Amari McFadden G’19

Amari McFadden graduated from the Newhouse School in 2019 with a master’s degree in advertising.

“Build connections and use your professors. They’re here and more than willing to help. Never stop networking and building rapport with all the amazing people you encounter at Newhouse.”

Amari McFadden G’19

While at Newhouse, he was selected for the 4A’s Multicultural Advertising Intern Program (MAIP), which connects minorities interested in advertising careers with top agencies across the country. Additionally, McFadden interned with the New York-based digital agency 360i in their social department. Towards the end of his internship with 360i, he was offered a full-time position where he now works as associate social marketing manager.

How did you obtain your current position, and what positions did you hold before it?

I found out about 4A’S MAIP from Professor Edward Russell early in the fall semester. I was then blessed with the opportunity to intern in the 360i’s social department at the end of the second half of the capstone semester, and was hired at the end of the summer.

What’s an average day like for you on the job?

I come in around 9 a.m. and write up a newsletter of daily trends and pop culture moments that I’m responsible for sending out to departments across the agency. Next, I have a daily status meeting at 10 a.m. with the rest of my team for Bravo. After that, no day is really the same. I have tons of meetings throughout the day with my two clients, Bravo and Champion. I’m in constant communication with the clients, fulfilling their asks and needs throughout the day, and posting and reacting to real-time content as well as creating and strategizing for future campaigns and projects. Did I mention a lot of meetings and client facing?

How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current job?

Before Newhouse, I had no knowledge or experience regarding advertising, whatsoever. Newhouse prepared me to get an opportunity, first and foremost. From the beginning, at the summer “boot camp” program, I had a resume and LinkedIn ready for life post-college. I was taught professionalism and how to navigate the industry and leverage my resources to succeed. The advertising program also dealt with many tight deadlines and group projects, which is the reality of the industry.

What unique features of your graduate program drew you to it in the first place?

The Newhouse name and reputation, as well as the statistics regarding student success following the program.

What are some obstacles or misconceptions about your field that students ought to be aware of?

It doesn’t get easier. Be ready to roll your sleeves up and get to work. There are no handouts; you have to want it and embrace it all. Also, attending Newhouse isn’t enough. You have to leverage your network and put in the work to reap the benefits of Newhouse.

What moments in your career have been most exciting or defining thus far?

I was encouraged by my department to start a daily newsletter for my team to keep them up to date on all memes, trends and cultural moments. The NY president and CEO of 360i caught wind of it and subscribed and encouraged the rest of the agency to subscribe to my newsletter.