Introduction
In this blog post, we will dive into the success story of Ellie Galinas, a San Diego State University (SDSU) alumna who has made a name for herself in the social media marketing industry. We will explore her journey as a student at SDSU, her involvement in campus organizations, and how those experiences have shaped her career. Let’s take a closer look at Ellie’s achievements and the valuable lessons she has learned along the way.
Deciding to Attend SDSU
Ellie Galinas hails from Cleveland, OH and moved to San Diego in 2015 after finishing high school at Rancho Bernardo HS. When it came time to choose a college, Ellie knew she wasn’t ready to leave San Diego just yet. She recognized the excellent education SDSU had to offer compared to other universities she was accepted into. Ellie’s decision to attend SDSU was driven by her desire to continue her education in a city she loved. Fast forward to today, Ellie resides in New York, NY, working as an Organic Social Media Account Manager at Power Digital.
Campus Involvement and Networking
Ellie understood the value of getting involved early on in her college journey. She joined various student organizations and made it a priority to explore her interests outside of her major. One of the organizations she was heavily involved in was Pi Beta Phi, a sorority that provided her with a supportive community and lifelong friendships.
However, it was the American Marketing Association (AMA) that played a pivotal role in shaping Ellie’s journey both at SDSU and beyond. She served in multiple leadership positions within AMA, including Social Media Manager, Graphic Designer, and Vice President of Marketing. Through her involvement in AMA, Ellie not only gained valuable skills but also networked with professionals from her field of study. It was through AMA that Ellie was introduced to her current company and other marketing agencies, setting her on the path to success in the business world.
The Power Digital Experience
Ellie’s journey didn’t stop at graduation. During her senior year at SDSU, she secured an internship at Power Digital, a leading digital marketing agency. Starting as an intern, Ellie demonstrated her skills and commitment to her craft, which led to her being brought on as a part-time employee. Eventually, she transitioned into a full-time role as an Organic Social Media Strategist.
Currently, Ellie holds the position of Account Manager at Power Digital. Her responsibilities include being the main point of contact between clients and her internal team. She ensures that deliverables are met and maintains a strong partnership with clients. Additionally, Ellie owns content strategy on most of her accounts, analyzing trends and platform updates to optimize her clients’ social media presence. Her role also involves collaboration with a social designer to bring creative ideas to life.
Meaningful Projects and Classes at SDSU
One standout class during Ellie’s time at SDSU was Internet & Interactive Marketing (MKTG 476) with Professor Isa Grimes. This class, specifically tailored to Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) majors, had a profound impact on Ellie. Professor Grimes’s real-world approach through case studies and examples helped prepare Ellie for the challenges she would face in her post-graduate career.
Furthermore, Ellie had the opportunity to study abroad in Venice, Italy, during February and March of 2020. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, her study abroad experience was cut short. Nevertheless, this experience allowed Ellie to broaden her horizons and gain cultural insights that would continue to shape her perspective on both personal and professional levels.
Pursuing Passions Outside of Work
When Ellie is not busy working, she enjoys indulging in various hobbies and interests. She is an avid reader, always looking to explore new books and authors. Additionally, Ellie loves to travel, immersing herself in different cultures and discovering hidden gems around the world. Living in Manhattan, she takes advantage of the vibrant city by exploring its coffee spots, bookstores, and shops. Ellie’s passion for food is also evident, as she enjoys trying out different restaurants and dishes, often discovering recommendations through platforms like TikTok.
Conclusion
Ellie Galinas’s journey from SDSU student to Organic Social Media Account Manager at Power Digital exemplifies the importance of getting involved on campus and exploring one’s passions. Her engagement in student organizations, particularly the American Marketing Association, paved the way for professional growth and networking opportunities. Ellie’s valuable experiences at SDSU, combined with her dedication and expertise, have propelled her to success in the ever-evolving social media marketing industry.
If you’re an SDSU student aspiring to succeed after graduation, take a page from Ellie’s book. Get involved early, explore your interests, and embrace opportunities to network with professionals in your field of study. Emphasize both coursework and campus involvement to create a well-rounded college experience that sets you up for a successful future.
Tags: SDSU, social media marketing, campus involvement, professional development
[Reference Link](!https://business.sdsu.edu/news/2023/04/alumna-shines-in-social-media-marketing-industry)