Next Up at Next Step: The wonderful Alyssa McCann! For years, Alyssa worked in television broadcasting as a news anchor and reporter. Now, she’s decided to take her love of storytelling and outgoing personality to the PR industry, where she became our newest Account Associate in May 2020. Keep reading to learn more about Alyssa, including her favorite NSC memories so far, her hobbies and favorite travel spots, as well as her advice for new PR pros entering the field.
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?
Prior to working at Next Step Communications and joining the PR industry, I majored in television broadcasting at Curry College. Following earning my degree, I lived in Northern Michigan where I began my broadcasting career covering news and sports across the northern part of the state. I also served as my camera person, edited my video, and produced my newscasts; all of which taught me the ins and outs of television! After my career in Michigan, I moved back to Massachusetts and worked for Western Mass News in Springfield. In Springfield, I began as a weekend reporter and then served as our morning traffic reporter and anchor. You could say I know my way around Massachusetts fairly well!
WHAT WORK AT NSC ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
During my time at NSC, I would have to say that I am most proud of the work we did with a patient named Shane who has Guillain-Barré syndrome. We interviewed Shane about his experience with the Bioness technology and the impact his physical therapy had on his life. We were then able to create a video showing his progress during his mobility journey. Through pitching, we were able to secure him a spot on a local news broadcast. Shane shared that after the story aired, complete strangers were reaching out to him for advice and insight. This shows the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on someone’s life!
IF YOU COULD DO ONLY ONE ASPECT OF PR WORK WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I love content creation and connecting with consumers. Listening to their journeys and the progress they were able to make using our clients’ products or technology is inspiring! From there we are allowed to have our creative juices flow and develop unique ways to help get these consumer stories heard.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF NSC?
While I have not been at NSC for long, our team outing to the Red Sox game was awesome! That was my first time meeting the team in person and sincerely getting to know each of my coworkers. The team at NSC has been extremely welcoming; everyone is kind, understanding, fun, and respectful. What more could you ask for!?
WHAT ARE YOU UP TO OUTSIDE OF NSC?
Outside of NSC, I am typically enjoying Peloton workouts, cuddling with my dog Brody, taking walks around my neighborhood while listening to a podcast, reading, or watching reality TV. I also love trying new restaurant spots with friends and family, and having the opportunity to travel and experience new cities and cultures.
ANY ADVICE FOR THOSE ENTERING OR INTERESTED IN PR?
Always re-read your material and then re-read it again! It’s also important to follow your gut and ask questions.
MUST-HAVE ITEM ALWAYS ON YOU?
I always have my YETI water bottle and chapstick on me!
GO-TO PIZZA PLACE?
Well, being allergic to cheese really stinks! My favorite used to be Pizza Regina in the North End (the original).
FAVORITE PLACE YOU’VE TRAVELED?
There have been so many places I traveled to that I loved. One time, in particular, I was lucky enough to go on a European cruise with my family when I was younger. While the views and cultures at each location were phenomenal, it was the family I was surrounded by that made the experience so meaningful.
