Andy Slaughter

Why did you choose the Public Relations (MS) program?

I've always had a passion for communications, and wasn't sure where my path would lead until I began writing for a downtown newspaper in Minneapolis my senior year of undergrad. It was then that, after an interesting turn of events, I began working as a public relations assistant for my university and ultimately realized that public relations was my passion. After accepting an offer to NYU, I decided to do more research; I spoke with several professors at BU including Dustin Supa and Steve Quigley and ultimately decide to come to BU's MS program because of its elective choices, tight-knit community and collegiate feel. I knew that I'd best thrive in an environment that truly immersed me in school, and BU gave me just that.

How did your time at COM help prepare you for your life post-COM?

My time at COM prepared me for the "real world" in several ways. I led the BU Communicator for the 2015-2016 school year, the internal public relations site for the departments of mass communication, public relations and advertising. Through the leadership of Professor Dorothy Clark, I led a staff of 35-40 students in revamping the site's processes, from editorial content and fundraisers to awareness and better structured promotional content. In my time there, I learned to manage multiple complex relationships, was humbled by the talented students of the college and honed many other skills I apply in my everyday.

Aside from this, I was also a director for several account teams in COM's PRLab. As a director for our award-winning in-house PR agency, this role required leadership in client services and agency operations, in addition to serving as a high-level resource to account teams composed of 20 Account Executives and Account Supervisors.

Through extensive project management, media relations initiatives, digital public relations management and social media monitoring and research, my six account teams provided higher than expected results for clients, including raising $45,000 for the Boston Marathon (Goodwill), revamping an organization's entire digital presence (MA Visitors Industry Council) and tripling sales through public relations tactics (YWCA Cambridge). My clients included Goodwill, MA Visitors Industry Council, Piers Park Sailing Center, YWCA Cambridge, ReferralMob and Entertainment Specialists.

Lastly, through a professor referral, I became an assistant/consultant to Kim Relic, director of strategic initiatives and creative production in COM. This role demanded constant recommendations and campaign executions (both in Boston and from abroad) to changes in internal and external public relations initiatives, social media marketing and analytical reporting. Additionally, it required management of research, social and internal coordinators to help increase ROI for the college's campaigns.

Like many other talented students in COM, all of these experiences challenged me in different ways and allowed me to hone my writing and analytical skills like never before. That, coupled with the relevant classes and supportive professors, truly made the difference and set me up for success post-grad.

What have you been up to since you graduated?

Since graduating from COM, I've bounced around a bit. I finished my courses abroad with 15 other talented students at our BU London campus. There, I interned at a multi-national PR firm, where I dabbled in digital public relations with several financial and consumer brands in the U.K. After London, I moved to NYC for a month and ultimately found a consumer public relations role in Boston that was a great fit at the time. However, shortly after, opportunities arose and I ended up in my current role in NYC working in Burson-Marsteller's Corporate and Financial practice, where I've supported several accounts including Accenture, Web.com and Bank of America.

Can you talk about your current position? How did you choose it? What makes it exciting?

COM taught me that the media sphere is ever-changing, and while it's important to keep those changes in mind, it's equally important to allow yourself time to choose the right opportunity. I'm incredibly happy with my role at Burson-Marsteller as it challenges me every day and allows me to truly immerse myself in my work. When it came to decision time, several professors in COM including Dorothy Clark, Amy Shanler and Justin Joseph, provided different perspectives on my new adventure that ultimately led me to where I am today.

What advice would you give prospective students considering the Public Relations (MS) program?

For new students, I have so much to say in a few words: Get involved. Despite your former alma mater, it's important to make BU your new home. Join as many relevant clubs as you can, take genuine interest in your peers and professors and never be afraid to ask for advice.

What advice would you give to students in the Public Relations (MS) program who will soon graduate?

For graduating students, I ask you to reach beyond your periphery. Think about your long-term goals, continue to foster those key relationships with professors and alumni, and never be afraid to take an entry-level job. Opportunities will continue to grow through your career, but humility is key, above anything.

View Andy's LinkedIn profile here.