Jennifer Brooks graduated from Merrimack College in 2015 with her Master of Science in Management and in 2013 with her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing; Honors student. The O’Brien Center caught up with her to learn more about her first few months as an alumni.
What are you doing now that you’ve graduated?
In the summer of 2015, after receiving my MSM from Merrimack, I accepted a position at MARC USA, a marketing and communications firm located in Stoneham, MA. I serve as a Data Analyst on two major accounts, reporting to clients on the success of the advertising and marketing campaigns coordinated through MARC. Every day, I utilize the skills I developed at Merrimack (both in graduate and undergraduate courses) including Microsoft Excel, communications and leading effective teams.
Why or how did your goals change from what you originally wanted to pursue?
As a marketing undergrad, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in that field. But because that industry is so broad, I was unsure what focus was the best fit for me. After participating in a business development program called Koru, I realized marketing analytics would be a fantastic blend of my left-brain analytical skills and right-brain passion for innovation and creativity. Based on the company, the job, and the industry, this position was clearly the optimal situation.
How did your time at Merrimack benefit you to future career choices or passions/interests?
The wide range of topics covered even within the business disciplines has become extremely beneficial in my new position. Being able to at least discuss accounting, financial, and management principles is incredibly important in a firm which relies heavily upon teamwork and cross-trained employees. I’m comfortable discussing almost any topic because of the balanced education I received at Merrimack.
What is your favorite Merrimack memory?
In undergrad, I participated in a lot of service trips (AFB, AWB and ASB) through Campus Ministry. By living in solidarity with the people I was serving, it really opened my eyes to how blessed I am to have had the opportunity to complete two degrees at Merrimack College. I met many wonderful people on those trips, who still hold a special place in my heart, because they taught me to always make the best out of any given situation. I’ve carried on that mentality as I embark on my career.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Choose a major with your head. Choose a minor with your heart.
Did you use the O’Brien Center for any reason during your undergraduate experience?
I visited the O’Brien Center for help with my resume and cover letter during my undergrad, and I wish I used it more. I encourage all students to take full advantage of the services the O’Brien Center has to offer because it helped me find my dream job. My career advisor always went out of her way to help me throughout grad school, and I wish I visited the O’Brien Center more frequently as an undergrad.
