Grant Gurewitz, BS ‘13
Job Title: Integrated Marketing Manager, Qualtrics
Major: Journalism, Public Relations
Part of the Daily Emerald "Alumni Take Flight" Series

After graduating from the University of Oregon in 2013, Grant Gurewitz made the decision to explore his interests in communication and technology in one of the most high-tech cities in the world — Seattle. There, he applied himself and found great success, working for corporations like Zillow and the Port of Seattle in lead marketing roles. He is currently the Integrated Marketing Manager at Qualtrics, an experience management company based out of Seattle. Grant also serves on the board of directors for the UO Alumni Association.

How do you think reliance on technology has affected the communication field?

Technology and communication are obviously well-connected. In our current society, reliance on technology is very prevalent. I think it is incredible and beneficial in a lot of ways, but it is often misused. It’s important to figure out how to use technology in a more intentional manner, rather than being so reliant on it. Our society hasn’t really been bored in a long time with the help of cell phones — something that draws our attention most of the time. In my opinion, not being bored inhibits our ability to daydream or think more deeply about certain things that matter to us. Social media platforms and certainly email are very important in my career, but it’s still important to take time to disconnect too.

How has your knowledge of technology been beneficial in your career?

A lot of my jobs over the years have involved thinking about how to use technology effectively to communicate and reach people. Having a sense of the digital landscape is really important, and understanding how to conceptualize and use the right tools is valuable. Recognizing certain digital trends and knowing how they relate to and how they will affect particular circumstances has proven to be very beneficial in my career.

How have communication skills played a crucial role in your career path?

Communication is probably the most important skill to possess, whether you are in a communications job or not. How you communicate with your colleagues and customers is something you must consider. Being really open and forthcoming, but also knowing how to package your words correctly will help make you successful. Knowing how to communicate both through email and in person is imperative. Understanding the ins and outs of how to effectively communicate with someone has been very important to me in terms of the workplace.

How did you go about developing those skills at UO?

While in college, getting experience is one of the most important things you can do. I had the opportunity through my classes at UO to work in “real world” situations. I worked with local businesses, completed internships and spent some time at the Emerald, which helped me get a lot of various perspectives in different work environments. I gained so much useful insight relating to technology and communication through these experiences. I always say doing a variety of internships in different areas is helpful for discovering what you want to do, and exactly what you don’t want to do.

Do you have any advice you’d like to share with current students and recent graduates?

Do not be afraid to ask questions. Make conversations around what you want to see happen. The worst possible outcome is that someone says no to you. But the best outcome is that you have an amazing discussion with someone about the things you want to examine. Do not be afraid to respond to people, and consider brainstorming your thoughts on a piece of paper rather than finding comfort on your phone. Ultimately, just give yourself some time to disconnect and find some space for yourself. It’s easy to get wrapped up in social media, emails or even something your professor said. Just giving yourself some time to figure out how to process it all, and the best way to move forward, is super important.



Written by Skylar Anderson, Daily Emerald Reporter