Can you tell us a little about yourself and your current role as a Marketing Specialist?
I am originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and stayed in Morgantown after I graduated from the Reed College of Media with a Journalism degree in 2019. I pursued my dreams of being an on-air sports personality at WBOY in Clarksburg, WV for three years before making a career pivot to the marketing field. I learned the craft at InnerAction Media, a local marketing and video production agency before starting my current position as a marketing specialist at Vandalia Health. In my current role, I handle media distribution and budget tracking as well as a lot of strategic campaign build and execution. The healthcare field always keeps you on your toes, and it is rewarding to be able to tell our patients' stories and educate the communities we serve about the services we provide.
What inspired you to pursue a master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications, and what led you to choose West Virginia University?
I have always been passionate about lifelong learning. I felt it was the right time to pursue a master's degree and I know several people who have graduated from the IMC program and highly recommended it. The best thing about working full-time while pursuing an IMC degree is that I can use what I am learning in real time. I chose WVU because I live here in Morgantown and can pop over to campus if needed and I am familiar with the tools and systems that WVU uses so I knew it would be a seamless transition back to being a student. Also- WVU is the best. Let's Go!
What are your career goals, and how do you see the IMC program helping you reach them?
My long-term goal is to become a Chief Marketing Officer. I eventually would love to lead an entire team of passionate creatives and marketing professionals. I am early on in the coursework for the IMC program, but I am already learning valuable information and most importantly, how to apply it to what I am doing in my career now. The professors and coursework in the WVU IMC program set you up for success and offer to help beyond questions about class.
How do you apply what you’re learning in the IMC program to your work?
As I mentioned, working full time in a marketing position while completing the IMC program is super ideal because I can apply what I am learning directly to my current work. I have to shout out Professor Nathan Pieratt - if you have the chance to take one of his classes, don't hesitate. I am currently taking Advanced Creative Concepts, and the coursework is not only extremely relevant, but he gives incredibly detailed and helpful feedback that will not only improve your work for the course, but your retention of the lessons that you can apply directly in your career. It is clear how much time he puts into his lessons and feedback.
What’s one marketing tool or platform you can’t live without?
CANVA! I love Canva. You can truly use the tool for anything, and my favorite part about it is that it is user-friendly and fast (perfect for on the fly work!)
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the Integrated Marketing Communications program?
If you are thinking about pursuing an IMC degree, reach out and ask about it! I had been thinking about it for a couple years and finally jumped on a call with an advisor to chat about the program and I was sold. Take the first step and ask for more information about the program. Also - you CAN go through the program while working full time. Don't let that stop you from applying to the program!
Is there a quote, mentor, or defining moment that has guided your career path?
I am a big quote person, my desk is filled with inspirational quotes, but one that has stuck with me ever since the Philadelphia Eagles lost the Super Bowl in 2023, quarterback Jalen Hurts said, "You either win or you learn." This is important because you are never failing if you're learning. Celebrate the big and small wins but learn from your mistakes and they'll never actually be considered a failure.
Share a fun fact about yourself
I am a huge Philadelphia sports fan. Another fun fact is that I am completing my master's degree while working full time, being a full time board member of the West Virginia Public Theatre and serving as the board's events chair, a full-time dog mom and I am planning a wedding! So really, you're never too busy to pursue your dreams of higher education!