A lifelong native of the Philadelphia area, Madeline Bell completed her Bachelor of Music History at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music in Music History and Dance and her Master of Science in Arts Administration at Drexel University. Madeline recently returned to Boyer College as its assistant director of marketing and communications, where she manages the college’s social media and web presence, digital and print communications, and recital schedule. Prior to Boyer, Madeline held positions in marketing at Penn Live Arts (formerly the Annenberg Center) and the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, and in production and programming at West Chester University and the Kennett Symphony. Outside of work, Madeline enjoys playing video games, snuggling with her dog Cade, and cooking with her husband.

We asked Madeline a few questions about her time at Drexel and how it's been a part of her career.

What is something that you'd like to share with the AAML network?

'Don't be afraid to say hello and get to know others in the field. We're all taught the value of networking from the beginning of our careers, but I've been surprised time and time again how simply saying hello and introducing myself to someone has led to meaningful conversation and a forever connection - and sometimes even friendship! Always, always, always say hello to people so you can reconnect with them later.'

Is there a relationship from Drexel that stuck with you? (Are you still friendly with your cohort or a mentor? Did you ever get a job from the Drexel AAML network?)

I am SO grateful for the guidance I received from former online program director Dr. Jean Brody, who was also my thesis advisor. There was a point while I was working on my thesis when I felt so discouraged by the results of my research that I wanted to start over completely with a new topic. Dr. Brody got me back on track, reminding me that even though my results were unexciting or inconclusive, the work that I did still held value. It was all a part of the research process and the fact that it didn't go as expected was a component of it too. It was a great lesson on perspective that I've carried with me ever since.