Developing the Expertise to Grow into More Senior Roles: Kris Vinay, MAPC ’19

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For Kris Vinay, a seasoned technical communicator who transitioned into the dynamic world of UX writing and content design, his career trajectory took a significant turn when he decided to pursue an MAPC at the University of San Francisco (USF). Having already established himself as a technical writer, Kris felt a pull towards understanding the deeper nuances of how communication resonates and builds connections with audiences. This curiosity led him to USF, seeking to build a robust foundation in communication principles and explore its creative potential under the guidance of insightful professors.

What set USF's MAPC program apart for Kris was its emphasis on experimentation and the opportunity to creatively apply communication fundamentals. Situated in San Francisco, a hub of both culture and technology, the university offered an ideal environment for growth, which was a factor in his decision to attend USF. Once he joined MAPC, Kris chose the Technical and Strategic Communication concentration, a decision that strategically aligned with his tech industry background while allowing him to hone his skills in messaging, strategy, and user experience. This focused approach proved instrumental in positioning him for more advanced roles where he could influence product narratives and shape content strategy.

The MAPC program at USF played a pivotal role in shaping Kris's perspective on communication and refining his professional skills. He credits the program with pushing him beyond the traditional boundaries of technical writing, fostering a deeper understanding of audience needs and the power of timely and authentic messaging. One piece of advice from Professor David Ryan particularly resonated with him: “Don’t fall in love with your writing. It’ll be torn apart and put back together, with barely any semblance of what it was originally.” This, Kris explains, was a crucial lesson in adaptability and focusing on the evolving needs of content, a skill vital for thriving in the fast-paced tech industry. He also highlights the collaborative environment within the program, noting that navigating diverse opinions and aligning perspectives during group projects was a challenging yet essential skill he honed. “Writing invites opinions, and learning how to navigate egos, align perspectives, and still push work forward was both a challenging and vital skill to hone. Choosing your battles and setting aside your ego when you're not in the right applies across all workstreams.”

Kris also appreciates the program’s professors and supportive staff, and valuable networking opportunities he experienced thanks to them. He particularly underlines how he never felt weighed down by administrative tasks during his time at MAPC, which freed up time to focus on what mattered most.

One thing I wish I’d done differently? Been less reserved around the teaching staff. They’re approachable, collaborative, and bring years of industry experience. Networking, I learned, is a skill developed through experimentation and persisting beyond n+1 ‘nos.’”

Now a successful Content Designer, Kris reflects on how his MAPC degree provided him with the expertise to ascend into more senior roles. He finds immense satisfaction in mentoring others and leveraging his understanding of content design's impact. Looking back at his time at USF, Kris expresses a sense of nostalgia and admiration for those embarking on the MAPC journey. “I wish I were where new students are right now — at the start of something truly rewarding,” he says. His fond memories of his time at USF and his belief in the program's transformative potential leave him with a touch of envy for the future students poised to discover its enriching opportunities.