Episode two of Next Up at Next Step is all about the one and only Melissa Brouillette! She has been a vital member of our Next Step Communications (NSC) team for the past five years, leading much of the powerful work for our client Glaukos. Learn more about Melissa, including her advice to those entering the PR field, and her favorite memory at NSC so far.
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND & HOW DID YOU END UP AT NSC?
While I currently live in the North End of Boston, I grew up in Connecticut with my parents, younger brother, and two pups – Marley and Milo. I attended Suffolk University, where I played on the Women’s Soccer Team all four years. Now, after over five years of being a part of the NSC team (and loving every second), I am a Senior Account Executive.
AS NSC’S LONGEST STANDING EMPLOYEE, WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE CULTURE?
As cheesy as it sounds, I would say my colleagues – as well as the constant opportunities to grow. Working with a great group of people who support and help each other is one part of this job that I love. In addition to, the endless opportunities to learn and grow as a PR professional in terms of new tasks and the chance to take ownership of projects and campaigns.
WHAT WORK AT NSC ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
Overall, I think I’m most proud of the work we have done with Glaukos. Our work with them includes blog content, media outreach (on local and national levels), as well as social media, and most recently digital marketing efforts. Connecting with people living with keratoconus—a rare progressive vision condition—and hearing their stories is extremely powerful. So, being able to share their stories with others who may be experiencing something similar is extremely rewarding.
Our efforts, along with Packard Innovations and Glaukos (formally Avedro), to execute an integrated marketing program to raise awareness for the only FDA-approved therapeutic treatment for keratoconus, was recognized as a finalist for the Health Care PR and Marketing Campaign of the Year Award by Ragan’s PR Daily. Download our case study if you want to learn more!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AT NSC?
I would say that my favorite memories at NSC are the ones outside of the office. We have such a close-knit group that collaborates wonderfully throughout the workdays, so when we come together outside of the office—whether that’s trying to work together at an escape room, ice skating, trying new restaurants, doing a Zoom cocktail class, or hanging out on a boat in the middle of the lake—we’re able to just push aside the work, enjoy the company, and have fun!
WHAT ARE YOU UP TO WHEN NOT WORKING AT NSC?
Outside of NSC, you can find me bopping around the city. I love hanging with friends and trying new restaurants. I also love to travel and usually plan a few trips a year—including my yearly trips to Disney World!
WHAT SHOW ARE YOU CURRENTLY BINGING?
My friend recently got me back into One Tree Hill! I loved this show growing up, and haven’t watched it in a few years, so I’m excited to be rewatching it. The show definitely takes you on a wild, emotional ride!
IF YOU COULD BE ONE ICE CREAM FLAVOR, WHAT WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?
Cookie Dough! Not only is it my all-time favorite ice cream flavor, but it’s a classic. It’s beloved and has everything that makes a great dessert – classic vanilla, chocolate chips, and who doesn’t love cookie dough!
