Master’s Alumni Profile: Alex Hosilyk G’24
Newhouse Master’s Program: Public Relations
Current Position: Assistant Account Executive, Corporate Technology, Edelman Smithfield
How did you land your current position and what positions did you hold before it?
I attended the public relations graduate program benchmark trip and networked with some of the speakers at the Edelman New York office. It was through those connections that I was able to have my resume considered.
Before that, I was a human resources communications and development intern at Intel Corporation. During my time at Newhouse, I served as the graduate assistant to the senior associate dean in the Office of Research and Creative Activity, where I produced the Newhouse Impact Podcast and ran social media. I was also a member of Hill Communications.
What is an average day like for you on the job?
No day is ever the same as an assistant account executive, or in public relations! Some of my daily tasks include monitoring the news for client or competitor coverage, drafting pitches, performing competitor audits, preparing briefing documents for C-Suite executives or reporting on large announcements including product launches and quarterly earnings.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
There’s one thing Newhouse students take for granted: research! Believe it or not, half the job in public relations is research. Your clients expect you to understand not just their business, but the industry as a whole! A huge part of my job is researching media targets and competitor media strategies.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
Newhouse helped me understand the foundation of public relations that I needed to enter the field, including how to write professionally and persuasively.
What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important?
My role at Edelman has helped me understand the broader field of PR and the importance of relationship-building.
What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program?
The networking opportunities and academic experiences that the PR program offers are what brought me to Newhouse, and ultimately how I landed my job at Edelman. My advice to students is to take advantage of all the different events, trips, classes and opportunities Newhouse has to offer.
What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to navigating Newhouse and post-grad?
Public relations is a fast-moving industry and there are many different paths. It is important to consider what you’re interested in when applying for a job. Are you interested in media relations? Social media? Influencer? Crisis? Something I did not realize before entering my field was how much your client’s industry can impact the work you do, which is something else to consider. Do you want to write about technology? Brands? Sports? Whatever you decide, make sure it is something you want to learn and write about!
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Do not be afraid to try something new. Anything is possible at Newhouse! Take advantage of all the opportunities the school has to offer, because you never know what you might learn or who you’ll meet, and where that may lead you.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Emma Grace ReVille G’24
Newhouse Master’s Program: Public Relations
Current Position: Associate Director of Athletic Communications, University of Louisiana-Monroe
How did you land your current position and what positions did you hold before it?
The College Sports Communicators website posted this job, and I interviewed! Before that, I was a communications intern for Syracuse Athletic Communications and a research assistant for Professor Brad Horn.
What is an average day like for you on the job?
I spend the morning updating game notes, media guides and the rosters (especially if there was a game the night before). Usually, I am in contact with various coaches and players regarding interviews and other media opportunities. In the afternoon, I am developing new media guides for sports that are not in season and emailing the media, pitching opportunities with them. I also work with our graphic designer and social coordinator to come up with content on our teams’ various social media accounts.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
I would not be able to write as many press releases as I do now if not for Newhouse. Learning AP Style writing and learning Adobe Creative Suite skills, especially InDesign, were crucial to the job I have now. In a less tangible sense, connecting with the media and developing connections with them has been very important, as well as thinking critically in a public relations lens. I have to balance the needs of the team with the needs of the media and find a happy medium between the two.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
I knew practically nothing about public relations when I came to Newhouse, so everything I know now about public relations as a career, a skill and an industry came from Newhouse. I learned how we must essentially learn to be renaissance women (or men) and learn skills in multiple categories to effectively work as a PR professional.
What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important?
Some of the most important moments in my career came from my time at Newhouse. I got the opportunity to work at the Empire State Winter Games writing press releases and that solidified what I wanted to do this full-time. If not for that opportunity, I would not have found out how much I love writing.
What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program?
The fact that Newhouse has a sports emphasis was crucial to my decision. Newhouse’s reputation speaks for itself, but the sports emphasis allowed me to learn public relations in a general sense, but then learn how to apply it to the industry I want to work in. The one-year length of the program was also the one of the top perks to me, as I was looking to enter the workforce as soon as possible.
Did you take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center?
The Career Development Center jumpstarted my networking by introducing me to the Newhouse Network and showing me how crucial networking can be. While the CDC did not assist in me finding the job I am at now, I remain in touch with Newhouse alumni who I found due to the CDC’s encouragement and the Newhouse Network.
What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to navigating Newhouse and post-grad?
There is pressure that comes with going to a school with as much prestige as Newhouse. I found myself comparing my own timeline and job to my classmates, which I learned should not have been the case. Every person and every industry has their own timeline, and every job or internship will come with learning opportunities that will get you to your “dream job.” You do not need to get a job months before graduation, and you don’t need to pressure yourself about not landing your dream job straight out of grad school.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
If you are interested in sports public relations specifically, get to know Professor Brad Horn. He was a mentor and a lifeline for me, introduced me to alumni and helped me to better understand the industry I wanted to work in. Getting involved in clubs is great, but, if possible, find a professor who needs a graduate assistant or research assistant. Not only is it nice to have a job on campus, but you will develop relationships with professors, which will help you in the long run!
Master’s Alumni Profile: Syrine Bougatef G’24
Newhouse Master’s Program: Public Relations
Current Position: Senior Account Executive at Edelman
How did you land your current position and what positions did you hold before it?
Edelman reached out regarding an account executive opportunity in June 2022, while I was an account coordinator at Allison Worldwide, and I have since been promoted to senior account executive.
Before this position I had been an account executive at Edelman, an account coordinator at Allison Worldwide and a graphic designer for Hill Communications.
What is an average day like for you on the job?
My day starts with media monitoring. Then I will pivot to any outstanding deliverables which I complete in between internal meetings and client calls. My day ends with another round of media monitoring. I work in a very fast-paced sector of public relations (national and global healthcare policy) so no day looks the same and external factors will often intercept, but a variety of media monitoring, deliverables and meetings are always sprinkled throughout.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
Completing Newhouse’s thesis track laid the foundation for the writer and strategic thinker that I am today. My thesis was by far the most challenging component of my time at Newhouse, but simultaneously the most rewarding, and forced me to be resilient—which is crucial in the public relations field.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
Newhouse exposed me to communication law courses and graphic design courses, which I did not initially foresee being part of my graduate journey but were greatly appreciated.
What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important?
Through my professional opportunities so far, I have had the chance to work in New York City and Washington, D.C.—two iconic cities that I likely would not have had the opportunity to live in if it was not for work and have shaped me into the person I am today, both personally and professionally.
What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program?
The 13-month aspect of the program was a big selling point, as well as the variety in the curriculum and emphasis on community, both while completing the program and following graduation. Newhouse’s renowned reputation also made the program stand out among my other options.
What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to your field?
The misconception that networking is the most important part of the Newhouse experience—developing tactical skills and becoming a well-rounded, motivated and mature professional is just as important, and will lay the foundation for success and growth in the professional world post-graduation.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
- You do not have much time at Newhouse, so make sure that you are spending it wisely and taking classes that align with the direction you’d like to take post-graduation.
- If your program offers different tracks (i.e. internship vs thesis), pick the one that you are truly interested in and will bring you value, even if it is not the popular choice.
- Do your research regarding post-graduation employment opportunities early and often—your degree can take you in many different directions and industries.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Tommy Hogan G’22
Newhouse Master’s Program: Television, Radio and Film
Current Position: Sports Producer at the New York Post
How did you land your current position?
I started as a production assistant (PA) at the New York Post in 2022 and now I’m a producer. I found the PA job on LinkedIn and continued to email my now boss, Warren Cohen, about my strong interest in the position before and throughout the interview process. Before working at the Post, I was a producer and co-host on ESPN Radio Syracuse.
What is an average day like for you on the job?
I work the night shift, so I go into the office at 4 p.m. on weekdays and start the day by talking with my day shift co-workers about their workday and whatever is going on in the sports world. Then, I get settled in and have a conversation with the night shift producer and associate producer about our plan for the night. I see which local teams spoke to the media that day and if there’s a story that would benefit with an interview by a New York Post writer. After that, I scour the internet for videos in the sports world from that day and work with our digital host to start producing and editing YouTube shorts.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
Newhouse gave me a sense for what the daily production conversations would feel and sound like. I now have the confidence to interject when I have an opinion about something we are working on. A big part of my job has become editing YouTube shorts, and I was introduced to editing on Adobe Premiere at Newhouse—a program I now use at work.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
I never was exposed or interested in video editing before Newhouse, now it is my favorite part of my job at the New York Post. I also never knew I was interested in live TV production before Newhouse. Multi-Camera TV Production was my favorite class while at Newhouse. All the different aspects that go into creating live TV and the teamwork that needed to go into it for it to be quality content blew me away.
What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important?
NFL and NBA Draft nights are always the most fun because of the anticipation…and New York teams are usually picking pretty high.
What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program?
Working in radio at the time made the television, radio and film program very attractive. I gained an interest in radio while getting my undergraduate degree at Syracuse University but knowing that radio was a dying medium, I hoped to learn more about its transition into the digital world.
Did you take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center?
The Newhouse Career Development Center aided me tremendously in improving my resume to make it more professional when I was applying for jobs.
What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to your field?
Working in sports means you must always be ready for news to break, especially in New York where there are many teams, and all the fan bases are extremely passionate.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Try your best to make connections with people in your industry because that will always be helpful down the road. Multi-Camera TV Production is my favorite class I have ever taken, graduate or undergraduate. It is great exposure to how live television works and forces you to build relationships with classmates.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Gabriel Veiga G’22
Newhouse Master’s Program: Goldring Arts Journalism and Communications
Current Position: Writer/Producer at CBC News Network
How did you land your current position?
I reached out to an executive producer on LinkedIn, and he replied right away and said he could do a Zoom meeting with me the next day. Then I interviewed with my current boss, he gave me a writing test… and then he said he could hire me as a writer. So, I started as a senior for CBC News Network and now I am a writer and producer.
Before this, I was a news producer at WROC-TV in Rochester, New York.
What is an average day like for you on the job?
As a breaking news producer – you’re assigned a breaking news story, and you work with a reporter to get it on the air. You write intros and outros for anchors to read, write questions the reporters want the host to ask them, and you create graphics and supers.
It’s very hands-on. While you’re already doing all the technical stuff and getting a live hit ready, you also have to monitor social media, newswires and emails because if something happens or some other developments come, you must be on top of it. It’s a job that is fast paced and that has a lot of pressure attached to it. But I love working with reporters, it’s my favorite thing to do at CBC so it’s a great job for me. The whole job is a very collaborative process between you and the reporter.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
The best thing about Newhouse is that it gives you hands-on experience/field experience, so you don’t go into a job blindly. When you are at Newhouse, you know exactly what the life of a journalist is. At Newhouse you learn quickly that you must be proactive and get out of your comfort zone to get the best interviews/stories/voices/facts. So, Newhouse prepared me in the best ways.
I just think I didn’t really know a lot about what a producer does while I was studying at school and looking back, I would have liked to learn more about it. When you’re at Newhouse there is a lot of emphasis on on-air jobs but not a lot of emphasis on behind-the-scenes work. And I think it’s very important for people to learn about producing. The best reporters I have ever worked with had producing experience.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
Yes, I was in the Goldring arts journalism and communications program and then I took a broadcast class, Mornings on the Hill, and that changed my whole future. During that class, I learned about on-air reporting, producing, and how to write on-air scripts (VOs, SOTVOs, PKGs) — all things that are essential to my job now.
I think it’s a very important class to take no matter what you want to do. There are so many jobs in broadcast television – more than in print or in other types of journalism – and people should be aware of that. Students should also be aware that news directors are desperate for producers (whether you have experience or not).
What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important?
Working for national news in Canada has been incredibly fulfilling and exciting. CBC treats its employees very well. I am very grateful to be working there. I was in local news before this, and I was not excited about the news we were covering. I am excited about the things we cover at CBC and how we cover them. CBC has a very good reputation and excellent standards. It’s a good place to work if you want to be a journalist. It values great storytelling and quality.
What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program?
We travelled a lot. That’s number one. We went to NYC twice and spent three weeks in Charleston, South Carolina. I also really love entertainment and wanted to write about film and TV and the program gave me that opportunity. I could interview actors and filmmakers and write stories on them. The program is also amazing when it comes to networking: you meet a lot of people that work at places you would want to work at (e.g. The New York Times, People Magazine, Indiewire, Variety, Slate). We also watched a lot of shows, movies and ate great food all the time.
There were only 10 of us in the program as well, so it was a small group of very smart people with similar interests (all interested in the arts), and we quickly felt like a family.
Did you take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center?
Yes, they helped me build my resume and cover letters. They’re very good at that and I still use what they taught me to this day when I apply for jobs.
What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to your field?
I think students should be aware that being a journalist is very stressful at times and it can be very mentally exhausting. The stories you’re on are not always what you want to write about or what you want to cover. You rarely get something you want to cover (at least in the beginning). The pay most companies offer is not impressive. Do a lot of research into the companies before you sign any contract. Prioritize your mental health always. Again, it’s a very stressful job and things will feel overwhelming at times. Learn to pace yourself.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Just take every opportunity Newhouse offers (networking opportunities, career fairs, interview opportunities, etc.) Like I said, Newhouse gives you hands-on experience and that will be incredibly valuable in your careers – so take advantage of that and learn all you can from the experiences you get. Being a journalist at Newhouse resembles real life and the school will prepare you for your future jobs.
Take different types of classes – don’t just stick to arts journalism or broadcast journalism, or on-air focused classes… do it all. Get all the skills you can get.
Do internships, connect with people on LinkedIn while you’re still in school. Network as much as you can during your time at Newhouse. Get out of your comfort zone and force yourself to network. Thank me later.
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.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Tonia Michele Davis G’22
Tonia Michele Davis G’22
Newhouse Master’s Program: Broadcast and Digital Journalism
Current Position: Meteorologist at WBRC Fox 6 News
How did you obtain your current position?
My path to WBRC started in the summer of 2022, when I met WBRC FOX6 News anchor Steve Crocker and news director Shannon Isbell at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Las Vegas. I approached them about my interest in pursuing my meteorology career post-graduate school and I wanted to move to Birmingham to be closer to my fiancé (now husband) and family. I attended the convention thanks to Syracuse University and my position as NABJ SU chapter treasurer.
What’s an average day like for you on the job?
I kick off my day before 8 a.m., hitting the gym, tackling schoolwork, handling house chores and caring for my dog, Mocha, before my ‘9 to 5’ routine begins. Then, it’s time to head to WBRC where my shift runs from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Friday. Upon arrival, I dive into assembling the day’s forecast, analyzing forecast models and collaborating with my weather producer to fine-tune our 6:30 p.m. weather show.
I kick off the 4 p.m. newscast, delivering the forecast every six minutes. After a brief dinner break at 5 p.m., I return to anchor the 6:30 p.m. weather show. By 7 p.m., I’m recording forecasts for gas station pumps and doctor’s offices, along with managing custom social media updates and push alerts for our WBRC WX app users. By 8:30 p.m. or so, I begin prepping for the 9 p.m. newscast which involves building graphics and refreshing my makeup before going live again every six minutes to provide the latest weather updates. By 10 p.m., I’m wrapping up tasks, sending out updates, responding to emails and planning for the next day. Around 11 p.m., it is time to head home and prepare to do it all over again!
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
Newhouse prepared me for my current position by instilling a strong work ethic and the power of consistency and discipline. Through managing heavy workloads and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, I have been able to prioritize tasks effectively. In terms of hard skills, Newhouse equipped me with a comprehensive toolkit for multimedia journalism. I learned how to speak, shoot, edit and write compelling stories, which made me a well-rounded candidate when I applied to WBRC. For instance, I was taught video editing on software like Adobe Premiere, a transferable skill that I now use when editing on CapCut. This skill has allowed me to produce polished content like news packages under tight deadlines for Weather Extra. My editing skills have also allowed me to produce daily content on my social media platforms where I now have over 20 thousand followers combined.
Additionally, Newhouse emphasized the development of soft skills where I learned to focus on progress rather than perfection, understanding that continuous improvement is key to personal and professional growth. Lastly, Newhouse reinforced the importance of time management where I have developed the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities without compromising quality. Overall, the combination of hard and soft skills I acquired at Newhouse has played a significant role in my ability to excel in my current position at WBRC.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field?
Yes! Newhouse broadened my horizons and led me to unexpected paths, including joining the military. Before attending Newhouse, I never imagined myself pursuing a military career. However, the confidence and leadership skills I gained during my time there encouraged me to explore opportunities outside of my comfort zone.
What unique features of your graduate program drew you to it?
The first feature of the graduate program that caught my eye was the duration of it. The 13-month program was exactly what I needed, offering a quick pathway into the workforce. It provided everything I needed to know for my big-girl job at the number one station in Birmingham, Alabama, at WBRC. Plus, I was able to have other experiences while at SU like working for Forbes as a paid media intern, serving in organizations on campus like NABJ and Newhouse President, getting a temporary job at KOB4 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and networking with like-minded individuals.
Did the Newhouse Career Development Center aid you?
While at SU, I wore many hats as I tried to get my foot in a little bit of everything to seek out my passions. I worked for Forbes as a paid media intern. I also served in organizations on campus like NABJ SU as treasurer and was elected Newhouse president. Additionally, I believe I used the Newhouse Career Development center to get my on-campus job in the financial aid building. I worked as an employee in the office of the financial literacy department guiding students on their financial literacy projects and overseeing the social media page.
What are some obstacles or misconceptions about your field?
Graduate school at SU is challenging. You will need to pace yourself and have clear goals daily so you can stay on top of the heavy workload. There will be late nights and hard days, but it is preparing you to be your best self, and you will look back at your journey and be proud. One of the biggest misconceptions is that graduate school gives you more freedom than undergraduate school, so you will have more free time to work other jobs, hang out, etc. This is true only to an extent. There were courses in graduate school that took so much of my time that I had to take off from work just to get my school stuff done. Be careful how much you take on outside of school, because the workload can be a lot.
What moments in your career have been most exciting or defining thus far?
My most exciting career moment was working in New Mexico. I worked there for three months. I traveled and explored through the state while my housing, car and flights were paid for by the news station. A highlight of my career and one that still feels like a dream.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Enjoy life’s journey. Every step, every hour, every day, every week, and every year you get out of life is valuable. There will be storms, but they will pass. So, embrace the hard moments too. Newhouse is such a magical place if you view it that way. I highly recommend taking Olivia Stomski‘s courses. She will bring influential people into her classes to speak about life and work and to motivate and inspire you. Take advantage of those moments too and ask questions.
And always remember this from your favorite meteorologist (me)…to #fightthestorm
Master’s Alumni Profile: Courtney Terr G’22
Courtney Terr G’22
Newhouse Master’s Program: Advanced Media Management
Current Position: Sales Planner, Pricing and Inventory CBS Network Sales, Paramount
How did you obtain your current position, and what positions did you hold before it?
I had applied to the sales planner position through the Paramount job portal while I was finishing the summer capstone project. At the time, I did not have any connections to the company, but the strength of my academic and internship experience helped me to land the role shortly after I left Syracuse.
Before I worked at Paramount, I was a director of audience development co-op intern for the United States Travelers League. I obtained this role by working with Professor Sean Branagan and the Newhouse Startup Garage. The program connects students with media and tech startups so that they can provide the expertise they gain from their coursework to companies in need of their insight. As an undergraduate, I was an audience development intern for NBC News, which I obtained after having an interview on campus with one of the NBC recruiters. I was also a media planning intern for RPM, a boutique ad agency that markets live entertainment in New York City. I completed this internship while participating in the Newhouse NYC program when I was an undergraduate student.
What’s an average day like for you on the job?
There is not really an average day as a sales planner. There are weekly deliverables and reports where I track the performance of CBS Primetime shows and how they are impacting clients’ sales plans; however, the majority of my work is based on demographic reads and plan edit requests I receive from account managers and account executives. Additionally, whenever there is a change in the airing schedule, my team and I work to figure out new estimates for how a show could potentially perform in its new timeslot. The busiest time of year for me is during the upfront season in the summer, where I am working with clients to plan out where all of their purchased ad spots will air throughout the upcoming season.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
My classroom experience played a major role in preparing me for my position here at CBS. My academic coursework, both in my undergraduate and graduate studies in the television industry provided a baseline understanding of how television advertising worked. Therefore, I was able to dive in headfirst and assist my team during the hectic upfront season. Outside of that, courses like Advanced Media Business, Trendspotting in Digital Media, Topics in Advanced Media Management and New Ventures in Media helped me better learn how to identify emerging technology trends and how they could affect my industry. While linear television may not seem like it is on the forefront of new technology advancement, there are changes in the way television audiences are being measured, and I must be in the know of what adjustments are being made and how they could potentially change how we build our advertising plans for clients and determine the success of our shows.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
As a part of our Topics in Advanced Media Management course, we had a week-long immersion trip to New York City where we heard from program alumni and toured businesses that aligned with our coursework. This trip helped me gain a better understanding of what career options were available to me after graduating. The advanced media management program provided me with a versatile degree that I could have applied to careers in social media marketing, search marketing, brand management, UI/UX design and more.
What unique features of your graduate program drew you to it in the first place?
After completing my dual enrollment program at Whitman and Newhouse for my undergraduate degree in marketing and advertising, I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I would be working at the intersection of data analytics and marketing strategy. However, I wanted to better fine tune my skills in those areas. I came across the advanced media management program and liked how I would not only be able to perfect my search marketing and strategy skills, but also develop a better understanding of how emerging technologies drive innovation in the media landscape.
Did the Newhouse Career Development Center aid you?
While I was a graduate student, I worked as a director of audience development co-op intern for the United States Travelers League (USTL), a website dedicated to publishing content that would encourage readers to travel to all 50 states. I had taken Professor Sean Branagan’s classes in Trendspotting in Media and New Ventures in Media. He had connected me with the Newhouse Startup Garage group who then connected me to the CEO of USTL. As the director of audience development, I was able to take my coursework knowledge of search engine optimization and social media marketing and apply it to my internship. I conducted an exploratory analysis of the company’s current strategy and then implemented a strategy to improve their outreach and engagement with followers. It was an incredible opportunity to have work experience and apply what I was learning at Newhouse to my job.
What are some obstacles or misconceptions about your field that students ought to be aware of?
I had thought of ad sales as solely a salesperson department. I had assumed that the only roles in an ad sales department at a major media organization were the account managers and executives who were selling ad spaces to advertising agencies. While there are certainly plenty of client-facing roles in the ad sales department at Paramount, there are also plenty of other roles in areas like research, strategy and branded content marketing. It is important to pay attention to specific jobs that you are interested in rather than focus on what department they are located under.
What moments in your career have been most exciting or defining thus far?
One of the most exciting and challenging moments of my career so far has been coming up with audience estimates for a brand-new fall primetime schedule after the Writers Guild of America went on strike. I had just recently joined the primetime group after working in the daytime/ late night group, so I was still getting used to the role. Suddenly, we were tasked with determining how many people would potentially be tuning in to a new slate of programming, including shows that have never aired on CBS, right before the upfront season! With the support of my team, I was able to better understand my role and best determine how to figure out which demographics would likely be tuning into an episode of the U.K. version of “Ghosts” versus a repeat of “Blue Bloods.” Every day was an exciting challenge with updates to the schedule being made up until the fall 2023 season started, and it helped me learn what it takes to accurately predict an audience of a CBS show.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Take advantage of every opportunity available to you, especially if it is an internship opportunity. My time applying what I learned in Newhouse to the real world has helped me to fine tune and better understand what I have learned, and it has helped me be a more valuable asset to my team.
I would also recommend using your electives to take a course in an area of interest to you. I had used my electives to take a course in Television Programming and Audience Analysis and Critical and Historical Perspectives on Television, Radio and Film. Even though these courses were not directly related to the overall advanced media management program, they helped me gain expertise in an industry I was interested in having a career in. Ultimately, the knowledge I obtained while taking these courses about the overall television industry as well as how advertisements are sold in a TV market provided me with an edge in my interview process that helped me to land my job at Paramount.
I have to thank the incredible professors I’ve had at Newhouse while being a grad student, including but not limited to Professor Adam Peruta, Professor Sean Branagan, Professor Ed Hersh, Professor Bob Bierman, Professor Bob Thompson, and Professor Shelly Palmer. My time in their classes learning about the emerging media landscape and the television industry has been so beneficial to my career thus far, and the support they have provided me both while I was a student and after graduating when it comes to my academic and professional endeavors have been so greatly appreciative.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Jordan Bonaparte G’22
Jordan Bonaparte G’22
Newhouse Master’s Program: Advertising
Current Position: Sales Planner, NBCUniversal, New York, NY
How did you obtain your current position, and what positions did you hold before it?
While in graduate school, I was always looking for the next step. I decided to apply to the International Radio and Television Society Fellowship which was sent to me via email by Professor James Tsao. I made many connections through the fellowship and was able to intern with Hearts & Science as a paid search associate on their AT&T account. Once my internship concluded, I was able to use my fellowship connections to obtain employment at NBCUniversal working within ad sales.
What’s an average day like for you on the job?
No day is the same here at NBCU. I work alongside different advertising agencies to ensure that clients’ commercials are being advertised on our NBCU properties (USA, Syfy and Universal Kids). I maintain commercial deals post sale and make sure all commercial spots air when needed within the year. I also work with different departments internally such as our inventory, finance and sales operation teams.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
Newhouse definitely prepared me for the advertising world, specifically with the different terminology and jargon learned throughout the program. Prior to attending Newhouse, I had no idea what an agency was. While onboarding at NBCU, I was already familiar with some of the terms used due to the coursework that I went through while attending Newhouse. Learning how to pitch is something I also learned from Newhouse that has helped me with interviewing and presenting in front of different agencies and internal partners. In addition to terminology and jargon, Media Math is something that I was able to learn in classes taught by Professor Beth Egan and it is something that I still use today.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
Newhouse opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of opportunity within the media field. I was not as knowledgeable when it came to media and advertising terminology prior to attending Newhouse. I knew I loved media but was not sure which road I wanted to take when it came to advertising. The advertising program prepared me for real-world scenarios that clients were facing post-COVID. It was during this time where I figured out that I may want to work on the entertainment side, specifically in sales.
What unique features of your graduate program drew you to it in the first place?
Newhouse being the top communication school in the country is what immediately drew my attention to the program. Also meeting people in the media field in NYC, you are bound to run into a Newhouse grad. That should say a ton about the production of media powerhouses Newhouse produces. Having done prior research, I knew that the advertising program took a hands-on approach in ensuring that students had the opportunity to work with real clients and quite frankly, the best of the best. Working with clients such as Snickers, Neiman Marcus and FOX Sports made the work enjoyable. While the program is an accelerated one-year program and can be deemed rigorous, I knew that I had made the right choice attending this institution.
Did the Newhouse Career Development Center aid you?
The Career Development Center would always send emails for different job opportunities and internships that would catch my eye. I applied to so many internships for the summer since I had to complete my capstone, and emails were sent daily for opportunities to apply. For any students interested in internships and job placements, I would definitely encourage you to walk by the Career Development Center. They are there to help and guide you to get you where you want to be!
What are some obstacles or misconceptions about your field that students ought to be aware of?
Within the media world, there are many obstacles you may face. At times work can be extremely busy, and you are sometimes required to work longer hours than expected. However, you are well compensated for your time and effort. Especially here at NBCU, food is always being brought in for late nights (for free!) and overtime is always a plus. Some may be worried about the money while first starting out (I know I was!), but the money will come. One thing about the media field is you can move up fairly quickly and make a great salary. The first few years may be tough, but climbing the ladder will be rewarding in the end. A Newhouse degree will definitely give you an advantage when applying to jobs at well-known agencies and entertainment networks.
What moments in your career have been most exciting or defining thus far?
Working with clients that I am familiar with daily has made my job enjoyable. The connections I’ve made in this industry have been nothing short of amazing. Thinking about my journey from undergrad to graduate school, and now working at a top media company, the hard work paying off has definitely been the most defining moment thus far. While I’ve only been at NBCU for a little over a year, I’m sure that more exciting moments will be coming my way.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
- Not knowing exactly what you want to do is okay! Newhouse professors will guide you in the right direction. Take advantage of office hours and the abundance of resources available at your disposal.
- Make as many connections as you can! You will thank yourself for reaching out and establishing these relationships in the future.
- Impostor syndrome can be normal; don’t let it consume you and know that you are here and were chosen for a reason.
Master’s Alumni Profile: Claribel Rivas G’20
Claribel Rivas G’20
Newhouse Master’s Program: Magazine, News and Digital Journalism
Current Position: Social Media Manager, PBS Digital Studios in Arlington, VA.
How did you obtain your current position, and what positions did you hold before it?
In November 2020, I was offered the Gwen Ifill fellowship at Washington Week where I managed the Instagram account which the team was really interested in growing. After my fellowship was over in June 2021, I was offered a position as a senior social media manager for the National Digital Content team at WETA. There, I worked with the digital content team and producers to come up with social media strategies for campaigns, identify best practices to build viewership across broadcast and online programs, as well as oversee the social accounts for WETA programs. In December 2021, I was offered a social media manager position at PBS Digital Studios, working my way up to the PBS headquarters in Arlington, VA.
What’s an average day like for you on the job?
PBS Digital Studios is a network of educational digital shows distributed on YouTube. The show topics range from STEM to music and arts. I start my day looking through any messages from the producers we work with and see if there is anything I need to review for the day. Some of the things I would review would be rough cuts of social videos, final cuts of social videos, social scripts or social assets that our show producers send us to help promote their series. Once I go through the reviews and approve them, I head over to our social calendar and see what is scheduled to be published for the day. I try to block time on my calendar for up to two hours to focus solely on publishing. Once all the posts are scheduled for the day, I attend any meetings on my schedule. Usually, our meetings are to catch up with producers and check in on how the show is going. We talk through episode ideas, social video ideas, episode schedules or any other agenda items. Once meetings are done, I usually have a few more posts that need to be published so I’ll go back and see what I’ve missed and make sure they are good to go. I also take time in the afternoon to review/moderate our comment section and respond/flag to anything that needs our attention.
How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position?
Newhouse prepared me for my current position by providing a wide range of classes that helped build my skillset. From magazine writing classes to video production classes, I graduated with essential design and creative skills that would be useful for any job. Since graduating, I have used almost all of the skills I learned at Newhouse. I’ve had to manage websites, create graphics, edit social videos on Adobe, present in front of an audience and use my storytelling skills in all aspects of writing and design. Newhouse taught me so many great real-world professional skills, and I felt more than ready to enter my career after graduation.
Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?
After graduation, I was certain I was going to go straight into reporting for a digital magazine. However, the skills that I learned at Newhouse were transferable for a variety of different jobs. Social media was already an interest of mine, and I didn’t realize that there was more to being a social media manager than just posting on Instagram. Although publishing and managing our social calendar is a big part of my job, I also act as an editorial/social lead for some of our YouTube shows. I work with producers to craft entertaining and educational stories through social media video, while also ensuring each video meets our editorial standards and expectations. Creative storytelling is a big part of what I work on at Digital Studios and Newhouse was able to prepare me for a role that entailed the skills needed for this.
What unique features of your graduate program drew you to it in the first place?
What drew me to the magazine, news and digital journalism program was the Newhouse Diversity News Fellowship. This fellowship was granted to two students interested in the program who majored in something other than journalism in undergrad. The fellowship seemed like a great opportunity for someone like me who was interested in pivoting to reporting, especially since I had a growing interest in international reporting. Syracuse was the only school I applied to for my graduate degree, and I wanted to take a chance at being accepted into the fellowship program. I was selected as a semi-finalist and was able to receive a full-tuition scholarship to attend Newhouse! Since the program was only a little over a year long, I quickly applied to positions that would help make my resume stronger and enhance my skills, as well as trying new journalism avenues that I didn’t get to do during undergrad. I interned at NewsChannel 9 as a show intern, worked at Orange Television Network as the Promotions Manager, and even tried some broadcast roles as a bilingual reporter for Noticias on CitrusTV. There were so many great opportunities on and off campus.
Did the Newhouse Career Development Center aid you?
The Newhouse Career Development Center was helpful in connecting me with alumni that were working in positions I was interested in, as well as in the city I was hoping to move to after graduating. There were many classes where alumni would come speak to students and have an hour to network, exchange contacts and allow us to ask questions. It was all really inspiring to me to hear from alumni that were in my shoes not too long ago, and now able to share their success with students. It made me hopeful for the future.
What are some obstacles or misconceptions about your field that students ought to be aware of?
Working in journalism can be incredibly fun and rewarding. There are many opportunities to be in rooms with amazing people, travel across the country and help give a voice and platform to people who are often underrepresented or overlooked. However, even after graduating with a master’s degree, I quickly realized that I wasn’t going to start off with the most amazing salary, or even a senior-level role. Before attending Newhouse, I already had a full-time job and was on my way to moving up the ladder. Once I graduated from Newhouse, I had to pretty much start over as an intern again and work my way up. Although I worked my way up pretty quickly, I learned that sometimes you have to take a few steps back to get into the position and field that you want to be in. Only now, with a degree from Newhouse, you are much smarter, wiser, better connected and have a strong skillset to take on any role.
What moments in your career have been most exciting or defining thus far?
Every day I get to work with some of the smartest creators on YouTube. It is so cool to see how a video idea comes to life from start to finish and knowing that I was involved in part of the process makes me really proud. One of the most exciting moments was when I attended the YouTube conference Vidcon in Los Angeles and represented PBS Digital Studios. I had dreamed of attending Vidcon ever since I was 12 years old. It’s an opportunity to meet famous YouTube creators and hear their success stories. My parents couldn’t afford to send me, so I would just watch the recaps on YouTube. Being able to attend years later, as a representative for PBS and networking with other industry professionals felt like a full-circle moment. I felt like I was making my younger self so proud!
Another moment is connecting with Syracuse students at Newhouse DC! I had connected with Cheryl Brody Franklin, and she offered me the chance to be on the alumni panel for Syracuse students spending a semester in DC. It was an exciting experience because I also remember being a student, eager to learn from alumni, and now I get to share some of my knowledge! Another full circle moment.
What advice do you have for current or incoming students?
Really take advantage of your time at Syracuse and try new things! Even try things that you think you won’t enjoy and see if you can prove yourself wrong. It may surprise you! I would definitely recommend taking Corey Takahashi’s class in multimedia journalism. It really helped me think outside the box and learn how to be a creative storyteller through a bunch of different mediums. The skills I learned in that class come up in my professional life every day. From storyboarding, to identifying b-roll, to scripting, this class prepares you for any creative role you may have upon graduation.