Expert: Peter Gabany - 1/7/2008

Question

By the Spring of 2008 I will be a recent graduate and will have a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology. Anthropology was not my first choice as a major and recently I have some interest in advertising. With the degree I am not interested in research or teaching, so I thought outside of the box and found out that advertising will benefit from my skills in Anthropology.
I have no experience in business or marketing. Are their ad agencies that can cater unexperienced employers? AND I cannot afford not to have a full time job.

Answer
Tara,

Anthropology is a VERY strong academic background to have in advertising today but don't limit your sites on advertising - that said, don't ignore the industry either. Just know that large design firms, market research, direct marketing and public relations and public affairs (government affairs) firms all have a need for your insight.

I would if I could enroll in a regional community college diploma course on advertising and I'm certain if your degree is in good standing that you will be allowed to wave 1 or 2 years from the curriculum giving you a great grounding in  the industry.

But if you must go directly into the job field then do the research of the field and find your position - account coordinator, trafficing or possibly and account exec.

I hope this works out for you - please let me know how you make out. Meanwhile here is a great resource - http://advertising.utexas.edu/world/index.asp

Cheers,

Pete