Alumin Spotlight: Mateo Aguirre

    The online semester has allowed PRSSA ISU Chapter to connect virtually with guest speakers from different parts of the country.
    Mateo Aguirre graduated from Illinois State in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations. Upon graduation, Mateo had a job offer lined up after working with a company for an assignment in COM 337-Public Relation Campaigns. He moved to Los Angeles where he began his career working with the company and he has since then continued working with social media in showcasing the entertainment world, holding different job titles with every opportunity that emerged.  
     He shared his application process, working with different companies and his most memorable moments when working in the entertainment industry. Although internships are not required, they do not hurt. Being able to get a grasp of the work force can better prepare you post-graduation. The biggest difference between his internship in Milwaukee with a local tv station and his work in California, is the environment. L.A being more liberal and allowing people to openly express themselves is a drastic change from conservative Wisconsin.
    When searching for job positions, each application will ask for different requirements. The biggest support for applicants will be their portfolio. A compliance of all the work they completed while in college. In learning about customer service beforehand, you grasp the needs and wants of people. You see patterns and create content towards those groups.
     The biggest pro he could give for working in the entertainment industry? The flexibility. Well, aside from meeting and working with notable celebrities. From showing Heidi Klum how to use Instagram filters to coming across Jennifer Lopez. His favorite production, "Making It”, has allowed him to be part of the show production. From attending the promo shoot, to getting close to the people on stage. All while ensuring to implement a diversity alliance and embracing it through the workplace.  
      With his extensive social media experience, aligning yourself with a company with similar views makes a big difference in the end. Do not be harsh on yourself and allow yourself to learn from past mistakes.
      In his time with PRSSA, Mateo acknowledged that networking was one of the most significant steps in self-development. Being able to chat people up and forming connections will serve you in the future. Whether it is for a future job or a good friendship, those relationship will last and bring new opportunities. The friendship he made while in his two years with PRSSA are stronger than ever. The people you meet in PRSSA and conventions remain with you and you learn from them and they from you.
      Mateo suggests “to not be afraid to take risks because chances are, they will work out in the end… Even if it does not pay off in the exact moment. It will lead you to where you exactly where need to be.”
 
By: Yasmin Carrillo