Abby Mathieu Lands Job as Public Relations Manager at Blender, Inc. Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Meet Abby Mathieu
Job title and employer: Public Relations Manager, Blender, Inc.
Degree earned at Point Park: B.A. in public relations and advertising and journalism, May 2014
Hometown: Wheeling, W.Va.
High school: Wheeling Park High School
Now living in: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Scholarship: Presidential Scholarship
College activities: Pioneer Experience, Student Life, Campus Activities Board and The Globe
Hobbies/interests: Running, softball, musicals, reading, Netflix binge-watching, and my dog, Sassy
LinkedIn: Abby Mathieu
Twitter: @abs_math
Favorite quote: "We read to know we're not alone." - CS Lewis
How did you land your job at Blender?
During my senior year at Point Park, I did some freelance work with Blender. I got connected with them through my former professor from Point Park, Chris Hays, who is now vice president and director of strategy at Blender. After graduating, I moved to Columbus, Ohio, for a job at a small agency. I kept in touch with Chris over the year and expressed to her I was planning on moving back to Pittsburgh this year. It turned out, Blender was looking to bring on a new team member right around the time I was planning my move! I was so excited to work with this group of people again. It's an awesome company doing some great work for the Pittsburgh community.
What are your key responsibilities as a public relations manager?
As public relations manager, I am kind of the go-to part of our team for any public relations inquiries. I assist with numerous writing projects, including press releases, media advisories and pitches. I'm constantly working to develop and cultivate relationships with the Pittsburgh media and help our clients prepare for various media interviews and appearances. We all wear a lot of hats here at Blender, and work as a team to make everything come together.
What factors influenced your decision to attend Point Park for your major?
When I began my college search, I wasn't interested in the typical large university. I discovered Point Park after looking into schools in the Pittsburgh area, knowing I wanted to move to the city. After learning more about the strong communications program and taking a tour of the campus, I was sold. The Boulevard of the Allies still feels like home to me.
How did your Point Park experience prepare you for your career?
Being in the heart of the city truly helped me dive into the communications industry. I was able to intern at so many different places, including The Andy Warhol Museum, the Pittsburgh International Airport and Elias-Savion Public Relations. These internships and the assistance from Point Park faculty and staff allowed me to figure out exactly what I wanted to do and how to get there.
What are your career goals?
Ultimately, I would love to be the PR person for a nonprofit organization (preferably a dog shelter/rescue). Blender represents a variety of really awesome nonprofits, and I'm enjoying the work we're doing and progress we're making.
What advice do you have for a prospective student?
Take advantage of everything Point Park has to offer. Things will not be handed to you, but if you work hard, you will graduate with impressive talents and experiences, which is exactly what appeals to potential employers.