Hard Work Pays Off, with Paige Harootunian ‘20

By Spencer Friedman ‘22

This class of 2020 alumna remained focused on her work over quarantine. She used her free time to enhance her public relations skills, and she now helps nonprofits full-time. 

Why UMD?

Paige Harootunian ‘20 of Madison, NJ, chose the University of Maryland because the school has everything she could have asked for from her college. As a communication major with a minor in Spanish and business analytics, she appreciated the wide selection of majors UMD has to offer. Additionally, being a large school with a beautiful campus were more reasons why Harootunaian chose Maryland. 

What clubs and organizations were you part of at UMD?

As a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, Harootunian held several leadership positions. Serving as director of sisterhood taught her how to develop close bonds with all her friends. She also ran the organization’s social media page which helped her gain experience in public relations. Additionally, Harootunian was part of PRSA, which is a group for PR students at UMD to connect with alumni and help get internships in the field. 

Since graduating, have you picked up any hobbies or interests?

Harootunian was very work-focused throughout her quarantine period. She dedicated her time to a Google marketing challenge. She and three others ran Google ads for a randomly assigned client in the non-profit space. She learned how to use Google analytics and Google ad tools from this experience. This kept her extremely busy at the beginning of the pandemic, and she highly recommends this volunteer opportunity to anyone interested in public relations/communications. 

Where do you currently work and what’s your job title?

Harootunian works at a public affairs agency based in Washington, D.C, called Kivvit. Most of her clients are in the non-profit or higher education sector. She specifically works as a digital associate, running online campaigns for clients. She is responsible for paid advertising campaigns (whom to target and how to advertise) and is currently entirely virtual, working from home. However, she is moving to D.C. in September with hopes of starting to work in-person and meeting her coworkers who she talks to every day. 

What is your advice for current or recently graduated Terps?

“Try internships in different areas if you can. Diversify your skill set by trying other things in your space. Get involved with volunteer work.” Harootunain says. “On top of all that, don’t stress too much. If you’re a hard worker, it will all pan out,” she adds. 

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This 20-part series highlights successful University of Maryland alumni from the Class of 2020. Are you a Class of 2020 graduate? Reach out to Jessica Lee (jlee1021@umd.edu) to learn more about getting involved with your Alumni Association. The Alumni Blog connects you with the latest at UMD. Check out articles on advancing your personal and professional goals, elevating your UMD pride, and celebrating Terp traditions, legacies and accomplishments. For even more content, follow the Alumni Association on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.