Senior studying Communications & Journalism at UW–Eau Claire. I build experiences people remember and strategies that actually move people. Let me show you.
I’m AJ Liska-Verdu — a senior at UW–Eau Claire with a passion for creating experiences that actually mean something. I grew up in Hartland, Wisconsin, and somewhere between my love for sports, travel, and a good brand story, I found my way into hospitality and marketing.
I’m equally comfortable running food and beverage operations on a packed game day and sitting down to map out a brand strategy from scratch. I work hard, care about the details, and I’m always chasing the next opportunity to grow.
Participated in a 10-day service immersion through UW–Eau Claire and Community Collaborations International. Helped families rebuild homes, supported youth programs, and restored the local environment in Puerto Rico.
Helped organize a school-wide fundraiser at University Lake School in honor of Serge Zevlever, a Ukrainian translator shot during the Russian invasion while helping civilians in Kyiv. Raised over $8,000 for World Central Kitchen. Covered by Fox6 News.
Three projects that show how I think. Part research, part strategy, fully original.
Built from the ground up to give Gyro King’s team clear expectations, consistent standards, and a culture worth showing up for. The process involved policy writing, tone-matching, and turning brand personality into something employees would actually read.
A collaborative SME guide explaining mobile marketing from the ground up — how it works, how to build a strategy, and how to measure it.
A strategic public health campaign promoting protective behavioral strategies to college students — realistic harm reduction over abstinence messaging.
Community Collaborations International • 10 Days • Full Immersion
In partnership with Community Collaborations International, UW–Eau Claire sent a group of students to Puerto Rico for a 10-day full immersion service experience. All transportation, lodging, food, and program fees were covered, and every day was spent doing real, hands-on work alongside local community members.
Our group focused on home renovation and restoration for families still recovering from hurricane damage, environmental research and repair, youth assistance, and community building. It wasn’t a typical service trip — we were embedded in the community, doing the kind of work that actually moves the needle, and leaving with a much clearer picture of what service and leadership look like outside of a classroom.
I’m actively seeking full-time opportunities in hospitality, brand management, and experiential marketing. If you think we’d work well together — reach out.