Get to Know Laura Rennie: Publications Manager
Q: What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me is spent trying not to drown in my inboxes! I like to start each morning checking e-mails and putting together a to-do list for the day. As the Publications Manager, my job involves working on the websites and social media accounts of all three of our business. I also work with the print issue of Sass Magazine. On any given day I might be editing web articles, brainstorming editorial calendar ideas, scheduling social media posts, drafting our weekly newsletter, promoting upcoming events, or reaching out to potential contributors.
Q: What were you doing before your job at Sass Studios?
Ten years ago I was a college senior studying journalism. I dreamed of being a published author and working for a woman’s magazine. (I kid you not!) After graduating I worked as a features writer for a local newspaper and freelanced for a women’s website. In case you think I immediately found a job in journalism, the truth is I didn’t; I was a nanny after college. After I left the newspaper to move to Frederick, I worked as a substitute teacher.
Interestingly enough, I worked as a freelance writer for Sass Magazine before being hired to work at Sass Studios! (I wrote this piece literally two days before bringing home a newborn!)
Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?
Adventurous, dependable, and fun-loving.
Q. What’s something you’d say you’re good at?
I’m good at taking care of myself. I learned proper self-care when my life was turned upside down. Taking care of myself emotionally and physically became top priority. I stepped away from working and spent time doing things like reading for hours, going to the movies, and learning yoga. I took up running as a way to release negative energy. Even now, with an active toddler and a part-time job, I’m adamant about fitting in time to rest and recharge.
Q: When you’re not at Sass, what are you doing?
Taking walks with my little girl, reading, binging sports documentaries with my husband (we’re obsessed with All Or Nothing and Last Chance U), or getting off on my own for a massage, pedicure, or time with friends.
Q: What advice do you have for those who want to pursue their dream job?
Our society has really shifted into a mindset of do what makes you happy. For centuries work was not something you did because you loved it — you did it to feed yourself and your family. There needs to be a balance between loving what you do and recognizing that sometimes work actually does feel like work! I can choose to make my dream job be something unattainable for my lifestyle (I would love to be a jet-setting travel writer), OR I can choose to view my current job as my dream job! I have flexible hours that benefit my family. I’m actively using my favorite skills (writing, connecting people, telling people’s stories) and I get to work in an incredible downtown area.
If you’re not able to immediately pursue your dream job, perhaps there are ways you can get involved with a charity you’re passionate about, or ask your boss for more opportunities to hone your skills. Do your part to make things happen, and trust that doors will open for you!
Get to know Sass Studios founder Kim Dow here.