Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school? 

I’m originally from Toronto, Canada, and have always been curious about why people connect so strongly with certain brands, stories, and experiences. Before enrolling in graduate school, I worked in a management and marketing role at a hockey training facility — about as Canadian as it gets — where I oversaw operations and led marketing initiatives. That experience solidified my interest in how audiences engage with brands and how strategic communication can shape perception, loyalty, and behavior. 

I earned my Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, majoring in psychology with a minor in marketing. I have always been interested in human behavior and decision-making, particularly in consumer contexts. Studying psychology gave me a strong foundation in understanding motivation, identity, and influence, while my marketing coursework allowed me to apply those insights in practical, creative ways. As someone who is also a self-professed consumer and interested in advertising, the intersection of these two disciplines felt like a natural fit and continues to shape how I approach communication strategy today. 

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg? 

I first learned about USC Annenberg’s graduate programs through a Canadian friend who was enrolled in the program and spoke highly of the faculty and the professional opportunities he gained during his time at USC. At the time, I was considering graduate school but hadn’t fully committed to a specific path, as I was still weighing a decision to pursue psychology further. However, the other half of me knew I wanted to work in film and television, ideally on the marketing and audience strategy side of the industry. Given Los Angeles’ position at the center of the global entertainment industry, USC Annenberg stood out as the most practical and relevant program for my goals. The opportunity to study entertainment marketing in such close proximity to the industry itself ultimately made the decision clear, plus the California weather was an added bonus! 

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program? 

What I’ve enjoyed most about the program is how relevant and current the coursework is, especially in relation to the career path I want to pursue. For the first time, I am taking classes that really align with the career path I want to pursue, taught by professors who are actively shaping or have shaped the industries we study. One highlight has been taking International Entertainment Marketing with Ted Skidmore, where I developed a full marketing pitch for The Super Mario Bros. Movie in Japan. Learning and receiving feedback from Professor Skidmore, who has direct experience in global film marketing, made the project especially meaningful. 

The networking opportunities at USC have been another highlight, often coming through conversations with alumni and industry professionals who are genuinely willing to share their time and experiences. Those connections, paired with the practicality of the coursework, have helped clarify and strengthen my interest in entertainment marketing. I’m really looking forward to continuing to learn, meet new people, and see where the rest of my time at USC takes me!