2013 M.A./M.B.A. Alumna is Director of Marketing and Development, Life'sWork of Western PA Friday, March 27, 2015
Meet Tasha Pokrzywa
Job title: Director of Marketing and Development
Employer: Life'sWork of Western PA
Degrees earned: M.A./M.B.A, Point Park University, 2013; B.A. in English, West Virginia University, 2003
Hometown: Clarksburg, W.Va.
Now living in: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High school: Liberty High School
Hobbies/interests: Spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, making things with my hands and reading
LinkedIn: Tasha Pokrzywa
What are your key responsibilities at your job?
Special event planning, fundraising, public relations, grant writing and digital and print media.
How has your M.A./M.B.A. degree given you a competitive advantage in the job market?
It has opened the door for me in a lot of ways for jobs I wouldn't have tried for in the past. I started here as a marketing assistant and have moved up to a director. I couldn't have done that without my education.
Why did you choose to attend Point Park for graduate school?
I moved around a lot after undergrad and found myself not only wanting to be back in school to further my education but also closer to home in a place I loved. Pittsburgh was always a close place to visit with my family and I have always thought it was a beautiful city with plenty to do. I came across Point Park University and really liked the idea of the dual program and the ability to earn both degrees while working full time.
Tell us about your professors in the M.A./M.B.A. program.
I had a lot of very inspiring and memorable professors in the M.A. and M.B.A. program. They love what they do and it shows. Their main goal is your success. I am especially grateful to Tatyana Dumova, Ph.D., for all of her support and encouragement. I had the opportunity to present my research project under her direction.
What was it like going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh?
It was exciting to be roaming around the streets from class to the library in the evenings after work. The campus is small enough not to get lost and being in Downtown Pittsburgh provides a unique feeling.
What is one of your favorite memories as graduate student?
Graduation day and graduating with both degrees, it wasn't easy getting through while working but with the support of family and friends I was able to do that. I am forever grateful to those around me while I finished the programs.
What are your career goals?
I plan to stay in nonprofit and who knows what is next for me right now. I am very happy in my position and want to stay here and make the most of this experience. It feels so good to know that the work we are doing is helping those who need it most.
More About: alumni, Downtown Pittsburgh, M.A./M.B.A., graduate programs