Ari Berman was able to utilize two degrees from Chapman University’s School of Communication (SCC ’15 and HCOM ’16) to help her in her career. She is currently a Data Consultant in Social Media Strategy at Kaiser Permanente. Below, she shares information about her position and her experience in the School of Communication.

Can you explain what you have done in your career since graduation?

At FleishmanHillard, I synthesized and analyzed global social media data for clients such as Google, YouTube, Kaiser Permanente and Samsung to develop social media and reputation management strategies. I worked with cross-network teams to drive reporting needs (anything from crisis management to campaign and content performance), and worked with clients to develop KPIs and benchmarks for them to track their progress. I worked with Team YouTube, and the TV/Shows team specifically, in Los Angeles to develop insights into how shows perform and how advertising around them performs, where they can improve and how we can benchmark shows against one another.

I am currently a Data Consultant in Social Media Strategy at Kaiser Permanente where I analyze data to prepare monthly national and regional social media reports for Member Services teams, including Performance Improvement, Social Media unit, and the national Contact Center. I develop actionable strategies and insights based on data to address key member pain points across national and regional functions and conduct ad hoc, crisis, and team productivity reporting.

Did you have work or internship experience while at Chapman?

Yes! I worked on campus at the Center for Global Education after an incredible semester studying abroad, and was a Graduate Research Assistant for Professor Jennifer Waldeck. I then got an internship at a boutique public relations/marketing agency in Irvine. This then turned into a job where I worked while earning my graduate degree at Chapman.  

Did your Chapman University education benefit your career?

My education at Chapman pushed me in ways that other schools don’t. Because of my close relationships with professors, I knew what was expected me of me and how to achieve that in almost all of my classes – and when I didn’t, I knew how to appropriately ask for help, goals, deadlines, etc. THAT is the real world. Once I graduated I truly felt prepared both personally and professionally.  

Any advice for current Chapman University students?

Be proactive! Even if you are nervous or feel like you have nothing to say, go to those career fairs, speaking engagements, mock interviews. They are immensely helpful and will prepare you better than any class will. Additionally, reach out to alumni or people on LinkedIn (like myself) that have jobs that interest you. Take them to coffee or find a time that works to speak with them over the phone, and ask them your questions. Don’t be afraid to reach out!