From Linguistics to Executive Communications: Julia Zelle's Journey to Autodesk

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Before joining the University of San Francisco’s Master of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC) program, Julia’s journey began with a BA in Languages and Linguistics in Italy, followed by a pivotal year abroad in Amsterdam. It was during her time at a Dutch startup that she discovered her passion for content creation, despite initially working in supply operations.

The pandemic provided a turning point. Seeking a more creative career, Julia spent six months in Brussels, honing her writing skills for a cultural online magazine. This experience solidified her desire to pursue a Master’s in communications. When her partner was accepted into a Bay Area PhD program, USF became the ideal destination for Julia.

USF’s MAPC program stood out for its flexibility, allowing Julia to tailor her degree through diverse electives and evening classes. The campus location was also a significant factor. However, it was the program director's welcoming demeanor that truly solidified her decision.

Julia chose Technical Communication as her concentration, captivated by the world of infographics and digital signage. A project analyzing Spotify Wrapped allowed her to merge her love for music and communications, demonstrating her ability to transform complex topics into engaging content. This skill became invaluable in her current role.

From her time as a MAPC student, Julia remembers the thought-provoking discussions in her Ethics class, which encouraged critical thinking and value-driven decision-making. Memorable experiences included a podcast project for a digital marketing class and creating her own podcast for her capstone project, highlighting her love for collaborative and creative endeavors. Julia deeply appreciates USF’s supportive faculty, diverse international student body, and the opportunities to engage beyond the classroom. Her involvement in the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), for instance, led to an internship at Autodesk, which ultimately resulted in her current position. The connections she made enriched her experience and provided invaluable personal and professional growth.

Today, as an Executive Communications Specialist for the SVP, Chief Trust Officer at Autodesk, Julia’s work revolves around complex topics like cybersecurity and AI. Her MAPC degree played a crucial role in her career progression, from her initial internship to her current full-time role. The hands-on experience managing the MAPC social media team and the insightful conversations with professors and classmates were instrumental in her professional development. Julia also remains in touch with classmates and professors, cherishing the connections she made during her time at USF.

Her advice to current MAPC students is to fully embrace the journey. “Make the most of this experience!” she emphasizes. “Your time at USF and MAPC should go beyond attending classes. Connect with your classmates—you’ll learn so much from them. Take full advantage of the opportunity to interact with your professors, who are incredibly accomplished professionals, ask as many questions as possible, and don’t hesitate to join clubs and associations. These two years are not just about coursework but about expanding your network, developing new skills, and opening doors to opportunities you may not have even imagined!” Julia’s journey showcases how a passion for communication, combined with the right educational environment, can lead to a fulfilling and dynamic career.