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Pictured is B.A. in photojournalism alumnae Natalie Orio. Photo | Amie Adkins


Meet Natalie (Urban) Orio

Degree earned: B.A. in photojournalism, 2006
Hometown: Latrobe, Pa.
Now living in: Nashville, Tenn.
Current job: Media Client Services Manager at cj Advertising and a freelance photographer
Hobbies/interests: Photography, music, traveling

Why did you choose to attend Point Park?

I chose Point Park because of its hands-on approach to learning and the small class sizes. I loved that the School of Communication faculty still work in their respective fields. The real-world application that they bring to the classroom is unparalleled. I also loved the Downtown Pittsburgh location and the city life was something I wanted to experience. The city really is your campus.

How did Point Park prepare you for your career?

I would not be where I am today without Point Park. The flexibility that they offer to custom build your learning experience allowed me to gain marketing and advertising knowledge, even though my major was photojournalism. It was because of one of my marketing professors that I was able to gain my first marketing internship, which led me to where I am today.

What are your current job responsibilities?

I act as the point person for clients and the client services department regarding day-to-day media issues. I represent cj Advertising's media department on client conference calls and visits. I also work with the director of media services to understand and analyze client strategies and data.

What were some of your favorite experiences as a student?

I adored my time at Point Park and the friends that I made. I loved living in the city and going on adventures with my friends. I am also so glad that I decided to be a part of the Campus Life staff. It allowed me to meet so many wonderful people and to build strong friendships that I treasure to this day.

One of the most notable experiences of my college career, as well as my entire life, happened the night before my college graduation. My husband proposed to me outside of my dorm room in Lawrence Hall. I couldn't have asked for a better way to end my time at Point Park. It will always have a special place in my heart for so many reasons.

Why would you recommend the School of Communication to a prospective student?

The faculty is the biggest reason - hands down! They really care about you and your success. The small class sizes allowed for so much personal attention. I owe a lot to them and to Point Park as a whole.

Anything else you would like to add?

I also work as a freelance photographer focused on families, country musicians and events. I still love taking pictures and am so thankful for what I learned from my professors. I loved getting to work in the black and white dark room when I was at Point Park. Even though I shoot digitally now, there is nothing like watching your images appear in the solution, under the red lights in a dark room. It's like magic. I miss that.

Photo by Amie Adkins

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