Background Information
Mark Ganton is a principal of Brian J. Ganton & Associates.
Brian J. Ganton & Associates (BGA) is a multi-disciplinary branding
and advertising firm founded in 1972 in New York City. BGA has over
35 years of experience with household consumer brands like GE, Skoal
and Reader’s Digest and leading building product brands including
Pergo, Rubbermaid and DuPont (http://www.ganton.com/). In 2007, Mark was selected by New Jersey Business Magazine as one of New Jersey’s 40 most dynamic business leaders under the age of 40. In 2008, Mark was selected by Graphic Design USA as a Person to Watch in the field of branding, advertising and design.
Major at Seton Hall
History
Current Field
Advertising
Advice to First Year Students from Mark Ganton
As a first year student, I remember dealing with a lot of new things and feeling a bit overwhelmed. What major should I choose? Should I minor in something? What kind of career do I want? It seemed that some of my friends and classmates had it all figured out. At the time I wished I had a roadmap for the rest of my life. But it didn't work out that way for me and in hindsight, I am kind of glad. Again, for others it is clear cut and the journey is a little more scripted out and that is great.
For those that are unsure I would offer a few pieces of advice. First, you are not alone and there is nothing wrong with a healthy amount skepticism deciding on a major and career path, so relax. Second, sample what is out there.
1) If you are not a business student, take a business class. A business class is helpful no matter what career field you select.
2) Work for a semester as an Intern. Internships help you learn what a possible job or field is all about.
3) Talk to SHU mentors, Pirate Mentors, in your field of interest and "pick their brains."
Also, it is never too early to network. Not only with students but with SHU Alums. As Alumni Board President Elect I am constantly meeting SHU Alums that are in prominent positions in Government, Business, Media, Education, Marketing, Advertising, PR. Sports etc. Take advantage of that.
Other Advice
Get involved while at school. Join the Student Alumni Association or any other worthwhile committee or organization. The friends you make there will go on to other things after graduation--so stay in touch, it sounds like 4 years is a ways off but it comes around quickly.
Lastly, have fun. Find things you like to do and explore them. If you like sports but may not be an athlete, look into Sports Management or see if WSOU has an opportunity to call a game, etc. People who are successful are doing what they love to do.
For more information about Seton Hall's Pirate Mentor Program visit:
http://studentaffairs.shu.edu/career/alumni-piratepride-piratenavigator-lookingforamentor.html
and call Seton Hall's Career Center at 973-761-9355 to set up an appointment with a Career Professional to learn more!
Also, it is never too early to network. Not only with students but with SHU Alums. As Alumni Board President Elect I am constantly meeting SHU Alums that are in prominent positions in Government, Business, Media, Education, Marketing, Advertising, PR. Sports etc. Take advantage of that.
Other Advice
Get involved while at school. Join the Student Alumni Association or any other worthwhile committee or organization. The friends you make there will go on to other things after graduation--so stay in touch, it sounds like 4 years is a ways off but it comes around quickly.
Lastly, have fun. Find things you like to do and explore them. If you like sports but may not be an athlete, look into Sports Management or see if WSOU has an opportunity to call a game, etc. People who are successful are doing what they love to do.
For more information about Seton Hall's Pirate Mentor Program visit:
http://studentaffairs.shu.edu/career/alumni-piratepride-piratenavigator-lookingforamentor.html
and call Seton Hall's Career Center at 973-761-9355 to set up an appointment with a Career Professional to learn more!
