Get to know our account coordinator in the communications management department, Abby Okeson
I have really enjoyed my time at Hirons so far! Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful when it comes to learning the ways of the office and how to do projects. I feel as though I have learned as much in one month here as I have in a whole semester or year at school. It’s been so exciting seeing the concepts and tools that I have been taught in the classroom come to life in conversations with clients. I have learned lots of new information about creative and media while still practicing public relations. Learning about the creative process is not always available at other agencies and is unique to Hirons. And that’s one of my favorite things about being a part of the Hirons team!
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN THE INDUSTRY?
My sister studied communications in college and took different specialty classes like photography and lots of writing. I knew I liked writing and working with people. Once I got to IU, I naturally gravitated towards media courses. I loved being in the Media School at IU because of the wide array of classes I could take and there were many different organizations to get involved with – I was able to have great internships and now a great job because of the Media School!
WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOLS OF THE TRADE?
I would say writing for sure!! I had a professor that always said the three skills you need for PR are writing, writing and writing. Also, I would say patience for working with different personalities, willingness to try new things and strong organization skills.
OUTSIDE OF THE OFFICE, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HOBBIES OR PASSIONS?
I enjoy walking and playing tennis, especially after a long day of sitting! I love reading and watching or attending sporting events. Also, I am excited to try to new recipes and cook fun meals now that I have my own kitchen!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF DAY?
This probably sounds cliché but golden hour until sunset! It’s such a beautiful time of day and it always seems to amaze me no matter where I am whether its at home, at the beach or in the city watching the sun reflect off the windows of buildings and then the sun set behind the skyline.
WHAT IS THE MOST MEANINGFUL PART OF YOUR JOB?
Being able to help people! I have always been service oriented so being able to assist with crafting a message and reaching the people our clients care for is important to me.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
My first job was working at Marshalls and it was dangerous because I could also spend my whole paycheck there.
WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU’RE PROUD OF, PERSONALLY OR PROFESSIONALLY?
I was never great with science throughout school, but I was really proud of myself for completing my psychology minor (my second minor!). Even though it’s not biology or chemistry, it’s a very different way of learning for me but I loved my classes and professors.
WHAT’S YOUR MOST MEMORABLE VACATION?
Most definitely my trip to London and Rome with my mom a few summers ago! It was my first time to Europe and saw so many historical places and my favorite part (since I love sports) was going to tour the Wimbledon courts.
WHAT’S ONE THING YOU EVERY DAY AND CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT?
Coffee!!! And I probably drink more coffee than I should.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF WORKING AT HIRONS?
Without a doubt the people who work at Hirons make it great! Even though I have only been here a little over a month, everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. I have surprised myself with how much I have learned in the past month because I have felt comfortable asking questions to better understand a client or project. Also, the diversity of the clients we work with – I love that we help so many local companies helping make Indiana a great state, but their work varies meaning I am always learning!
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