Name: Meah Austin
Class Year:2022
Title: Development Associate
Organization Name: The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law
1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?
As a Development Associate at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, I coordinate Direct Mail campaigns, maintain the Center’s database for reporting and strategic planning, conduct prospect donor research, and develop robust outreach initiatives.
2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
My first job out of college was as a Business Development Growth Manager at an influencer-marketing agency that worked on a variety of programs in the public and private sectors. The CEO is a fellow Holy Cross alum, and we connected through a Holy Cross BSU alum I met at the BSU 50th Anniversary (which took place my FIRST year). This job opportunity was quite unexpected because I never considered myself someone who was well versed in marketing and business operations. But one thing I realized is that I was equipped with the work ethic, time management, and thoughtfulness to thrive in any environment. My current role is an industry pivot – being that I work in nonprofit development. Although I am only 1 month in, I am so confident and pleased with my decision to try something new, thanks to the ability to discern I learned at Holy Cross!
3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?
I was involved in the Varsity Women’s Track & Field team, Black Student Union, Women of Color Athletes, Peer Mentor Program, Student Government Association, and Audio-Visual work study.
4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
I was a Psychology and Africana Studies double-major. More than anything, I feel like both of these majors taught me how to write complex concepts in a compelling, engaging, and cohesive way. I know Holy Cross requires a ton of writing, but it truly is an invaluable skill in the workforce (and AI is NOT enough). So much communication and execution happens in writing – being able to be a good writer makes you extremely marketable.
5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
Holy Cross developed my critical thinking and interpersonal skills.
6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?
Utilize the campus resources and alumni connection. These resources are what you pay for! Every connection is a good connection – even if it doesn’t lead to an internship or job offer. Another piece of advice I have for students today is: be patient and don’t compare! What is for you will be for you, and social media doesn’t always tell the full story. It’s a marathon, not a sprint 🙂