Name: Rachel Maleady

Age: 25

College & Majors/Minors: Major: Communications with a Concentration in Public Relations, Minor: Business

Current Location: New Jersey

Current Form of Employment: SEO Analyst at a higher education company

Where do you work and what is your current position?

I currently work at a higher education company as an SEO Analyst. In this role, I get to create and apply various SEO and online marketing strategies to my company's 5+ properties. This role allows me to work in all different areas including content promotion, content strategy, keyword research, link building and more.

What was your first job?

My first job out of college was working as a SEO Copywriter and Online Marketing Specialist at a small marketing firm near my hometown. I focused more on the writing side of SEO, which I do less of at my current role. To fill that writing "void," I am a freelance copywriter and also run my own lifestyle blog.

What was another job that was important in your career?

Honestly my blog, although not technically a "job," has opened so many doors for me. I am referred to many of my freelance clients through my blog, and it's always a great talking point. I can't stress enough how my blog has helped form my career.

What did you do in college to prepare for your post-grad life?

I researched companies in my area long before I graduated, hoping to spot open positions or make connections when graduation time came. I ended up transitioning from PR to more SEO/online marketing and copywriting though, so most of that didn't help. I would suggest studying and trying out all different areas of your major to see what you really like and don't like.

What is your advice for students and graduates with an English degree?

I would definitely say to look into digital. Print media is dying and most magazine jobs now are terrible (long hours, intern-like tasks, no pay), so prepare yourself for other areas of writing. Start your own blog. Put together an online writing portfolio.