#WhatsYourStoryUMassD CCB: Real projects with real clients fuels this marketing major’s future

Samantha Vanasse ’21, from Plymouth, MA, has already done marketing research for real clients. “I am working on a project for BayCoast Bank through the Center for Market Research at UMass Dartmouth,” she said. “And I work on campus for the University Marketing department, posting the weekly student update to Instagram and working with the Chancellor to help him connect with students.” She’s also working on the University’s social media campaign to promote the celebration of the University’s 125^th anniversary.

In classes I have professors who work in marketing professionally and keep us up-to-date with what’s going on in the field

Samantha says these projects energize her and help her build a network of colleagues. “In classes, I have professors who work in marketing professionally and keep us up-to-date with what’s going on in the field,” she said. “And I’m surrounded with students who share information and opportunities with each other and spur each other on. I expect these are people who will be part of my network in the future.” 

Why does this matter? Because teamwork matters, she said. “It is very easy to meet others and get ideas about my career. Right now, I am studying for my real estate license. In one of my classes, I started a team to develop a business in flipping houses. Several others were interested in that, and we have learned a lot from each other.” 

She chose UMass Dartmouth for that community, but also for its credentials. “The Charlton College of Business accreditation by AACSB International mattered to me. The reviews of the business school were also very important.” 

Samantha is building her contacts and skills for whatever career path she takes. “I am deciding between real estate and marketing research,” she said. “And at UMass Dartmouth, I get to try both!”