Grad Profile: Todd Bennie

Todd Bennie

When did you first discover an interest in Advertising?

While completing my BA at Brock University, I took a marketing research class and it was actually one of the few classes that I wouldn’t miss (it sounds so boring but it was a great class!). I knew from there that I wanted to pursue a career in advertising or marketing. 

Why did you choose Sheridan?

I did what any student should do – research, research and more research.  I found that Sheridan had a great reputation with an outstanding advertising program.  I then attended an in-person information session where I met Peggy Barnwell (advertising professor and program coordinator) and I knew instantly this program was for me.

What did you learn from Sheridan?

I learned the ins and outs of the advertising industry from well experienced professors that had worked in the field for years. Coming from university, it was a nice change to actually get hands on and practical experience. Sheridan really set me up for success as I started my career.

What was the #1 thing you took away from your post-grad experience?

One of the most important things I learned was that networking is one of the most important things you can do for your career.  We’ve all heard that ‘the advertising industry is so small’ – it truly is!  Being able to meet people, have intelligent and insightful conversations and building a relationship with those in the industry, is key to opening doors down the road.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a post-grad program?

I personally think that a post graduate program is the perfect step after completing a degree or diploma. It gives you that additional advantage and confidence as you head into the work force.  It’s only a 1 year program – what is another year after completing a degree or diploma? It will set you up for a successful career. 

BMO

Where do you work and what is your current position?

I’m currently an advertising manager at BMO on the brand and sponsorship team for North America. I previously worked at john st. for 3+ years as an account supervisor and account executive.

How has the completion of the program affected your career?

The advertising post graduate program gave me the foundation and confidence to kick start my career. The hands-on experience made me feel confident and comfortable when I started working in the industry.

Canadian Marketing Awards

Have you received any awards?

I have, well actually I haven’t won them – but rather I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of an amazing team that has produced some award winning work. We’ve won a bunch of Canadian Marketing Awards, Marketing Magazine Awards and Agency of the Year award (among others).

What is your favourite part of the job?

Advertising employs some of the best folks that I’ve had the opportunity to work with. Besides just wonderful people, one of the things I love about advertising today is the constant change in our strategies and tactics for how we advertise and reach consumers. We are always looking for new ways to evolve and talk to our consumers which makes the job exciting. Staying abreast with how the industry changes means that learning and educating yourself is something that you always have to do, even after your post graduate program. 

Grad Profile: Roya Hakami

Roya Hakami

When did you first discover an interest in Advertising?

To be honest, my interest in advertising came a little later on for me. After I graduated from Western University with a specialization in film studies, I realized that as much as I love the arts, I wanted a more stable career. That’s when a few people I spoke to recommended that I look into a career in the advertising industry as it would give me the opportunity to be creative while growing in a steady career.

Why did you choose Sheridan?

I chose Sheridan because it was recommended by a few people in the industry. I had gone to university and felt that I had grown as an analytical thinker. I was ready to develop hands-on skills in a fast-paced environment. I liked the idea that I would go into a job pre-trained instead of going in clueless and stumbling to figure it out.

What did you learn from Sheridan?

I learned a lot from Sheridan. I learned that I wanted to be a copywriter. I learned about all sides of the industry: what an accounts person does, the impact a media buy can make on a campaign, and how the industry is constantly changing to name a few. I also learned a good deal about strategy and how no good creative can exist without a good strategy.

What was the #1 thing you took away from your post grad experience?

The #1 thing I took away from my post grad experience was the understanding of how an agency works and how to work in an agency. I felt that going into my internship in accounts services, I knew what my responsibilities were and those of the other roles. As a copywriter, I understand more of the other agency roles which helps me work with others.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a post grad program?

I would say go for it. The year flies by and it really helps you figure out what you want to do. You also have a great opportunity to meet people in your industry and get connected.

How has the completion of the Program affected your career? 

My path was a little different than those of my classmates as I ended up on the creative side. The program taught me that I wanted to pursue a career as a copywriter in the advertising industry. Even though I did switch sides, my experience at Sheridan helps me everyday when it comes to working with strategy, accounts and understanding media.

Mass Minority

Where do you work and what is your current position?

I work at Mass Minority and I am a copywriter / content creator. Basically, I get to write and come up with ideas all day and get paid for it. For me, it doesn’t get any better than that!

What is your favourite part of the job?

My favourite part of the job is seeing my work come to life. My partner, Marina Khouzam (Art Director) and I, recently created an anti-racism campaign and to see our posters up and the commercial on TV was really thrilling. I also felt really grateful to work on something that can make a difference and has a strong message behind it. I also got to create talking sandwiches, so that was pretty cool too.