Full name: Hailey Radakovitz
Major(s)/minor(s): Strategic Communication major, Spanish and Marketing minors
Graduation year: 2021
Employer name and title: DeanHouston+, Marketing Manager

What interested you in your declared major/minor? 
Strategic Communication always interested me because it provided access to a wide range of professional opportunities after graduation. Originally, I wanted to pursue Journalism, but I was quickly drawn to public relations after joining CCOM. My CCOM professors were very encouraging and helped me explore the many opportunities a Strategic Communication degree could provide. That guidance (as well as advice from my academic advisor) is what ultimately led me to the PR field. As I went through Butler’s Strategic Communication program, I began pursuing Marketing as a minor because I wanted to better understand the analytical side of the field. This coursework within the Lacy School of Business furthered my professional skill set while also exposing me to a wide range of tools that would be extremely helpful to utilize after graduation. 

What experiential-focused opportunities did you have with your declared major/minor?
I was fortunate enough to have a variety of internships during my time at Butler. Through interning at public relations firms, a digital marketing agency, and even Butler’s own Career and Professional Success office, I was exposed to a wide array of experiences that helped strengthen my professional skillset and learned from those already established in these fields. Working with these established professionals played a significant part in my professional development, and these experiences helped me become prepared for life after graduation.

What do you do in your current position and how did Butler prepare you for it?
In my current position, I work as a Marketing Manager at a digital marketing agency. I work closely with our agency’s internal production teams on projects, and I also help clients build their brand strategies. I use tactics that were taught and discussed in my CCOM coursework everyday, so I feel that my classes helped me become thoroughly prepared for this role. 

Butler’s many career resources also allowed me to come into this role with a strong understanding of what was going to be expected of me as a professional. Early on during my time at Butler, I found myself utilizing the University’s Career and Professional Success office. The team in this office was extremely helpful, and they helped to guide me on my path as I created application materials, identified potential internships, and navigated interviews. 

What are your long-term career goals?
Long-term, I’d love to continue helping brands reach their marketing goals while also building meaningful relationships with both clients and coworkers. I also greatly enjoy project management, so I hope to strengthen my skill set in this area through the vast array of certifications that are offered for professionals. Eventually, I would also love to pursue a graduate degree to further grow my career and refine my professional skill set.

What advice would you give a first-year student as you reflect back on your experience at Butler?
Allow yourself to try new things, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes or take risks. Working towards a new, unfamiliar opportunity may be daunting at first, but if you’re passionate about something, you should never let fear prevent you from pursuing.