SXSW opened student Anne Fink’s eyes to new career opportunities and passions

Anne Fink, a senior music production and recording industry major with a marketing minor from Polk, Ohio, found a new career interest during her 10-day SXSW experience. Originally wanting a career producing music, Fink spent a lot of time at SXSW immersed in gaming and social media influencing, finding a whole new career option and passion.

“I wanted to go to SXSW to try and expand my network of people within the music industry and I actually ended up realizing that maybe music isn't for me,” Fink said. “The more I networked and talked about music, the more I realized my heart wasn't in it. However, I did find that I was much more excited to talk to people about my work in the influencer management and branding space, which is what I currently work in. Once I realized this, I did make some really cool connections.”

Fink’s day would normally start around 10 a.m. with a panel or two, her favorites being the Social Influence for Social Good panel and the Keynote Lizzo panel. The Social Influence for Social Good panel included a talk with MatPat from The Game Theorists, a YouTube channel that focuses on video game theories, where he talked about his annual livestream that benefits St. Jude’s Hospital. The Lizzo panel featured the artist herself sharing uplifting words and highlighting how she’s an entertainer in all facets of her life.

Following the morning panels, Fink would enjoy some of the delicious food Austin had to offer, noting that she did not have a bad meal the entire time there. After lunchtime, she would connect with industry professionals at mentor sessions, take part in a Women in Music networking hour, and attend concerts in the evening, including Dolly Parton and Magdalena Bay.

“Maybe someday I'll return to music because I really enjoyed talking about music in gaming as well, but not right now. I made connections and most importantly learned more about where I want my career to go,” Fink said.

Fink’s goal for the future is to master the art of influencer management while starting her career in Los Angeles.