“Now that I have completed the DAM Certificate Program, I feel I have a greater understanding of the crossroads between digital content and the technology behind it. I have more confidence in asking colleagues about technical considerations in our work. Plus, I’ve networked with other DAM professionals in my organization so I can continue learning well after class has been dismissed,” said Monica Barudin, a recent graduate of the SC&I Digital Asset Management (DAM) Certificate Program.
As a Content Strategist working at CVS Health in Massachusetts, Barudin said she was initially drawn to the SC&I program because it offered her “exactly what I was looking for: a flexible online program at a school with a great reputation. I also appreciated that the program allowed working professionals to work at their own pace, on their own time. When I was ready to apply, I reached out to a colleague who had just completed the DAM certificate program and asked for his opinion of it. His glowing review encouraged me to pursue the program, and I’m glad I did.”
Read our Q&A with Barudin, who holds a bachelor’s degree from Quinnipiac University, and a master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication from Lasell University, to learn more about how the Digital Asset Management (DAM) Certificate helped increase her knowledge and boost her career.
Why did you decide to take the DAM Certificate Program?
As a lifelong learner, I gravitate toward education and experiences that allow me to grow both personally and professionally. I’m currently a Content Strategist, and I have a background working with digital content within content management systems (CMS). I love the intersection of technology and content, which is why I love working in CMS so much. I learned about DAM a few years ago, and when I realized it’s a close cousin to CMS, I knew I wanted to learn more about it. When I found the Rutgers DAM certificate program, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.
What skills and insights did you take away from the program?
My biggest takeaway from the DAM certificate program is that this field is growing at an extraordinary rate, and with good reason. Organizations of all sizes are realizing the full potential of having a DAM system in place and employees to manage it.
What professors and classes have had the most impact on you?
Any class taught by David Lipsey. His passion for the field is evident in his teachings without a doubt. He was extremely engaged in all class conversations, and he gave constructive feedback on assignments that really made me think (and laugh!). Plus, he brought in guest speakers from the industry to talk about real-life experiences with DAM, which I appreciated.
What advice do you have for anyone at any career level who is considering taking the DAM certificate program?
Research, research, research. If you’re looking for a DAM certificate program, make sure it ticks all the right boxes for you. Research the program and read the course descriptions. Use resources like LinkedIn to reach out to alums (like me!) and ask them about their experiences with the program. You’re sure to find plenty of people who would do it all over again if they could.
Discover more about the Digital Asset Management (DAM) Certificate Program at the Rutgers School of Communication and Information on the website.
Photo: Courtesy of Monica Barudin
