Advertising, Media and PR Success

30 January 2009 Advertising, Media and PR Success

Did you ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at ABC-TV, Disney Productions or the Wall Street Journal? Thats exactly what more than 30 HWS students discovered during winter break when they visited New York City for a two-day event focused on careers in public relations, advertising and the media.

During their visit, students were given an inside look at several major employers thanks to alums, parents and friends of the Colleges who offered tours, led discussions and hosted networking events, including:

  • Bloomberg News, Reporter Erickson Blakney 87;
  • The Walt Disney Company (encompassing ABC-TV, Disney Productions and the ESPN Network), Senior Vice President Gary Montanus 73, Director Adam Polcek 92, Account Executive Joe Maggio 88, Assistant Director of Polling Peyton Craighill 94 and Production Manager and Executive John Baxley 84;
  • The Wall Street Journal, advertising and sales John Ready 75 and Geoff Madden 95.
  • InterPublic Group (including Initiative and Universal McCann, and Magna Global Trading companies), President and CEO Brian McMahon P10, Group Media Director Dan Morrison P07, Media Analyst Nazia Ahmad-Grullon 07 and Associate Buyer for National Broadcast Patricia Mears 08;
  • Discovery Communications, Jeff Pelligrini;
  • M Booth & Associates, Inc., Account Manager Alex Della Rocca 01.

Students were able to go in and meet the people who are making things happen, said CSO Employer Relations Director Joe Ambrosetti, coordinator of the New York City events. This was a validating event where students were able to see multiple examples of a liberal arts education at work.

Beyond giving us the opportunity to make connections, it was great to hear what advice alums had about the current economic climate and job market as well as ways to market ourselves to potential employers, said senior Sarah Borup.

Each day was such an eye opener, and Im so happy that I was able to have this opportunity as a first year, said Laura Butera 12. There is so much to explore and think about. I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity.

Christine Ambramo 12 agreed. Im really glad I got to experience the media culture this early on. I learned a lot and will definitely look into internships next summer because of the event.