Melanie Travis '08
Details
What is your current job?
Marketing Coordinator at Kickstarter
Why did you choose this profession?
I love the energy and pulse of the tech/startup industry, and I am enamored by the arts. Kickstarter is a company at the intersection of these two things, so it's perfectly in line with my passions. I choose marketing because in many ways it's the public face of the company, and a wonderful position to get out into the world to show people why your company (or product) is so great.
What more do you wish to accomplish in your professional career?
I want to rise in my career to be head of a marketing team. I want to be in charge of an entire company's marketing strategy.
Tell us about a decision or change you made that turned out to be a positive career move.
I was working as an independent filmmaker when I decided, relatively on a whim, to look for a day job. I thought this would distract from one of my passions of filmmaking, but instead it's been the most wonderful experience. I can still make short films on the side, and in the meantime I've met so many colorful characters and infinitely broadened my life experience. Not to mention now I'm working for a super cool company and doing what I love every day.
How has Haverford influenced your professional career?
At Haverford I learned, above all else, to be intellectually curious. I also picked up the ability to learn quickly and soak in new experiences. My experience at Haverford has made me a valuable candidate at many different companies. I also admired how many of my fellow students at Haverford could be a science major, or English major, but intensely interested in other aspects of liberal arts. This has influenced how I approach my career -- with great interest in many different areas. This is perhaps what ultimately led me to Kickstarter.