SAEM Grad Kara Sayers Manages Social Media for PLB Sports & Entertainment Alumni Profile

Describe your role at PLB Sports & Entertainment.

I manage our social media, including Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. I work with my colleagues to plan ahead, whether that be social posts, promotional giveaways, research, etc. I also use our social channels to interact with customers and fans of our athletes or entertainers. In addition, before the launch of new products, I reach out to the athletes’ and entertainers’ representatives to coordinate schedules and to ensure they have the proper tags for when they post.

What are some of the coolest or most fulfilling projects or campaigns you have worked on? 

I think the most exciting and fulfilling project I’ve worked on was with JuJu Smith-Schuster for his Jumpin' Juju's Crunch cereal. Our team created a huge marketing campaign around the launch last fall. We had a creative day with JuJu to gather photos and videos. We sent out dozens of influencer boxes to JuJu’s friends and family. It was awesome to see all of our hard work come to fruition when we launched. 

What do you like about your job?

I love our small team of four. The work environment is very flexible, supportive and fun. Working with the world’s greatest athletes and entertainers is the cherry on top of everything I love about my job.

How did Point Park help prepare you for this role?

Point Park gave me resources to succeed in whatever career path I chose, such as networking events, career fairs and a variety of class options. I felt prepared to dive into life after college.

What attracted you to the Sports, Arts & Entertainment Management program?

I was attracted to the SAEM program because I liked how it was a degree with three avenues. I found it very beneficial to learn about three career fields, rather than one, so that I could come out as a more well-rounded individual with knowledge in various fields. 

What are some of your favorite Point Park memories?

I really liked to attend all of the Campus Activities Board events, such as bingo and movie nights, and all of the events in Village Park were great. Also, anytime there was free pizza on campus, I was there!

Your internships included the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Pittsburgh Penguins. What were those experiences like, and how are you applying the knowledge you gained to your current role?

My experiences in my internships were completely different, but both very beneficial in their own ways. At the Riverhounds, I learned how to work and communicate in a group/team setting. This has helped me immensely in my current role, as much of what we do is a group effort. With the Penguins, I learned a ton, but I think my experience working with the players had the biggest impact on me becoming successful in my role at PLBSE.

What are the benefits of living and learning in Downtown Pittsburgh?

While living in Downtown Pittsburgh, I was just a walk away or short drive away from a plethora of opportunities. This made it easier for me to say yes or to explore various opportunities as it was easy to access them.

What should prospective students know about the SAEM program?

I think prospective students should know how important it is to make connections everywhere you go. You never know who could lead you down the path to your dream job. I have found the cliche, “It’s not what you know but who you know,” to be extremely true, especially in the work I do now. 

What career advice do you have for current SAEM students? 

Always be engaged in classes and meetings. It is extremely important to have an open mind. I found it very beneficial to learn about all the things SAEM had to offer, rather than strictly setting my sights on sports. My last piece of advice is to listen. Listen to those around you. You never know what you will gain from various conversations with a variety of different individuals.

Connect with Kara Sayers '20

More About: sports, arts and entertainment management, alumni, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, success story, internships, Pittsburgh, Dubois Area High School