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Advice / Career Paths / Exploring Careers

Following a Clear Path From the Beginning Looks a Lot Like This

Name:
Kristen

Current Gig:
Charts Department Intern at Billboard Magazine, helping out with things like data analysis and gathering materials for editorial content.

On Track and in Tune:
Kristen’s passion for music was sparked at a young age, when she discovered her talent for singing. She aspired to go beyond the spotlight to the business side of the industry though, and that drive to understand what goes on behind the curtains led her to the Berklee College of Music. There, she sang (and studied!) her way to a degree in music business/management and professional music. After graduation, she left Boston and headed straight for Manhattan.

Side Hustle(s):
While Kristen’s career journey is just getting started, she’s already made huge strides in learning that “There are ways to find happiness in whatever you’re doing.” Along with having an internship, Kristen works odd jobs to help pay the bills—some of them even involve continued pursuit of her passion for singing, songwriting, acting, and dancing. (See below.)

Recent Release:
An a capella cover of “Sandcastles” by Beyoncé.

Words of Wisdom:
“You should always follow your true north. It may not always be a direct path, but as long as you have clear goals in mind, how you get there is not necessarily the most important thing.”

Grand Finale (a.k.a., Free Advice):
“Try not to set your mind on one specific thing. It’s possible to get stuck in a mindset where you think you should be doing this one thing, but it could end up being something completely different. Keep an open mind, don’t be afraid to play with different things and explore new options. You’ll always end up where you’re meant to be.”

Photo of woman listening to music courtesy of Hero Images/Getty Images.