How I Got Here: Susan O’Sullivan

Keep up with Susan on LinkedIn!

What did you think you were going to be in elementary school or high school?

I really wanted to be a Rockette – which to be fair, is most dancers' dream. But during high school, I got burnt out from dancing every day and ultimately realized I wouldn't pursue dance as a profession.

However, I still take classes for pure enjoyment and I love every minute of it! I also briefly thought about becoming a marine biologist but quickly realized that was because I'm just an ocean lover and not great at science.

Did you study PR? If so, why? If not, what did you study?

Yes, I did! I started at my community college near me and received my Associate degree in Liberal Arts and then moved on to Social Media and Public Relations at Montclair State University. 

I always knew I wanted to do something that allowed me to show my creative side and collaborate with others. (I also knew I was not good at anything that included math so there was that!)

I also found a passion for American Sign Language in high school and I graduated with a minor in ASL as well. I wouldn't say I'm fluent by any means, but I know enough to communicate conversationally. One thing I loved about it was the culture surrounding the deaf community, it's something that many people don't even know about.

How did you make your way to Carve?

I made my way to Carve with the acquisition of Freeman Public Relations in November 2024. I started with Freeman in my last semester of college as an intern, and then full-time after I graduated. I’m grateful to continue my career with Carve and am looking forward to the future!

What do you do today at Carve?

Today I am an Account Coordinator working on the consumer side with toy clients such as PLAYMOBIL, Sky Castle Toys, Vango Toys, Hey Buddy Hey Pal, and more. I do anything from (but not limited to) writing pitches, blogger and influencer outreach, media scanning and tracking, trade show planning, and recently managed my first intern!

What is the coolest project you've ever worked on - anywhere?

One of my favorite projects I've worked on is when a group of classmates and I created, filmed, directed, danced, and edited a dance film during my sophomore year of high school. 

I attended a vocational school where I auditioned for their pre-professional dance program. This project focused on advocating for the arts. Many school districts cut art programs as they don't believe it's needed as much as other extracurriculars, like sports. I realized throughout my time there I didn't appreciate it as much as I should have while I was there! Check it out!

What is the career accomplishment you're most proud of?

One of the career accomplishments I’m most proud of was at Toy Insider's Sweet Suite this past summer. It was the first time I was responsible for organizing all my clients’ assets, forms, samples, and more. Honestly, it was a bit of a challenge—I don’t think people realize just how much goes into staying organized for trade and media shows! I definitely owe some credit to my colleague, Emily, who was there every step of the way and always believed in me.

I also worked with clients at the Chicago Toy and Game Fair. Over time, I’ve really come to love and appreciate in-person events. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing everything come together and work out. I’ve realized that in-person events are one of my strong suits—I’m a people person, and I’ve gained a lot more confidence as I’ve gotten older.

What is your superpower?

I believe my superpower is being adaptable and open. I’m always looking for ways to grow and improve, so I’m open to new opportunities and trying things in different ways.

I’d also describe myself as someone who’s generally positive. Of course, I have my off days, but overall, I try to keep a positive outlook on things!

What would you love to learn more about?

I’ve always loved jewelry, and recently, I’ve gotten interested in learning how to make rings and necklaces. I’ve been looking into silversmithing courses, but I’ve realized it’s something I’ll need to save up for.

Another thing on my vision board for the past couple of years is getting scuba-certified. I’ve always been drawn to the ocean and love swimming, so it’s something I’d really like to try. Hopefully, I’ll be able to set aside time to take the course next year!

If you were asked to teach someone how to do something in 5 minutes, what would it be?

I can teach someone how to fingerspell their name in ASL along with the simple greeting of meeting someone and asking for their name.