M.A. Alumni Profile: Frank Sottile, Marketing Communications Manager, Fourth Economy Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Meet Frank Sottile
Job title: Marketing Communications Manager
Employer: Fourth Economy Consulting
Degree earned at Point Park: M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication, 2014
Undergraduate degree earned: B.A. in General Fine Arts, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 1993
Hometown: Indiana, Pa.
Now living in: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Hobbies/interests: Branding/advertising, sports, music and cooking
Twitter: @FrankSottilePGH
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franksottile
Why did you choose Point Park for graduate school?
I had researched a few other schools in the area, but right from my initial contact Point Park made me feel welcome. I was looking for an education that would complement my previous career in graphic design and the M.A. in journalism and mass communication program was a perfect fit. It gave me the necessary skill upgrades I was looking for - especially in terms of technology, writing and management - and introduced me to some new career directions I had never contemplated before.
The best thing about the M.A. in journalism and mass communication program was that it really focused on the areas that I had been lacking for the modern workplace. I was able to tailor the program to meet specific goals I had in mind to improve my skill sets. Not only were the core courses extremely relevant to my situation, the variety of electives was extensive, and each one addressed an area I needed to add to my knowledge base. I am also grateful for the opportunities to present my work both at Point Park and potentially elsewhere at conferences with the support of my professors.
What are some of your key responsibilities at Fourth Economy Consulting?
I am primarily tasked with managing, maintaining and updating several websites, both that of my own company as well as several others we manage for regional initiatives and other organizations. I also do a fair amount of graphic design work, email and social media marketing and organizing proposals to pursue new projects for the firm.
What's a typical day like for you?
Well, I'm not sure there is such a thing, but it's always fast-paced. I'd say it's a nice combination of planned projects with a few elements of surprise thrown in for fun. Very rarely is there a day that I don't learn something new.
What was it like taking classes in Downtown Pittsburgh?
I couldn't have asked for a better location in Downtown Pittsburgh. I was able to get to campus whether I commuted by car, or took the bus or the T. Since nearly all of my courses were in the evenings I had plenty of ways to get there - and back home - easily.
What is one of your favorite Point Park memories?
It's difficult to choose just one. I've made so many friends while I was studying at Point Park as well as great personal connections among my professors. I think those personal interactions are among my favorite memories.
What are your career goals?
I'd definitely like to become a creative director or communications director at some point, and continue to progress in my current marketing field. I also have become interested in teaching as well.
Anything else you would like to add?
Everyone at Point Park was focused on removing obstacles to help me thrive in my return to school, and everyone I came into contact with from the enrollment staff, my advisor and professors were all genuinely interested in my success.
Photos by Victoria A. Mikula, sophomore photojournalism major