SAEM Alumna Mara Meyer Works for Misra Records Alumni Profile

Why did you choose Point Park University?

I transferred to Point Park three years into my college experience. I had dreams of becoming a music photographer and decided to pursue photography originally. After a few years, I realized my school at the time would not be able to give me the music education I desired. Being from Pittsburgh, I stumbled upon Point Park’s sports, arts and entertainment management program and knew it was the right fit immediately. Seeing the opportunities ahead of me, my dreams only grew when I entered the program.

What attracted you to the SAEM program?

The SAEM program prepares students for opportunities to work for the best music employers and helps students grow a network and develop skills in a variety of directions. The program focuses on everything I was interested in in the music world from record labels to touring and more. 

In what ways did the Rowland School of Business faculty and classes impact you?

If it weren't for Point Park's amazing professors, especially in the SAEM program, I don’t believe I would be on the path I am today. They are the most supportive group of people that truly want to help you reach your full potential and push you to succeed. Their classes taught me necessary skills to build my own brand.

What is Misra Records, and what does your role entail?

Misra Records is a Pittsburgh-based independent record label. The label has been around for over 20 years and has worked with artists from around the world in a variety of genres. As social media coordinator, I manage Misra’s social accounts to promote our artists' work. I also act as manager, General Manager Jeff Betten’s "right hand," and I help with any work from coordinating co-writing sessions to helping a variety of bands with promotion tactics and even creating some websites for the artists. My duties do not stop there as I am also folk band Buffalo Rose's assistant manager. With this position, I do a variety of tasks from pitching their songs to playlists to researching media tactics and more.

How did your undergraduate experience prepare you for professional success?

I would have never even known of the opportunity to intern for Misra without the weekly email alerts from Professor Robert Derda. Every class I took I felt built up to this job. Professor Ed Traversari taught me the ins and outs of the industry in his music classes, while Dr. Kendra Ross solidified my desire to work at a record label.

What are your fondest Point Park memories?

I absolutely loved my entertainment-focused classes. I don’t believe I ever truly got upset when a class ended until I attended Point Park. Pioneer Records with Dr. Ross was an amazing class that I was able to experience toward the end of my studies. That's when I saw my desire to work with a record label grow. Our classes were more of a conversation that I learned so much from and did not want to end.

What career advice do you have for prospective SAEM students?

Take a risk. Go try out an internship and learn all that you can. Something you didn’t know you wanted to do in the beginning can become your new dream. Take the time to lean on your professors because they will encourage you and help you to make your dreams a reality.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I am very grateful for my time at Point Park. I want to sincerely thank my professors for everything they’ve done for me: Ed Traversari, Kendra Ross, Bob Derda, Paige Beal, Teresa Gregory and Steve Tanzilli. I hope to make you all proud!

Connect with Mara Meyer '20

More About: faculty, success story, Baldwin High School, alumni, transfer, sports, arts and entertainment management, Rowland School of Business