Though Tania Smith was an economics major at Spelman College, her undergraduate internships focused on marketing. She recognized a pattern and a need. “Before entering the workforce, I really wanted to deepen my understanding of marketing,” says the North Carolina native.

After an internship with Hulu, Tania began recognizing what she describes as a “deep passion for working in the entertainment industry.” She believed that the Master of Marketing program at Vanderbilt would enable her to pursue both of her career goals.

“I’ve always valued small cohorts, so I can build meaningful relationships with my peers and professors,” Tania says. That was a big reason why she chose Vanderbilt. Through talking with alumni, she says, “I had opportunities to network with people who were in my shoes not long ago, and to gain insight into different career paths. Networking is such a huge part of your success in the business world, and Vanderbilt does a great job of creating environments where I could do just that.”

The personal approach to education at Vanderbilt also meant opportunities to work closely with faculty and staff. “They put me in contact with individuals who could help me reach my goals, prepped me for career opportunities that aligned with those goals, and gave me the tools to excel,” Tania says.

Through Handshake—a platform to which Vanderbilt Business students gain access to information about jobs and internships—she opened the door to an internship with Sony Music Nashville. Her career coach in the Leadership Development Program prepped her for interviews. As a result, Tania says, “I could grow as a professional in a career that I love due to the resources at Vanderbilt, and I am so grateful.

“Vanderbilt equips you with the essential tools to ensure your professional success. From world-renowned faculty to the career and leadership development teams, you’ll find support and guidance every step of the way.”

Fun Fact: In fourth grade, Tania played a role in a production of the August Wilson play “Fences.” Her castmates were TV and film actors. “I’ve come across a few of them randomly while watching shows,” she says. 

I had opportunities to network with people who were in my shoes not long ago, and to gain insight into different career paths.