Employer

 San Antonio Zoo

Employer  Website

 http://www.sazoo-aq.org/index.html

Job Title  

 Special Events Coordinator

Class Year and Major

BA Communication and History-2004

Additional education

San Antonio College, School of Visual Arts - Spring 2006

Briefly describe what you do   

I coordinate the San Antonio Zoo's four major fundraising events each year from start to finish, including seeking underwriting and donations, planning logistics, and organizing event-day action.

What other jobs have you had?

• Membership Coordinator, San Antonio Zoo

• Barista, Starbucks Coffee

What are the key skills, abilities, and personal qualities necessary to succeed in this type of work?  

ORGANIZATION, a belief in your mission (absolutely necessary if you are asking for donations), strong follow-through skills, and creativity.

What do you enjoy most about your current position?  

The job is always changing and evolving as the events come and go. Sometimes I am working on boring tax letters, but other days I am choosing decorations and working with restaurants on menu selections. I also have a lot of interaction with a lot of different people.

Most important/valuable lesson or activity in college that impacted your career ?

Working as the Arts and Entertainment Chair on the Trinity Activities Council (now TIGER Council, or Student Planning Board, or something similar to that gave me the opportunity to budget, plan, lead, and execute events in a safe and fun environment.

What advice for someone entering this field?

Diversify your skills. Often the person doing "special events" is also in charge of other important task like marketing or community relations. Keep your talents broad, and do not hesitate if you are asked to work on a project or task that is new and unfamiliar.

Questions?

Email askalumni@trinity.edu
Put the name of the alumni you wish to contact in the subject line, then type your question.