Career Spotlight: Sheena Valero, Digital Communications Director
Are you an aspiring writer interested in digital content and marketing? You might enjoy working in Digital Communications.
Digital Communications Specialists are responsible for planning, implementing and monitoring digital media strategies in order to increase brand awareness and improve marketing efforts.
As 4S’ Digital Communications Director, Sheena Valero shared with us some insights into her career and definition of success.
Q: What is your career background?
A: After a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Italian & Special Fields from UCLA, I worked as an editorial intern for a travel news website. From there, I fell in love with writing and editing digital content, which led me to work for a small business learning SEO, and later, for a nonprofit as a Content Coordinator. When I became a mom, I had to work at home, which opened up opportunities as a freelance Content Specialist, writing and editing content for both small businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Q: What steps should students take to follow your career path?
A: When I graduated, I envisioned myself as a book author, but I’ve also always had an interest in technology. So, with the emergence of digital content, I got excited that my two passions were merging and I sought to learn more. Whatever you study initially, it doesn’t have to be limited to that path of learning. To get a role in digital communications, be eager to learn the latest in content media and take opportunities in expanding your creativity. Aside from writing content, I’ve also branched out in digital design, creating for marketing, advertising and websites.
Q: How do you manage your time as a digital communications director?
A: It can certainly be challenging to lead teams and manage a company’s global online presence. On top of that, I have two kids. What has been helpful is being able to work at home, so I can set my own hours, save time from having to commute, and create a flexible work schedule that fits my family’s needs. Over time, I’ve learned to be much more organized, outlining my daily tasks in tangible goals, setting priorities, and knowing what to delegate.
Q: If you could go back in time, what are 3 things that you’d like to tell yourself as a senior in high school?
A: First, I’d remind myself to follow God’s calling for me. My earliest childhood memories are filled with me writing stories after stories either on paper or a typewriter. I even wrote plays that my childhood best friends would act out in front of the whole school. I knew that writing was part of me, but in high school, I was so concerned about finding a lucrative course of study, that I hesitated in pursuing writing in college. (I tried to major in Chemistry at first, but God used a Creative Writing course to bring me back to my senses).
Second, I’d encourage myself to take opportunities whenever possible. I wasn’t too keen on working as an unpaid intern after college, but it was difficult to find a job as a writer with no experience. However, I’m forever grateful for the skills I gained working under editors and digital creators, who were navigating the new, exciting world of digital content at that time. Even from there, it wasn’t a straight path to where I am now. Instead, it was marked with many leaps of faith, even resigning from a job I loved to be able to work at home as a freelancer.
Lastly, I’d tell myself that success is what you make it. If I look back on what my dreams and aspirations were as a senior, they’re certainly different from my reality now. But, guess what - I don’t think I would have been half as content as I am today. Success is relative. I feel successful being able to be a full-time mom and Digital Communications Director, grateful for the chance to have worked with such amazing clients from all industries and backgrounds. I’ve especially been blessed to be a part of the life-changing work of nonprofits, like the 4S Education Foundation, an organization that mentors ambitious young people to follow their own paths to success.
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