Master’s Alumni Profile: Carson Crestohl G’24

Newhouse Master’s Program: Public Relations 
Current Position: Coordinator, Content & Community, Golf Canada

How did you land your current position? 

I spent a lot of time on cover letters and tailoring my resume to the position and maintained good relationships with past employers who recommended me for the role. Before the final interview, I was required to complete a mock content plan and utilized many of the skills I learned at Newhouse as well as my knowledge of Golf Canada to go above and beyond. 

What positions have you held previously? 

I have been a communications intern at the New York State Golf Association, an athletic communications intern at Syracuse Athletics, part of the Syracuse Hillel and an editorial and marketing associate at Matchplay Golf Marketing. 

What is an average day like for you on the job? 

I begin by responding to inquiries on social media, develop graphics and video content, develop content plans focused on upcoming tournaments, a season or off-season. 

How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position? 

My graphic design and video production classes were extremely helpful and allowed me to get confident using content creation tools prior to starting. From a campaign perspective, Newhouse provided me with the knowledge required to set and measure goals, as well as to utilize paid, earned, shared and owned (PESO) assets in developing content. 

What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important? 

Working the 2023 RBC Canadian Open and being offered the full-time position with Golf Canada. 

What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program? 

Going to graduate school in the United States with a major college sports program was always of appeal. I also always had an interest in working for the Syracuse Athletics department, which certainly seemed as if there were opportunities for students to get involved with ‘Cuse Athletics. In addition, Newhouse provided a sports media emphasis, which for someone who was coming from a sports background and hoping for a sports future, was a major point in its favor. In addition, the Newhouse reputation and alumni network was a significant consideration.  

Did Newhouse expose you to new aspects of your respective field?

Absolutely. At first, I was primarily interested in communications and marketing, but my program helped open my eyes to both the content and agency spaces. In my graduate internship with the New York State Golf Association, I worked with content in a professional setting for the first time and discovered a passion for it.  

Did you take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center?

Yes, I made an appointment when I arrived and made sure they were well aware of my interests. I also was able to access the alumni network, which was a very helpful feature for networking opportunities.  

What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to your field?

Do not discount the importance of leveraging your past and current opportunities to assist with the job search. Leaving a good impression is paramount in case a potential employer comes calling. Also, writing is very different in an academic versus a professional setting, especially in marketing communications. Trim out all the fat.  

What advice do you have for current or incoming students? 

Never underestimate the importance of building connections with professors. They are constantly getting requests from hiring managers regarding students they would recommend. The same goes for your peers, you never know when they might be in a position to hire or recommend you.