Point Park University Alumna is the Communications Manager at Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Alumni Profile
Meet Marissa Ross '17
- Job Title & Employer
- Communications Manager, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
- Major/Program
- Public Relations & Advertising
- Hometown
- Economy Borough, Pa.
- High School
- Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School
- Now Living In
- Hopewell, Pa.
- Dream Job
- My dream job was actually working for a zoo! I have such a love for animals and always dreamed of having a job like this since I was a child. I hope to continue the rest of my career working for a zoo.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Photography, sports, traveling and going on adventures with my two Australian Shepherds
"I believe Point Park put me in the position I am in today with landing my dream job. The small class sizes made learning and getting hands-on experiences an easy thing to do. The professors have been in the industry for decades and had personal experiences that they shared with us. This definitely took the education to the next level."
Tell us about the work you do as a communications manager at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
As the communications manager, my main job is to handle all of the zoo’s social media. I am in charge of developing and executing a social media plan that includes zoo awareness and events. My other tasks include developing a communications plan for every zoo campaign and editing the annual zoo calendar.
Why did you choose to transfer to Point Park University?
I transferred to Point Park because I heard about the great School of Communication and the amazing location in Downtown Pittsburgh. Point Park is in the epicenter of Pittsburgh. I knew there would be great networking and internship opportunities offered to Point Park students that would put me ahead of the competition. I was glad to know that I was right. Thanks to my professors, I gained the confidence to network with Pittsburgh professionals and landed great internships. I believe every internship and job I had because of my schooling led me to my dream job of working at a zoo.
In what ways has Point Park put you on the path to reaching your career goals?
I believe Point Park put me in the position I am in today with landing my dream job. The small class sizes made learning and getting hands-on experiences an easy thing to do. The professors have been in the industry for decades and had personal experiences that they shared with us. This definitely took the education to the next level.
What is your favorite Point Park memory?
My favorite Point Park memory, other than my internships, was going to Spain and Portugal for the International Media class. Getting to learn about communications and media in different countries made me a more well-rounded person. That trip was life-changing and I am so happy I had that experience thanks to Point Park!
What advice do you have for prospective students?
My advice for prospective students is to take advantage of everything that is offered to you! The professors have been in the industry for a long time and have so much insight. Constantly ask questions. I also encourage students to apply for as many internships as you can during your time at Point Park. Internships gave me real-life experience and put me in a position to get a job soon after graduating.