A Spartan’s Signature Scent
How MSU AD+PR alumni, Christa Akkary Carey, landed her full-time role for Parfums Christian Dior
By: Alaina Nofar
Christa Akkary Carey’s professional journey exemplifies how persistence, passion and strategic networking can shape a career in the world of fashion and luxury brands. Graduating from MSU with a degree in advertising in 2016, Akkary Carey had a winding path to discovering her calling. Today, she is thriving in New York City working for one of the most prestigious names in luxury beauty.
After graduating from MSU, Akkary Carey found herself beginning her career at an advertising agency. As part of a unique four-month rotational program, Akkary Carey had the opportunity to work on two different brands. She spent two months on the Richemont account, a luxury conglomerate as well as two months on the T-Mobile account. This experience exposed her to two vastly different approaches to advertising and marketing.
At Richemont, Akkary Carey worked on media strategy for high-end brands and learned how to communicate heritage and exclusivity. In contrast, her time on T-Mobile’s account had her managing massive advertising budgets and executing high-profile campaigns such as Super Bowl ads. The variety of experiences gave Akkary Carey an understanding of the industry and allowed her to discover her passion.
Her journey took a more specific turn when she joined Christian Dior Parfums in digital marketing. Working on the brand’s fragrance campaigns, Akkary Carey navigated the delicate balance between luxury and accessibility to help shape campaigns for products like Dior’s Sauvage. This experience solidified Akkary Carey’s passion for both the luxury and beauty sectors, providing her with valuable insight into how to make a high-end brand resonate with a wider audience.
When asked what advice she would give to students, Akkary Carey emphasizes that success requires humility and a willingness to do the grunt work.
“You have to be willing to roll up your sleeves. You always want to know that you put your best and most positive self forward. Any other negativity that’s on other people, but don’t let that be you,” she said.
Akkary Carey credits much of her professional journey to the foundation she built at MSU. The school’s strong alumni network and its career development services provided crucial resources for Akkary Carey. She took full advantage of networking trips like ADV 402, where she connected with industry professionals and learned about different career paths.
“It’s not so much about the major that is printed on your diploma, it’s about the experiences that you gain while on campus,” Akkary Carey said.
Living in New York City is not without its challenges, but she says she thrives on the energy of the city and the fashion world.
If you’re a student looking to break into the world of luxury fashion, start building your network and explore internship opportunities that align with your passions. Akkary Carey recommends taking advantage of the alumni network and the Career Center.