Jennifer Criss
Jennifer Criss is a content strategist and writer at Ball State University in marketing and communications. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English in 1998 and a graduate degree in emerging media design and development (both degrees at Ball State) in 2023. You can connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn.
What does a “content strategist” do?
As a content strategist and writer, my focus is on telling meaningful stories that reflect our values and mission at Ball State. I create content that aligns with institutional goals while still feeling approachable and authentic. Finding the right communication platform is also important. Is the content right for a blog? A social media post? A press release?
One thing I like about my job is the variety. One day, I might edit a brochure, interview an alum, student, or faculty member for a blog, or help with a photoshoot. The next, I am working on the Ball State Magazine or an ad campaign.
There are lots of stories to tell and many ways to tell them.
Learn more about jobs in content strategy.
What is the most interesting or meaningful part of your job?
I think the best part of my job is connecting with students and telling the stories of their Ball State journey. I also love talking with faculty who are passionate about guiding students and championing their success. It’s also pretty great to speak with Ball State alumni that are still connected to their alma mater and talking about the success they’ve attained after graduation.
What mindsets are required in your position?
Adaptability is a big one. Being able to work on multiple projects at once and have the flexibility to switch gears when needed is extremely important.
What is your job like? Fast or slow? Collaborative or solitary?
There are times when we are neck-deep in magazine stories and very busy, while at other times it is a bit slower and we can be a bit more creative with the content we produce. I like both, but it is nice that it isn’t high speed all the time and that there is time to be creative. I am on a communications team, but the job is mostly solitary. I do get to be part of a collaborative team when we are working on larger ad campaigns.
What entry-level jobs are available in your field to people with degrees in English?
I would say my job could be considered entry-level if you have a background in writing and some familiarity with marketing concepts.
What advice do you have for English majors and those who might still be searching?
It took me 17 years to find my dream job, so I would say to keep at it. Find the job you want and master the skills it takes to get there. (Note: Jennifer gained those skills in EMDD.) Be more proactive and persistent than I was. Do not discount your skills because others might not believe in you. Advocate for yourself.
English majors are great communicators and are needed everywhere. AI is a great and emerging tool, but it still takes skill to review the output, ensure there are no hallucinations, and make sure it still makes sense and hits the mark. AI cannot replace the human-ness that an English major would bring.
For more information, visit our website and read more stories like this! If you’re interested in learning more about alumni who work in content strategy, check out these interviews, too.
Morgan Heldman: From English to Samsung
Eileen Porzuczek: From Creative Writing Undergrad to Content Creator and Writer
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