> Resume
Ben Matheson
Nome, Alaska and Minnesota
mathesonben[at] gmail [dot] com 507.402.4723 benmatheson.com
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of Arts (2009) Magna Cum Laude. Luther College, Decorah, Iowa.
- Major: Communication Studies, Minor: International Studies.
- GPA 3.7. Senior thesis: In Type We Trust: Typography and National Identity in the Age of International Style and Globalization.
EXPERIENCE
News Reporter(June 2010- Present)
KNOM Radio, Nome, Alaska
- I report, research, and produce news and feature stories and broadcast daily newscasts.
- I report from remote communities in Western Alaska and cover statewide issues and politics.
- I occasionally contribute to the Alaska Public Radio Network newscasts.
Intern (November 2009- May 2010)
Fast Horse Inc, Minneapolis, MN
- Provided support for media relations, market research, promotional events, and other projects.
- Coordinated video projects and designed presentations, twitter backgrounds, etc.
- Researched and wrote for media kits, social media content, and additional promotional materials.
Social Media Coordinator (January 2010- May 2010)
Finnegans Irish Amber, Minneapolis, MN
- Coordinated social media presence for a non-profit beer.
- Managed blogger and new media relationships.
- Assisted with the launch of new packaging, website, and viral promotions.
Vice President of Creativity and Innovation (2008-2009)
Luther College Entrepreneurship Club, Decorah, IA
- Founded and led the “Think Tank” group for current or future student entrepreneurs to collaborate, share ideas, network, and discuss topics related to entrepreneurship.
- Conducted public relations research and consulting for the Spectrum Network.
- Served as a session moderator at the 2008 College Entrepreneurs Organization National Conference.
Web Editor and DJ (2008-2009)
KWLC radio, Decorah, IA
- Coordinated online audio and written content for college radio station.
- Launched social media (facebook, twitter) outreach and advertising.
- Hosted weekly radio show and produced halftime news content for sporting events.
Lead Photographer (2005-2009)
Luther College Sports Information Department, Decorah, IA
- Photographed varsity sporting events, trained photographers.
- Launched an online photo store and created video content.
- Photographed the NCAA national basketball, wresting, and softball tournaments.
Design and Web Editor (2005-2007)
Luther Review (student-run newsmagazine), Decorah, IA
- Coordinated the publication’s design cycle from concept to print and web publication.
- Authored a monthly editorial graphic column.
- Led a complete redesign of the magazine and website.
Consular and Political & Economic Intern (Fall 2007)
United States Department of State
American Embassy, Oslo, Norway – Consular & Political/Economic Sections
- Assisted citizens with passports and federal services.
- Researched and reported political issues, wrote Ambassadorial briefing memos, and translated documents.
- Coordinated Embassy visits and special events, worked closely with colleagues at Norwegian MFA.
- Worked extensively with energy and environmental issues in the High North.
Head Cook & Staff Supervisor (2007-2008)
Concordia Language Villages, Norwegian Village –Skogfjorden
- Hired and supervised a staff of 8, wrote culturally authentic menus, ordered food, and managed a budget.
- Managed food production, led staff training, and coordinated organization-wide sanitation certification.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Studied in Denmark as a Rotary Exchange student, 2004-2005.
- Proficient in Danish and Norwegian (working language experience with State Department) and some Spanish experience.
- Senior paper was presented at the 2009 National Conference on Undergraduate Research.
- Member of Lambda Pi Eta – National Communication Honor Society.
- Luther College Presidential Scholarship recipient.
- Luther College Dean’s List, 2005-2009.
SKILLS
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Final Cut Pro
- Basic CSS-based and standards-compliant design
- Google Analytics and SEO tools
- WordPress platform
- Digital SLR photography, digital workflow, image editing
- Studio lighting
- Digital Video recording and editing.
- DVD production
RELEVANT COURSEWORK
- Principles of Marketing
- Design I
- Design II
- Persuasion Theory
- International Business Management
- Advanced Public Address
- Web Design and Communication Independent Study
- International Relations
- International Studies Capstone
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication