I’ve always enjoyed creative expression. In addition to my Communications courses in college, I took classes like Improv Theater, Creative Writing, and Artistic Storytelling, knowing that I wanted to head in that direction.

I finally got a chance to join the party after I volunteered at a venue during Comic Con, when most of Hollywood picks up and moves to San Diego for the week. I connected with some amazing people, landed an internship with a film festival shortly after, and started commuting to LA.

At the next festival, I ran their social channels, conducted red carpet interviews with actors and directors whose work I really admired, and was able to observe everything that went into the production of it. The pace and excitement was something I wanted to be a part of long-term.

Public Speaking and Interview were two of the most enjoyable and applicable [courses] to what I wanted to pursue. My interview class in particular required that we actually go out and interview two people whose careers interested us. That assignment helped me build a relationship with the morning show host whose team I eventually joined.

In addition to course material, sometimes the biggest resources are the professors. Attend as many office hours as you can and get acquainted with the people in your field.

I had the chance to join a group study abroad program with Dr. William Snavely and Dr. Peter Andersen, two of the most esteemed (and at the time intimidating) professors in the Communication field. Through that trip abroad, though, we were able to connect with them as people and friends in addition to learning from them.

They became mentors, and that changed the way I navigated through college afterward. That very first Comic Con gig actually came directly from Dr. Snavely. He reached out because he thought I might be interested.

Both Dr. Snavely and Dr. Anderson advised us to take advantage of programs and opportunities, even if it required extra work. Join as many groups in your field as possible. You’ll meet other people who understand your goals and share your work ethic. Great success evolves from sincere relationships.

It’s been exciting to let my personality leak into my work and influence the means, execution, and product. Covering events, interacting with listeners, and blogging has helped me become more comfortable in my own skin. I’ve learned that I get energy from people and find fulfillment by getting to know their stories and sharing bits of mine. 

When I was starting out with my company, there were times I held back my enthusiasm or quirks. Instead I “played it cool” and tried not be too cheesy because I didn’t want to attract judgment. But that faded and I realized it was much more beneficial to just be myself.

It gets a bit more structured in this area. [The Promotions Department] involves a lot of demographic analysis (who is the station’s target user?), breaking numbers down to an individual level—her age, her name, her interests.

I [use that data to] develop promotions and partnerships with organizations in the community that appeal to our audience. It begins with a written proposal and, most of the time, ends in an event or giveaway that allows our audience to better align their interests with the station’s promotions.

It’s so valuable to have a grasp on marketing principles because they apply to any brand you’re representing and have even helped me understand my personal brand.

So much fun! I’m a huge fan of fashion, which makes it easier in terms of beginning a genuine conversation. The best trick to staying calm is good old fashioned research beforehand. Whether it’s a film or a runway show, familiarizing yourself with the script before a segment allows for a more in-depth interview. That way, you have the basic information down and can create more compelling content.

Finding the time to do the research can sometimes be an obstacle, or at least, it’s sometimes mine! One trick I use while driving is asking Siri about the subject and listening in between errands or commutes…I think it’s safe to say I’ve developed too close of a relationship with her!

I’m constantly checking local media channels to stay connected to the community. I’m also a part of an awesome Late Night show called Tonight in San Diego—that keeps me up to speed. For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of working with Make a Wish Foundation. Their work is such an inspiration to me. I love the power of imagination and believe that magical things happen every day, and the organization brings that to life for children with life-threatening illnesses.

As far as pop culture, that’s always a fun one. I love Twitter and search trending videos for news. I get “hashtag lost” on the web pretty often!

When I’m running early, it starts with a latte and a thank you to the universe! Then partner research, segment prep and sometimes, an event (or several) for some of the other media outlets I work with or for Fashion Week San Diego. I end with a to-do list for the next day to unwind.

I’m so grateful for all of those moments, but if I had to choose, I’m most proud of my red carpet and segment video coverage for the station. In radio, video doesn’t always accompany audio, but moving into a digital age, multimedia platforms are necessary. I [knew I] had to create a “digital personality” for myself that also fit with the brand. I would cover events and red carpets during the weekends, but it was missing during the workweek. So I decided to create and pitch video coverage to the company.

My biggest challenge was maintaining a full-time role in marketing without losing sight of my original goals. I had to find a way to pursue both. I remember picking up an issue of Marie Claire and the @Work section read: “Turn your day job into your dream job.” It really resonated and so I decided to pitch the video-entertainment blogs in addition to on air [work].

In broadcasting, everything is connected (PR, promotions, talent, product, sales, revenue, etc.) It’s all a part of one large system that keeps the industry running.

You know you’ve found something worth pursuing when you spring out of bed in the morning wanting to start your next project. I’m so excited to get into more hosting and feature correspondence and am grateful to connect with people through this medium, so I can’t wait to see what’s in store!