Master’s Alumni Profile: Syrine Bougatef G’24

Syrine Bougatef portrait
Syrine Bougatef

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?