Kathleen Connelly (Kat Conn)
Major: Double major; Communication & Human Rights Minor: International Studies
Class standing: Junior
What are some on-campus jobs you’ve had that have prepared you for what you want to do after graduation?
I’m part of the Center for Career Development as the Social Media Assistant, University Communications doing Social Media and Special Projects, the Office of Involvement & Leadership Programs as an Event Photographer, and Community Outreach as a Photo Journalist. They’ve all given me really practical experience. Communication is a major that you learn more in an applied setting than a theory-based setting and it really gives you applicable skills for the professional world.
How did you find them?
For most of them I just used UConn’s student job site. I found one on the Daily Digest and one was just pure luck after working on a creative project!
What interests you about social media?
It’s very customizable. Especially for me, it’s a great way to post updates about my photography and allows me to share important things in life with others.
How have you used social media to develop your own personal brand?
Well, everything is linked with my professional portfolio through my personal website and all of my future employers will be able to see everything I post, so I always try to keep that in mind. Maintaining a social media presence is important for career success, which is why I always post things that are professional.
Why did you make your own personal website?
To present my portfolio in a clean and professional way. Anyone looking to go into a creative job market should have a professional portfolio to reference for future employers. I’m really happy with it!
How has your internship helped prepare you for the future?
I was a digital engagement intern in Brooklyn, New York. I wanted to find practical experience outside of UConn, and this helped me develop my communication and digital media skills.
What are your post-grad plans?
Ideally, I’d like to be a photo journalist for either a creative or non-profit company.
How have you been able to manage your time?
Two words: Google Calendar. It’s a great tool and keeps track of everything for me. It’s also important to remember that you’re still a human being; you still need to eat, sleep, exercise, etc. Remember that you can’t do everything and there’s always going to be tomorrow to finish what couldn’t get done today.
Any advice you can give to your fellow students based on your own experiences?
A lot of times things won’t go as planned. You won’t always get the position/job you wanted, but you can’t let it discourage you from doing or finding something else. Opportunities are all around.
Check out Kat’s website: katconn.us
