Deacon Spotlight: Virginia Daukas

Virginia Daukas (2021, BA English, Minor in Politics & International Studies)

Marketing Specialist at J.McLaughlin in New York, NY

Tell us about your current job role/employer and what you’re currently working on. 

As a Marketing Specialist at a retail fashion brand, I craft dynamic, data-driven marketing strategies that drive brand loyalty and sales, and team up with creative minds across departments to bring projects to life and connect with our audience in fresh and engaging ways. I am currently creating our marketing strategy for a limited-edition collaboration with a legendary designer featuring a collection of luxe evening-wear.

What was the most challenging aspect of your first “real world job” and what did you learn from it?

The most challenging aspect of my first “real world job” was navigating team dynamics while working with people who had different values. I learned the importance of meeting people where they are while continuing to follow my career goals and hone my skills.

What advice would you give to new Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college (finances, health, values, work/life balance)?

I would remind new Wake Forest graduates that this time you have after college is when you’re finding your independence in a way you never have before. Although daunting, everyone that graduates college is going through the same life transition. Be kind to yourself! No one has it figured out. Rest is productive. Going over to a friends’ for dinner when you’re tired after a long day is healing. Your wallet won’t implode if you splurge for the workout class or coffee. This time is meant to be enjoyed, not dreaded. Rely on your community, and remember you have all the tools you need to thrive.

How have you made personal and professional relationships in your city, company, or community?

Being kind to others and surrounding myself with people whose values align with mine has led me to build unexpected relationships at work and beyond. You attract the energy you put out into the world. If you lift up others, they’ll lift you up too and introduce you to other like-minded people.

Have you been mentored by anyone at Wake Forest or in your professional life? If so, what impact has that relationship had on you?

I have had the honor of being mentored by Wake alumni throughout not only my professional life, but my personal life as well. To name a few, Erin Miller Weibel (’06) has spent mornings sitting with me in coffee shops dispensing career wisdom and chatting about her years in Chi O (when it was still Fidel), as well as introducing me to her incredible network. Nicky Vogt (’15) has spent afternoons visiting me at work when I was a retail store associate in our hometown, giving me resume advice, and introducing me to her friends and colleagues. Erin and Nicky have not only dispensed invaluable career insights and helped mitigate my anxieties, but they have also given me role models to look up to.

What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are about to start their first professional job?

It’s okay to be unsure and scared! Accept that you’re not supposed to have it all figured out right now. Most importantly, be kind. Be kind to yourself, your friends, your family, your coworkers, your neighbors, everyone. Also, always take the call. If someone offers to connect you with someone in their network, say yes. It doesn’t matter if you don’t think it’s a career path you want—you may be surprised! And, if not, it’s only 20 minutes of your life, and you’ll most likely learn something new.

Before you know it, people will be calling you for advice. Answer the phone! It’s not only good karma, but maybe they’ll be able to help you, too. This also goes for calls from your family and friends. You may not end up in the same city as your best friend, but always remember you’re both just a phone call away.

What are your future career goals or plans? How are you being intentional about working towards them?

I’m striving to grow my career in marketing and see what other campaigns and projects are out there. I’m leveraging the Wake Forest network to learn more about roles that may align with my career goals and am loving catching up with my fellow Deacs and members of their networks!

Story published in October 2024. For current updates on Virginia’s career path, visit her LinkedIn profile.