Sarah Roche
My time at Maynooth was incredibly rewarding. My highlight would be the Marketing / IB Live module when we presented our projects to real clients, we had be working alongside for the previous six weeks. The organization my team worked with was NCBI (National Council for the Blind Ireland) and it was such a privilege to have them listen to our ideas and wanting to take on board our research.
I found the atmosphere on the campus to be something unique. There was always a buzz about the place and made it a very welcoming place to come and study. It was also special to be able to attend the campus for in person classes getting a real experience from having been at home for the previous few years with Covid-19.
I did not come from an academic background having studied Classical piano performance for my undergraduate degree. I completed a Post Gradate Diploma in International Business and I have gained not only practical experience but essential knowledge in research and communications. I learned to diversify my skills and combine them with my previous education to create a path for myself within the industry I wanted to work within.
Embrace everything the college has to offer.
What does your current role involve?
As a publicist at White Bear PR, I specialize in representing composers for film, TV, and media, as well as music labels, not-for-profit organizations, and film/music festivals, playing a crucial role in the music and entertainment industry.
For composers, I serve as a bridge between their musical creations and the visual storytelling world. I work to build the composers' profiles by highlighting their work's significance in enhancing the emotional impact of their projects. This involves creating press releases, organizing interviews, and leveraging social media to showcase the composers' expertise and contributions. I have had my client’s interview and feature in outlets such as, LA Times, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, NPR, Billboard, Gold Derby, and other media.
For not-for-profit organizations in the music industry, I help raise awareness about their initiatives, events, and contributions to the community. One of the organizations I work with is the Alliance For Women Film Composers. I use my communication skills to attract attention from the media and potential collaborators, ultimately aiding the organization's mission.
My role is to be a strategic communicator, crafting compelling narratives that resonate with the media and the public. I build and maintain relationships with journalists, bloggers, influencers, and industry professionals to secure meaningful coverage for my clients. By understanding the nuances of both the music and entertainment landscapes, I work to elevate the visibility and reputation of composers, labels, not-for-profit organizations, and festivals in the ever-evolving world of media and arts.
What do you find most interesting/challenging about your job?
The most interesting aspect of my job is getting to work with so many different composers to promote their work. I am also privileged to see a lot of films and TV shows before they release. The most challenging aspect would be the combination of being in a fast-paced environment and having to be hyper organized.
What advice would you give to Maynooth University students entering the job market, either generally speaking or in regard to your specific career sector?
In all aspects of the job market, I feel perseverance and belief in your ability is key to succeeding.