#ProfilesofTenacity: Nolan McGinley

Nolan McGinley is a third-year advertising student with a certificate in sustainability. He’s a project manager with Talking Dog Agency, and has handled the Arby’s account for the agency. He’s very involved with the UGA Catholic Center. McGinley says tenacity is about determination.

Why did you choose your major?

Once I transferred to UGA, I was torn between majoring in marketing and advertising. The aspect of Grady that made me decide on advertising was the culture of creativity and type of courses it offered. The strategy of communicating with people was top of mind when it came to a career I would want to work in. Because of this, advertising made the most sense to me and I am so glad I made that decision!

What is your most memorable Grady experience?

My most memorable Grady experience is the beginning of fall semester when I joined Talking Dog Agency hoping to gain some professional experience as a project manager. I was chosen to be a part of the team that would handle the Arby’s account for the agency; it has been such an honor. To be trusted to work with a high-profile client gave me confidence in the skills I have as a professional.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity means determination to go for it – whether that be sending out that cold LinkedIn message to a professional or speaking up when you need to. I believe tenacity has opened up many opportunities for me.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself continuing to work on the things I value the most. I hope to be in a leadership position that embodies these values.

What is the best piece of  advice you’ve received?

The best advice I’ve received is the bible verse saying “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). There is a joy in living in the present moment.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I have transferred schools twice, funny enough. My journey to UGA was a bit unorthodox. My freshman year, I attended Georgia State University during COVID-19. Then, spent a semester at the University of North Georgia. Then, I finally started at UGA for Spring 2022 semester.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

My biggest accomplishment in the past year was last summer when I had the opportunity to intern at Nasdaq as a corporate communication intern. Interning for a high-profile company showed me that my previous hard work paid off in earning this fortune.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to work in a marketing/communications role for a company that supports the values that are important to me. I hope to stay in the southeast area, but am open to work across the US. At the end of the day, I want to make sure the work that I am doing is making a positive impact on my community and the world.

Where is your go to restaurant in Athens?

My go-to restaurant in Athens is the Royal Peasant! Located in Five Points, it’s a small English pub that always has international soccer games on. The fish and chips with the tartar sauce are amazing.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite place on campus is the UGA Catholic Center. I have found a wonderful community of people there and absolutely love being able to serve in different capacities. Some of my closest friends have come from the center; it feels like a second home to me.