“The Perfect Time Is Whenever You Say Yes”

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Hayley, a recent graduate of the University of San Francisco's Master of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC) program, embodies a career path as unique as it is inspiring. From her early days pursuing a performance career in musical theatre, to teaching, and now thriving in the tech world as a Product Marketing Manager at Workday, Hayley's journey demonstrates the power of embracing change and pursuing one's passions. Her transition from the stage to the dynamic landscape of SaaS product marketing might seem unconventional, but it highlights Hayley's adaptability and her ability to connect storytelling with the world of technology.

Hayley's experience in the MAPC program proved to be a pivotal chapter in her career transformation. She was drawn to the program's flexibility, its location in the heart of the tech industry, and the opportunity to tailor her education to her specific interests. The program's diverse offerings, including concentrations in Strategic Communication, Health Communication, and Technical Communication, allowed Hayley to focus on her aspirations within the tech sector. She chose the Technical Communication concentration, appreciating the program's emphasis on not only describing technical concepts but also utilizing various mediums to communicate effectively and conducting research to inform communication decisions. “I knew that I wanted to work in tech,” Hayley explained, highlighting the program's alignment with her career goals.

One aspect Hayley particularly appreciated about the MAPC program was its flexibility, which allowed her to balance her studies with other commitments. The remote learning options were invaluable, and the program's strong emphasis on networking provided her with opportunities to connect with professionals from various fields. She had the chance to meet crisis communicators, VPs of Communications, and published authors, gaining invaluable insights into the diverse career paths within the communication field. One of her most memorable experiences was being part of the MAPC Media Group, where she helped launch the program's LinkedIn page. This hands-on experience allowed her to apply classroom learning to real-world projects and develop her leadership and communication skills.

Reflecting on her time at USF, Hayley Mason emphasizes the value of the connections she made, both with faculty and fellow students. She recalls a piece of advice from Larry Kamer's Leadership Communication class that has stayed with her: “Never refer to your audience as ‘the public.’” This lesson, she explains, taught her the importance of specificity and understanding her audience, a principle she applies to her work to this day. When asked what she would tell prospective MAPC students, Hayley encourages them to take the leap. “I would tell someone who is considering MAPC to just say yes to taking a chance on yourself,” she advises. “The perfect time is whenever you say yes.” Her own journey is a testament to the power of that advice, and she encourages others to embrace the opportunities that the MAPC program offers.