Meagan Watson '12CPS

As a Journalism major in the College of Professional Studies, Meagan Watson learned how to interview people, gain their trust, and build relationships. Today, she is using those same interpersonal skills—not as a reporter, but as Director of Recruiting and Development with SearchPoint, a talent acquisition firm.

“My job is to support our clients' recruitment needs,” said Ms. Watson, who oversees a team of junior recruiters and account managers. “That can involve identifying candidates, providing career advice, and serving as a market expert. While journalism may not be directly related to recruitment, the tools and knowledge I acquired at St. John’s have served me well in this field.”

As a junior at the University, she secured a coveted internship at the NY Daily News with help from University Career Services. “While I ultimately pursued a different career direction,” Ms. Watson said, “I am incredibly grateful for the life skills I learned through that internship.”

Ms. Watson also enhanced her academic experience by participating in the University’s Discover the World: Europe program, where she traveled to Salamanca, Spain; Rome, Italy; and Paris, France. “I had a remarkable semester exploring new cultures, breaking out of my comfort zone, and building friendships that have lasted to this day,” she said.

As a member of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority and the University’s dance team, Ms. Watson participated in service activities throughout nearby communities. That desire to help others is still ingrained in her. “It is remarkably satisfying to place a candidate in a job opportunity,” she said. “As a recruiter, I am constantly helping people improve their careers and thus, their lives.”