SAEM Alumnus Max Kovalchuk '14 is a Manager of Artist Development at 300 Elektra Entertainment

Meet Max Kovalchuk '14

Job Title & Employer: Manager, Artist Development, 300 Elektra Entertainment
Major/Program: Sports, Arts & Entertainment Management
College Activities: SAEM Club, Music Association, men's soccer team
Hometown: Monessen, Pa.; Geibel Catholic High School
Now Living In: New York City

"All of my professors had a positive impact on me. In particular, I reached out to Professor Traversari when I was in high school to schedule time to talk about the music business. That conversation ultimately led to my decision to attend Point Park. Once I was enrolled, he was an incredible mentor and helped guide me through my years at Point Park by always taking time to help me advance my career outside of the classroom."

Max Kovalchuk '14

What have you been up to since graduating from Point Park?

I played in a band for a few years after graduating. Wanting to get back on the business side of the industry, I moved to New York with the goal of finding a position at a record label.

Describe your new role at Elektra and what excites you about it.

On a daily basis, I have the opportunity to work closely with dozens of artists in a variety of genres to help connect fans with their music. That is always what has drawn me to want to work in music.

How did Point Park's SAEM program prepare you for the field?

It gave me the opportunity to connect with professionals in the industry and gain real-world experience while simultaneously learning about the business in the classroom.

What experiences were especially meaningful to you during your time at Point Park?

My first real job in music was working in guest services at Stage AE. That opportunity came together due to Professor Ed Traversari inviting Stage AE staff to speak on campus. The experience of working in that venue set the foundation for my career and taught me countless valuable skills that I still apply to my job every day.

Are there any specific faculty members who had a significant influence on you?

All of my professors had a positive impact on me. In particular, I reached out to Professor Traversari when I was in high school to schedule time to talk about the music business. That conversation ultimately led to my decision to attend Point Park. Once I was enrolled, he was an incredible mentor and helped guide me through my years at Point Park by always taking time to help me advance my career outside of the classroom. When I expressed interest in learning about record labels as a freshman, he connected me with Mark Fritzges, a former Atlantic Records senior vice president of promotion and also a former Point Park adjunct professor. He played a significant role in helping me land my position with Elektra. Professor Traversari and I keep in touch, and I will always consider him a mentor.

What advice do you have for current SAEM students?

Use your resources and reframe nervous energy as excitement when you have a new opportunity. You have an incredible wealth of knowledge and connections through your professors. Once you lean in and actively show your career interest, you'll be able to unlock the opportunities that are right in front of you.

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

Being in a city on your own helps you discover who you are. If you're doing that in an environment with people pursuing that same thing, it starts to put into perspective what you need to do to ultimately have the career you want. Pittsburgh is also an incredible city culturally, and there is always a new experience you can learn from. You just have to make an effort to look and approach everything with an open mind.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Be curious and don't be afraid of new experiences, whether it's in your education, career or personal life.

SAEM Alumnus Max Kovalchuk '14 is a Manager of Artist Development at 300 Elektra Entertainment Alumni Profile