Marie Kittelstad
Marie Kittelstad has taken full advantage of her college experience. She has studied abroad in Ireland, and has completed two Co-Op jobs. Marie began to explore career paths in her first year at Pace University, leaving no stone unturned during her exploration. She networked with faculty and staff to find the career that would utilize her skills. Ultimately, her real life experience helped her to decide on a career in public relations.
During the summer of 2004, Marie started at MasterCard International as an intern in the Law Department, where she still works today. Her responsibilities include assisting with the support of public policy outreach, creation and implementation of consumer education programs, as well as assisting in the development of legislative and regulatory programs and initiatives to raise awareness for MasterCard’s efforts in the public affairs area.
The highlight of Marie’s internship was being selected to represent MasterCard as part of the delegation to the Democratic National Convention, serving as liaison to key legislators, regulators, and business leaders. Marie was responsible for developing the master itinerary for all events the MasterCard delegation supported or sponsored in Boston. This included more than 56 events with venues all over the city! In addition to the convention, Marie attended a luncheon for the democratic women in Congress, and a gathering for legislators and regulators at Fenway Parkthat she says was a “priceless experience!” Marie also represented Mastercard at the Republican National Convention in New York.
“Mostly I came into MasterCard saying I want[ed] to do something with writing but I am not sure what,” explains Marie. “Now through all my networking projects, and through the great relationship I have with my manager, I know that public relations is the career I will pursue.” Marie chose her career path by getting involved with Co-Op, taking the initiative to work in various positions, and networking with co-workers and university staff a
