Maggie Vereb
Advertising, Advertising, Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations
Class of 2023
How are you using the skills that you learned at Moody in your current position?
The skills I acquired during my time at the Moody School of Communications at the University of Texas have been pivotal in shaping the way I approach and excel in my current role. The strategic thinking and analytical skills cultivated at Moody have come into play on a daily basis. Analyzing market trends, consumer behavior data, and the competitive landscape requires a critical mindset that was fostered during my studies. This data-driven approach informs our campaign strategies, allowing us to tailor our messaging to align with the unique preferences and needs of our target market. (this mainly came from the business classes we were required to take) The emphasis on collaboration and teamwork which was a core aspect of my education at Moody aligns seamlessly with my role at HP. Leading cross-functional teams and coordinating efforts with colleagues from various departments is second nature, thanks to the collaborative experiences I had during my academic years. The ethical considerations and understanding of communication's societal impact that I gained at Moody resonate deeply with my responsibilities in my position at HP. Ensuring that our campaigns are ethically sound, culturally sensitive, diverse in talent, and contribute positively to the consumer experience reflects the values I cultivated during my education.
Were you in any student organizations?
I was in a UPC sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. I was also in Not On My Campus, which is near and dearly close to me.
What have you learned so far from the real world?
One of the most eye-opening lessons I've gained from my experiences in the real world is that life often doesn't adhere to our meticulously laid-out plans. As much as we may want to predict where we'll be in a year, 3 years, or even 5 years, the twists and turns that life takes can be unexpected and even surprising. I've come to understand that while setting goals and working towards them is crucial, it's equally important to remain open to the possibilities that come our way. I remember how I thought I had my post-graduation plan all figured out – I was set on moving to San Diego to embark on a new chapter. Little did I anticipate the wonderful news that my oldest sister was having a baby, which shifted my priorities and plans in a completely unforeseen direction. This experience taught me that life's journey is an evolving tapestry of opportunities and events, many of which we can't predict. While we can have aspirations and goals that provide us with direction, it's essential to approach our journey with flexibility and adaptability. The unexpected turns might lead to even more fulfilling and meaningful outcomes than we initially envisioned. For instance, I never thought that I would be in a position to buy a car or afford my own apartment – these seemed like distant dreams. Yet, circumstances changed, and I found myself stepping into these responsibilities, realizing that I was capable of achieving more than I had imagined. Perhaps one of the most delightful surprises has been my living situation. I never anticipated that I would be sharing a living space with my two best friends from kindergarten. It's a reminder that life has a way of intertwining our paths in the most unexpected yet beautiful ways. All in all, the lesson I've learned is that while we can't predict every detail of our future, we can set goals, work diligently toward them, and embrace the surprises and opportunities that come our way. Embracing the unknown with an open heart and a willingness to adapt allows us to grow, learn, and discover the extraordinary possibilities that life presents us – often in ways we couldn't have planned for or imagined.
While we can't predict every detail of our future, we can set goals, work diligently toward them, and embrace the surprises and opportunities that come our way. Embracing the unknown with an open heart and a willingness to adapt allows us to grow, learn, and discover the extraordinary possibilities that life presents us – often in ways we couldn't have planned for or imagined.
Were there any words of wisdom from professors that you use at your job today?
Their advice to prioritize networking has become a fundamental aspect of my daily routine and professional approach. In the real world, I've come to recognize that success is not just about what I know, but also about who I know and how effectively I can collaborate and connect with others. Building and nurturing a network allows me to tap into a vast pool of knowledge, experience, and insights that I might not have access to otherwise. Just like my professors emphasized, I've learned that networking isn't just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It's about establishing authentic relationships based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a willingness to support one another. These relationships can lead to collaborative projects, mentorship opportunities, and even unexpected doors opening in terms of career advancement.
What advice do you have for #TEXASMoody students?
For all you #TEXASMoody students out there, I've got a piece of advice that I wish I could have shared with my past self. If I could turn back the clock, I'd tell myself to make the most out of the incredible opportunity to connect with professors and guidance counselors. College isn't just about attending classes and acing exams. It's a unique window of time when you're surrounded by experts, mentors, and people who genuinely want to see you succeed. I'd encourage you to take full advantage of this environment by forging meaningful relationships with your professors and counselors. Engage in conversations beyond coursework – ask about their experiences, seek advice on your career aspirations, and share your own thoughts. You'll be amazed at how much wisdom and insight they have to offer beyond the syllabus. Building connections with your professors and counselors can open up doors you might not even know exist. They can recommend opportunities, provide letters of recommendation, and guide you toward resources that align with your goals. Their support can be a game-changer as you navigate your academic and professional journey.
What do you miss most about Moody College?
Looking back on my time at Moody College, there's one thing that stands out as what I miss most: the vibrant sense of community and the genuine connections I formed with my peers and mentors. Being surrounded by fellow students who were just as passionate about communication and media as I was created an atmosphere of shared excitement and inspiration. The late-night study sessions, lively discussions in the classrooms, and collaborative projects were all experiences that shaped my understanding and love for my chosen field.
Can you talk about your career path?
Back in high school, I was fully immersed in academics, clubs, and extracurriculars. My schedule was quite packed, and I mainly babysat on weekends to make some extra money. When I started my freshman year at Texas, I had the opportunity to play a dual role as a Leasing and Marketing Assistant at The Standard. It was a dynamic experience that gave me insights into both customer interactions and the world of marketing. I held onto this role for about two years, which really shaped my understanding of professional environments. In February 2021, an unexpected turn occurred when my brother-in-law shared a job opportunity he found on the HP careers website. I decided to give it a shot, applying with my resume and responding to some questions online. After successfully passing that initial stage, I was given a chance to present a series of business questions to the marketing directors of HP. I devoted a significant amount of time to preparing for this presentation, and despite my nerves, I managed to impress the directors and secure a summer internship as a North America Marketing Intern. Those three months as an intern were an incredible learning experience. I worked on projects, collaborated with a dynamic team, and honed my skills. After my internship ended, I presented my project findings, and to my immense joy, I received a phone call offering me the opportunity to extend my internship throughout my senior year of undergrad. On top of that, I was also offered a full-time position upon graduation. The relief of having a job lined up after graduation was truly a weight off my shoulders. Now, I'm four months into my full-time remote work experience, and I must say, it's been a fantastic journey. Working with my team has been a joy, and I'm relishing every moment of this new phase in my career.
What classes/professors helped the most?
Senior year's fall semester was quite the ride, especially with that campaigns class! Taking that course was a game changer for sure. We essentially got to step into the shoes of an agency and dive headfirst into the world of real world campaigns. The experience was like a crash course in all things marketing and teamwork. I remember our professors guiding us through every step of the process – from brainstorming creative ideas to developing strategies and executing them. The best part was that it wasn't just about theory; we were actually putting our skills to the test by crafting campaigns from scratch. It was so hands-on and practical, which is what I loved most. Collaboration was at the heart of it all. Working with a team that brought diverse skills and perspectives to the table really mirrored the dynamics of a real agency. I felt like I was in a real-world scenario where the pressure was on, but the excitement of bringing our ideas to life made it all worthwhile.