What are you up to right now?
Currently, I'm a Solutions Consultant for Conviva. When I joined in July of 2018, we were a startup called Delmondo, a cross-platform social video analytics software providing authenticated viewership and engagement data across all social platforms. In November, we went through the acquisition and became part of Conviva integrating our social measurement into the larger OTT Video sphere. I work across clients like Fox Sports, ESPN, Turner Sports, ABC News, NASCAR and University of Alabama measuring social data and providing consultative advice for strategy.
What is it like being in “the biz” as a pro?
Being in "the biz" isn't quite what I had expected as a Drexel Freshman. Having been an EAM student with a sports concentration, I first thought I'd go work for an agency like Wasserman or CAA. Then I shifted to thinking I might go work for a team like the Arizona Cardinals or Phillies or a league like NFL or MLB. After graduation I went to work with Prodigy Sports in executive search and learned about so many types of jobs and companies that existed in the larger sports and entertainment world. Now working in the world of social and streaming video with some of the largest sports media brands, I've found a passion and niche that I love. I couldn't dream of a cooler job than a Monday morning spent working on a project for Cirque du Soleil and Thursday spent in Atlanta talking to the Turner Sports team about March Madness. There are plenty of days that start before 9am and end way after 5pm, but the work itself is so fun that I hardly ever look at the clock waiting for the day to be over.
How did EAM help you get here?
EAM & Drexel as a whole sets a tone of career development over coursework. I never felt like a professor would limit my ability to go and work an event and would work with me to complete the necessary coursework. Additionally, the speakers EAM brought in helped to open doors and create relationships. Having been in the 'real world' for a few years, I've also found that the projects, presentations and topics covered in classes closely mirror some of the real world work I've done. Having professors talk about industry trade publications as day to day reading and not shying away from new areas like esports had a big impact. I still remember sitting in a TV Research & Sales course learning about Cynopsis and to this day have it delivered to my inbox.
What TV shows are you watching these days?
My boyfriend and I have been into Madam Secretary, Whiskey Cavalier and rewatching Scrubs. Having just visited University of Alabama for work, I'm pretty excited for the upcoming season of Bachelorette and since I work from home, you can usually find Bravo or E! on in the background.
Any advice for current EAM students?
When people visit campus, take advantage of those opportunities to make a connection and come prepared with a more detailed question. Additionally, be open to different classes as they just might open your eyes to a new area of the industry. Additionally, take internships and co-ops that might not be the traditional ones. If it gives you more access, do it. The biggest mistake I made was initially thinking of only the major companies and major jobs. There are so many other companies that work in tandem with the 'big names' and sometimes being on the side of a partner gives you more access in the early parts of your career. Lastly, volunteer whenever you can and go the extra step to stand out. These little one-off volunteer opportunities can lead to introductions for full time internships or jobs.