Fellow Farewell: Samantha Hines paves her way

Fellow Farewell: Samantha Hines paves her way

by Gabriela Bell

From her office in New York City, Samantha Hines, who wrapped up her strategic communications fellowship with Pattern this past February, gave me the rundown on her personal Pattern journey.

Hines attended University of North Carolina Chapel Hill where she majored in communications and media production, with a minor in writing for the screen and stage. She worked with cameras and audio, but found herself mostly writing creatively. She was drawn to Pattern’s impressive magazine graphics and overall brand aesthetic. “I first spoke to Polina and then to Jenny,” she says. “It seemed like a fun opportunity where I would grow as a writer more.” Specifically, Hines knew she could gain valuable copywriting and journalism-adjacent experience working with Pattern.

She speaks of her experience being initially hired as a project manager. “I think it made me a much better employee and dynamic person to work with,” she says. “I was writing and sending emails all the time and dealing with a bunch of different people from all walks of life.” Throughout the fellowship and now as she adjusts to her budding career, Hines’ confidence in her work and abilities is stronger. “I definitely feel like I take a lot more ownership over my work and the things that I do,” she says. “I find that balance of figuring out what I need to do on my own and asking for help when I need it.”

Her favorite project was Vol. 26, the Independent Issue, as it was her first time seeing a magazine develop from concept to complete issue. “It was really cool to be a part of that process,” she says. “In a company any bigger, I would not even be sitting in on those meetings.” 

On the topic of bigger companies, Hines recently started a full-time position with Hachette Book Group in New York City. She works in subsidiary rights, pitching and selling children’s books to foreign publishers (very wholesome, we know). She feels that her time with Pattern was a crucial step in preparing her for this professional milestone. 

Hines encourages anyone stepping into a position at Pattern to ask questions, of any kind, at any time. And, she says, don’t be afraid to speak up if there’s something you have a creative solution for. “People are really willing to hear your thoughts and it’s not only going to help Pattern, it’s going to help you learn a lot when you bring things up,” she says. “Use problem-solving skills to your advantage.” 

It’s true—here at Pattern, it’s all about the collaborative effort to strengthen and uplift the creative community and the individuals who work hard to make it tick. Hines is a great example of the opportunities that may fall in your lap when you get involved with us!

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