How Career Services Launched a Psychology Major’s Success in the Music Industry

Choosing the right career path can be overwhelming for many college students. Whether you’re just beginning your college journey or approaching graduation, understanding how to navigate the professional world is essential. In this Q&A, St. John’s University alumnus Jason Patrick Wright ’23C shares how career services provided the support and resources he needed to build confidence, explore his passions, and land his dream job. He shares his journey from studying psychology to breaking into the music industry, thanks to guidance from the University’s career services.

Key highlights from this interview include

• How career services can help you navigate career uncertainty and transitions
• The power of networking and utilizing campus resources effectively
• Practical advice on pursuing a passion-driven career

Q&A: Jason P. Wright’s Journey from Psychology Major to a Music Industry Career  

Can you share your background and what influenced your decision to choose your major in psychology at St. John’s University?

I grew up in New Jersey, born in Staten Island. I’ve always had a goal of making the world a better place. From a young age, I believed psychology was the best way to contribute to that goal. If I could help just one person or bring peace to a chaotic household, I’d fulfill my purpose. That’s why I chose psychology as my major. 

As for St. John’s, it was the last school I visited on a long weekend of college tours. I was drained and didn’t even want to be there. But as soon as I stepped on campus, I had this burst of energy—I knew it was where I wanted to be.  It felt like fate brought me to St. John’s. 

I got involved in student clubs, built valuable connections, and had the incredible opportunity to work at the Office of Gift Planning under the mentorship of Susan M. Damiani, M.B.A. ’87CBA. That job, and the networking opportunities it provided, were instrumental in helping me develop key skills and a professional mindset. St. John’s opened doors I never expected, and I made the most of every chance to grow personally and professionally.

Career Guidance That Transformed Uncertainty into Opportunity

How did St. John’s career services play a role in helping you find your path?

The advisers in University Career Services were tremendous in helping me figure out my professional path. A friend referred me to Kenneth Emeghebo, Associate Director of Career and Internship of First Year Advising at St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. I initially approached him feeling unsure about what I wanted. I told him I loved psychology, had sales experience, and musical talent, but I had no idea what to do with that combination. 

Kenny helped me break it all down. Over the course of three months, we met weekly. Some days, we worked on my résumé; other times we just talked about life. He encouraged me to take risks and put myself out there, reminding me that St. John’s offers plenty of excellent services—but you must be proactive and use them. Kenny wasn’t just an adviser; he was also a mentor.

Related: Career Success Starts Here: Maximizing Your College Career Services

What made you choose to work in the music industry?

I’ve always had a passion for music—it’s therapeutic for me. I still create music and even had the chance to perform at Storming Loud in 2022 and open for Sleepy Hallow.  I’m a huge fan of live music. When I got the chance to intern at Universal Attractions Agency in January 2023, it just felt right. They offered me a full-time position three months into my internship, and I’ve been working there ever since. I’m now working at a talent agency, working with music and talent I am truly passionate about. Music is therapy and merging that with my career has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.

How do you think your career path would look if you hadn’t utilized career services?

I wouldn’t have been as confident in pursuing a music career. It’s a tough industry to break into, and without Kenny’s support, I might have doubted myself or taken the wrong steps. Kenny always had my back, and his belief in me gave me the push to go after what I wanted. Without career services, I might have given up on my dream.

Essential Career Advice for Students: How Mentorship Guides Your Path

Did Kenny give you any specific advice that made a lasting impact on your career decisions?

Absolutely. One thing that stuck with me was Kenny’s advice to “take one step back to go two steps forward.” He taught me that life isn’t about instant gratification—you must be patient, work hard, and make sacrifices. There were times when I felt unsure about my career path, but Kenny gave me the confidence to pursue a music career, even when it seemed like a tough industry to break into. He was honest and blunt—if something didn’t make sense to me, he’d tell me straight up. That honesty was invaluable. Without his guidance, I probably wouldn’t have had the courage to take the leap into the music industry. 

What advice would you give students who are hesitant to reach out to career services?

Change your mindset about what an adviser is. Think of them as mentors, not just people who help you fix your class schedule or get a job. Career services aren’t just there for when things go wrong—they’re a resource to help you plan, strategize, and grow. You must be willing to ask for help and collaborate. Use the resources St. John’s offers, network, and, most importantly, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

Start Building Your Future at St. John’s University! 

Jason P. Wright’s success story shows how valuable career services can be for St. John’s students as they navigate their careers. Whether you are beginning your journey or considering a career change, having the right support and mentorship can lead to long-term success. Get in touch with St. John’s University Career Services to find out how they can help you take the next step toward your future.

University Career Services
St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, Campus 
718-990-6375 
[email protected]