Cat Huynh, class of 2016, is currently a Content Strategist at NMD Communications in the LA area.
What did you study at IU? What was your extracurricular involvement like?
“I studied Journalism and Communication & Culture, specializing in PR & Advertising, with a minor in Sociology. Some fun things I did during my time at IU include reporting for the Indiana Daily Student, being a part of IU PRSSA’s executive board, joining Agency 7, serving as an IU Media School Ambassador and working as a Resident Assistant for the (Mc)Nutt House.
Can you tell me about a typical day for you at work?
“As a Content Strategist for an advertising agency, every day is different. The past few months, I’ve been working closely with two clients to help execute their each respective rebrand, one being a hospital system and the other being a nonprofit that supports kids with disabilities and their families. From assisting with creative, such as directing design and imagery style, all the way down to the strategic copywriting, my job is to ensure that each
rebranding effort, whether a website landing page or informational brochure, are not only creative and consistent with the new brand, but effective.”
What is your long-term career goal?
“That’s a great question. I don’t exactly have that figured out yet, but the good news is every da
y I’m learning what I like to do and what I don’t like to do. What’s great about our field is that you have so many career options, but for the same reason it’s great, it’s also overwhelming. I also think this industry is always changing because how we communicate with each other is always changing, so for me, it’s hard to imagine being in a certain role forever. At the end of the day though, I love being able to flex my creativity and strategic thinking and I will always want to create conversations and content that make a difference.”
Do you have any favorite memories from PRSSA?
“So ma
ny great memories come to mind, it’s hard to choose!! One minute, our chapter is dancing to “Hotline Bling” in an elevator in Atlanta, and the next, we’re at an awe-inspiring agency, listening to creatives talk about their passion projects. For me, I can’t imagine my time at IU without PRSSA because it has developed a lot of my favorite friendships that inspire me. And I think what’s really special about PRSSA—it’s an organization that is based on developing relationships, one that thrives on both professional and personal connections.”
What advice would you give to current PRSSA members? “I like lists, so here’s a brief one: 1. Go on the trips, tours, join a committee, etc. — cliché, but get involved. You learn so much about all the types of media jobs out there, shape the kind of professional you want to turn into, get real experience with real clients and generate real results, all while making a really great group of friends. 2. Don’t compare yourself to others. It’s hard and I fall into that super anxiety-inducing trap sometimes, especially when it gets down to finding your next job or internship, but it’s so important to remember that everyone moves at their own pace—that’s okay. Be nice to yourself! 3. Be an eternal student. Shift happens in PR, advertising, marketing, etc., and it’s going to keep happening and that’s good. Whether the change is with society, culture or technology, always want to know more.”
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