, which aren’t a firm marketing tactic. These are tried and true keys to success and a mindset that I had a pleasure of learning and carrying with me into my success in future roles. Side note – I was the first recipient of the 5 and it’s an honor I still think about to this day! Being part of C&P, you quickly learn to appreciate and honor the reputation they’ve built in Central Florida as one of the most respected agencies. Being part of that story had always been a goal of mine during my time as a student at UCF and I can definitely attribute my professional success in part to my time developing as a young professional at C&P.
As someone with several years of experience now, what do you most appreciate about the internship experience that you couldn’t fully see or value at the time?
As a young professional looking to make an immediate impact, I was expecting to focus on and refine my existing skills which is a road to a stagnant career. I’ve come to learn that bringing value to your team and partners comes first with impact naturally following. Looking back, I learned from my internship experience that my value as an employee comes from being open to continuously developing new skills and growing into a well-rounded, versatile teammate who can contribute beyond a single role. Present day, I try to stay adaptable and focused on how my work fits into, and supports, the bigger picture and broader team and organizational goals. You need to be willingly vulnerable in the “I don’t know” as those are the truly valuable moments. Being comfortable and curious in unfamiliar circumstances has opened up opportunities for me thanks to my time under Dan and Kacie.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give a current intern or student who’s feeling unsure about their career direction right now?
While it’s hard to see now, that feeling of uncertainty is a key opportunity that I experienced as well. Remember that internship opportunities are designed for YOU. Be open, be curious, but most importantly, be honest with yourself and your leaders as this is the time to explore and trust that clarity comes from experience.
