#PittsburghMe: Meet Maggie McCauley, Broadcast Reporting and Public Relations / Advertising Major

Meet Maggie McCauley

Majors/Programs: Broadcast Reporting, Public Relations & Advertising
Graduation: May 2017
Scholarships: Trustee, School of Communication
Hometown: New Bethlehem, Pa.
High School: Redbank Valley High School
Dream Job: Television personality on the Travel Channel or HGTV

"I have completed a total of seven internships during my time at Point Park, with the last one turning into a job offer. I didn't wait until my junior year to start looking for opportunities. I started freshman year."

Maggie McCauley

Why did you choose Point Park University?

I chose Point Park for the communication program, the Downtown location and the amazing professors who are still working in the industry. After attending Point Park's high school media workshop the summer before my senior year of high school, I knew it was the perfect fit for me. Since arriving on campus, I've had easy access to opportunities every single day!

Tell us about your internship experiences.

I have completed a total of seven internships during my time at Point Park, with the last one turning into a job offer. I didn't wait until my junior year to start looking for opportunities. I started freshman year.

I've interned for the National Aviary, WQED, YPWE, the Pittsburgh Marathon, Sewickley Academy, Point Park University (woot, woot!) and WHIRL Magazine, where I was hired as an editorial assistant before graduating. Hiring managers were impressed by my drive, initiative, passion and enthusiasm. Through my various experiences and skills learned at Point Park, I know that I'm very marketable for a variety of career paths.

Do you have a favorite Pittsburgh sports team?

I'm not a huge sports fan, but living in Pittsburgh makes you a fan! I prefer the social aspect of going to games. I'm also very involved in the Pittsburgh events and charity scene, and sports is a huge part of that.

How are you involved on campus?

I've been involved with quite a few clubs on campus over the years, but this year I chose to set my focus on Point Park's Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and American Advertising Federation (AdFed) chapters. I'm president of the PRSSA on campus. I'm responsible for coordinating communication visits, guest speakers, conference attendance and other professional development opportunities for our members. We get to do exclusive activities and sessions to boost our presence and skill set in the communication industry!

What's the best part about spring in Pittsburgh?

I love seeing the city come alive once the snow is over and I love warm weather! I love grabbing lunch al fresco and strolling down the streets of Lawrenceville or Shadyside going in and out of the shops with a few girlfriends. I'm also really into Pure Barre, so the spring weather means pop-up classes in various parks, stadiums and other outdoor locations.

How has Point Park prepared you for your career?

I'm so ready! I feel as though I've accomplished everything I set out to do (and more) in the past four years. I'm confident and excited for a new adventure. I might not feel this way had I attended another university, but Point Park provided me with all of the tools I'll need in my real-world toolbox.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

Take advantage of the resources that we have on campus - from borrowing textbooks from EZ Borrow in the library (save that coffee money!) to meeting with a counselor in career development for a resume review and interview tips. All of the professional staff members want you to succeed, so use them to your advantage! Also, make a plan for yourself. Where do you see yourself in four years? Write down the steps you need to accomplish those goals and make them happen!

#PittsburghMe: Meet Maggie McCauley, Broadcast Reporting and Public Relations / Advertising Major Student Profile