By Ashly Jobbins

Melissa MacDonald
A Tarleton State University graduate student received several opportunities with
Southwest Airlines after pursuing a degree in speech communication in December,
2011.
Melissa MacDonald currently works as a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines and is
LUVing it. After she graduated, she initially started as an intern for Southwest on the
Charitable Giving team in the Communication and Strategic Outreach Department. After
Melissas internship concluded, she a received a position as a Coordinator/Rapid
Rewards Liaison in Southwests Customer Relations Department for one year.
Flying is the perfect job for me, Melissa said. She loves the schedule, loves being on
her feet constantly, loves being active, and loves the diversity of her job from day-to-day.
She enjoys meeting and interacting with the many interesting people that come and go
between passengers and co-workers.
Melissas degree has mainly helped her so much with writing. As a coms major you
write, write, write, Melissa said. All of her college writing has helped in her career as
well as working and communicating with others. A few specific classes in particular have
stuck with her: interpersonal communication and organizational communication like
intercultural sensitivity. For Melissa, it is extremely important that she communicates
clearly and effectively while on the airplane.
Her biggest advice to every current student is, STUDY HARD! Make sure to always put
forth your best effort and thorough work. Also, be diverse! Reach out and meet as many
different people as possible.
Through her time with Southwest Airlines, Melissa has learned safety regulations
specifically pertaining to the job and the airline industry. Shes also learned several
creative thinking skills that may have not applied in college.
Special memories to Melissa include walking around and experiencing campus and
attending fun classes and working out at the rec. She particularly enjoyed the family
atmosphere at Tarleton, Homecoming, the sporting events, and of course... all the
dancing!
Within the next five years, Melissa hopes to work her way up in the Inflight Department
at Southwest. Shes interested in training and teaching new flight attendants as well as
their Inflight Leadership Team. After additional experience she would be thrilled to be
able to lead men and women in the industry. Working her way back to communications
isnt off her radar yet!
Melissa was involved with many things on campus during her Tarleton years. From
teaching Zumba at the recreation center, to being involved in SGA, she hopes to leave a
legacy of strong work ethic centered around faith and fun.