Alumni Profile: Maureen
Assistant director for marketing and patron services, Krannert Center
MM in music performance, class of 1990
When you first came to UIUC did you know for sure what you wanted to do as a major/career?
Yes. I began in music education because I wanted to want to teach. During my college career, I learned that I didn't want to teach. I would have enjoyed performance work, but the careers available were only military; after I reached the point where I could get one of those jobs, I decided that wasn't the path for me. I explored arts management and am still there.
What was one UIUC event, memory, person, class, that made a substantial difference in your career choices?
My mentor Dan Perrino, enrollment in FAA 190, and internships at Krannert Center introduced me to the administrative side of the arts.
What was your first job after you earned your degree?
Ticket office performance supervisor at Krannert Center.
How did you land your first career related job?
Word of mouth
Please list all positions you have held since graduation.
- Ticket office performance supervisor
- Ticket office assistant manager
- Receptionist at Armadillo Salon
- Caterer
- Ticket office manager
- Assistant marketing director
- Marketing director and assistant director of the center
What is your current occupation and how did you come to it?
My title is assistant director for marketing and patron services. I worked up to it, with assistance of the terrific people for whom I work.
What advice would you give to an FAA student who might be interested in your current or past careers?
Be willing to do whatever work is needed and prove yourself that way. Keep studying. Have fun.
What advice can you give an FAA student who is currently undecided about their future career?
Take advantage of shadowing and career exploration—it's just as needed for those who are already working and harder for them to find.