ABOUT MCKENNA DAY
Are you committed to lifelong learning? I'm a graduate from Virginia Commonwealth University, and I'm a passionate advocate in the pursuit of lifelong learning and communications. I strongly believe in what my grandfather, a professor of twenty years, once said, “Lifelong learning is reality,” and “I will do it, even if it costs me to do it. It is worth it,” he said.
My formal education focused on Public Relations with a minor in Psychology. I was fortunate to have landed my first summer internship as the content marketing intern for a higher education software development company called Ellucian. The company’s values aligned perfectly with my zeal for higher education and lifelong learning.
Up until college, receiving a quality education was a given for me. It wasn’t until my access to college was cut off that I realized how much I'd been taking my education for granted. As a result of my life-changing personal experiences combined with my career experience at Ellucian, my appreciation and passion for higher education blossomed.
Before VCU, I had attended Boston University. However, a financial crisis reluctantly prompted my return home to attend Northern Virginia Community College for the time being. I have persevered in pursuing my educational goals despite the discouraging obstacles. Working at a restaurant for financial support unexpectedly led to greatly strengthening my relationship skills and developing a strong work ethic.
I made my mark at VCU by joining student organizations, including PRSSA. During my senior year, I was honored to have been elected as President of PRSSA at my university. In this role, I was given the chance to develop my interpersonal skills and leadership abilities while also helping other aspiring PR professionals.
In my second internship, I was selected as the PR intern for a digital marketing and brand management agency, known as REQ. The remote experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone, challenging me to be flexible in a virtual workplace during the pandemic. The experience provided me with the opportunity to pitch to clients and taught me how to cater to client needs.
In my Agency course senior year, I was able to hone my PR skills working for a nonprofit, the Greater Richmond Bar Foundation (GRBF). The GRBF is a nonprofit focused on providing pro bono work to those who cannot afford services. The main focus of the foundation is providing relief to those facing the eviction crisis in the greater Richmond area. I created a strategic campaign book for the client, which I have included under the "Writing" tab above.
My first job experience outside of college was working as the Communications Coordinator for Clark Construction. In this role, I gained practice building a brand, planning corporate events, using InDesign and Adobe Photoshop as well as managing social media accounts for a large and reputable company. While my interests don't lay in construction, it was a great learning experience.
I currently work part-time remote as the Marketing Coordinator for a start company, called Talent Engines. My responsibilities include creating content and managing multiple websites and social media accounts, writing article and creating content. I often work autonomously and research to teach myself new tools, software or tactics. It has really pushed me to grow and go further outside of my comfort zone.
Next, I am eager to find a full-time role, preferably in B2C, where I am passionate about the company and its products/services. A work environment where I can put my skills to the test while working alongside experienced professionals. I have a true passion for digital communications, particularly brand storytelling and creating genuine connections with people.