Hi, I’m Lily! I’m currently studying SEO Tools & Analytics at UC San Diego (UCSD), where I’m gaining valuable hands-on experience in the world of search engine optimization and digital analytics. This course has been eye-opening for me, not only in teaching theory but also in letting me apply what I learn directly to a practice website where I can test strategies, track performance, and measure results.
One of the most exciting aspects of this journey has been working with the essential tools that power today’s digital marketing strategies. On the practice website, I’ve been:
- Installing Google Tag Manager (GTM) to streamline tracking and ensure clean, organized data collection.
- Configuring Google Search Console (GSC) to monitor site visibility, index coverage, and keyword performance.
- Setting up Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to understand how users interact with content and how traffic flows through the site.
- Building dashboards in Looker Studio to visualize key metrics in ways that are clear and actionable.
These tools aren’t just technical requirements—they are powerful storytelling devices. I’ve learned that data can reveal so much about audience behavior: where visitors come from, what keeps them engaged, and where improvements can be made. By combining analytics with creativity, I can design strategies that improve visibility, enhance user experience, and drive business growth.
Looking ahead, my goal is to bring these skills into a career in digital marketing and SEO. I want to help brands make smarter, data-informed decisions by uncovering the insights hidden in their analytics. Whether that means identifying untapped keyword opportunities, improving site performance, or translating complex reports into clear business takeaways, I’m eager to add value.
Working on the practice website has been the perfect launchpad for this journey, giving me real-world experience that will directly carry over into future projects. I’m excited to continue exploring how SEO, analytics, and storytelling come together to create meaningful digital marketing strategies.