University of Guelph-Humber alumna Danielle Jones at the Mindshare office in Toronto.
As soon as Danielle Jones landed a coveted job, one of the first things the University of Guelph-Humber alumna did was reach out to Media Studies Program Head Jerry Chomyn to express her gratitude.
“I just wanted to take a second and thank him for creating the Media Business specialization because if it were not for that career choice, I would not be working at my dream job right now,” Jones, who graduated this year, told Chomyn. “The four years I spent at the University of Guelph-Humber have paid off. I am now working at one of the largest media agencies in the world. It is all still so surreal.”
After months of research and emails to multiple agencies, Jones said she reached out to Mindshare, a well-known global media company, early this year seeking an internship position. Impressed with her drive, enthusiasm and grasp of the industry, the company offered her a full-time job.
At Mindshare, Jones’ responsibilities as an associate media planner include maintaining and updating records, executing monthly media plans, conducting research and analysis and creating budget distributions.
A well-rounded education
Jones, who specialized in Media Business (media sales, marketing and advertising), said the Media Studies program focused on delivering industry-specific knowledge as well as several transferable abilities such as presentation and persuasion skills, problem-solving, strategic thinking and more.
“During the program, we were taught to read and understand the audience as well as plan and implement an appropriate strategy and business plan for them,” Jones said. “That involved getting insights from the classroom as well as hands-on practical knowledge on different facets of brand marketing including strategic planning, analyzing, and understanding deadlines.”
There is no success without struggle
The UofGH alumna credits the mindset as an important factor in success. Her advice to students is simple. Show up to your classes, work hard, and focus on the studies.
“Just keep pushing through and embrace your struggles,” Jones said. “It will all be worth it someday when you too are sitting inside one of the largest media agencies in the world. Your struggles will become part of your success story.”
