Advertising Students Gain Valuable Insights at Workshop

Students in the M.S. in Integrated Advertising Communications and B.S. in Advertising Communications and Public Relations degree programs in The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies participated in a workshop, “How to Get Your First Agency Job,” on Saturday, March 22. 

The event, held at the Drs. E. Lawrence and Adele V. Deckinger Center for Integrated Advertising Communications and the Communication and Collaboration Commons, included various activities throughout the day. First, students gained insights in roundtable sessions led by St. John’s alumni working in various advertising sectors. 

Students appreciated the opportunity to explore different career paths in their intended career field. “It was encouraging to learn more about the options available in the advertising field,” said Linda Ankrah, a senior Advertising Communications and Public Relations major. “It helped me see that I do not have to confine myself to one thing. It was really helpful to see the various ways I could use my degree.”

Devin Brown, a senior in the Advertising Communications and Public Relations program, also shared: “I thought the roundtable discussions were really valuable. I spent a lot of time talking to the art director there, Artiana, who gave me valuable insights from what she’s doing and how to really get my foot in the door in the industry since I’m on the creative side.” 

Stelly Aimel Altubar, an Advertising Communication major expected to graduate in May 2025, echoed the sentiment: “I took this amazing opportunity to talk to and connect with successful people who are in the current position I want to be in someday!”

Amelia Monastra-Gonzalez ’16C, a St. John’s alumna who now works as a Senior Art Director at 160over90, shared her thoughts on returning to the University to speak to students. “Their drive and passion reminded me of myself at that stage—eager, curious, and ready to take on the industry. They reaffirmed something I learned throughout my experience in the industry—that ambition, creativity, and tenacity are what help you succeed in this field.”

Next, the event featured a panel discussion with human resources representatives. Panelists included Xavier Griffin, Senior Talent Acquisition Manager, Jellyfish; Maureen Maldari, Cofounder and Chief Executive Officer, The BAM Connection; and Paige Soltano, Director of Placement and Outreach, Fairleigh Dickinson University. 

“The event was great. The students were engaged and truly present,” said Ms. Soltano, who helps connect students with employment opportunities.

“One of the most valuable moments was probably the panel discussion because we got to hear from chief executive officers and recruiters about what they’re looking for in potential candidates and what we should be working on,” shared Bianca Fernandes, a senior in the Advertising Communications and Public Relations program. 

Panelists discussed best practices for applying for jobs, interviewing, and following up. Students got the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of how to approach their job search in the current market. 

Ms. Soltano also highlighted some of her most important tips: “Research the company, have questions prepared, and follow up. Interviewing is nerve-wracking. Be confident in your experience and your story. Be sure to know everything on your résumé and be prepared to talk about it.”

Finally, University Career Services conducted a LinkedIn workshop to help students improve their profile. For Kaila Lightburn, a graduate student in the Integrated Advertising Communications program, this was particularly valuable. “The LinkedIn workshop was also incredibly helpful in an age where applicant tracking systems determine most of how candidates are picked for jobs,” she shared.

The workshop covered everything from optimizing profiles and biographies to building connections and finding jobs on LinkedIn. Students got some hands-on practice on how to improve their profiles, build connections, and find open positions on LinkedIn. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed the event and would recommend it in the future for students,” Kaila said. “Hopefully I will be able to return as an alumni speaker.”