Angel Passailaigue
Public Relations Manager
South Carolina Aquarium

1. How did you get into PR?
Raised in a political environment, I learned early to deal with the public and the media at an early age. In college, I decided to major in Journalism with a specialty in Public Relations. Before graduating, I completed two incredible internships, one with World Cup Soccer and the other with the largest travel and tourism PR agency in Florida - Yesawich, Pepperdine and Brown. There I was involved with the launch of Disney Institute and many other national hotel property PR campaigns. It was a fascinating experience and led the way for me to continue in the field for the last six years. During this time, I have somehow managed to specialize in the Travel and Tourism PR industry.

2. Briefly describe your typical workday.
There is never a dull moment when surrounded by sharks, turtles, snakes and birds. I am either on the phone pitching media about our latest addition to the collection or I am showcasing the building in a behind-the-scenes tour. There are a lot of planning meetings to discuss current events and new activities. And any additional spare time is spent writing releases, answering phones calls and email requests or coordinating the community outreach campaign for the Aquarium.

3. What is the best part of your job?
Everything is amazing. I have the best job in Charleston. The staff and volunteers are incredibly talented. The animals are so remarkable and the guests always surprise me with their reactions. It is so nice to walk by the Great Ocean Tank, see a diver feeding fish, watch the turtle glide by and watch a child's reaction to all of the above. It is instant gratification and even better to be with a member of the media to witness it all.

4. What is the worst part of your job?
Not enough hours in the day to get it all done. And, dealing with negative people and negative comments. It is hard to handle anything negative about a project that is so positive.

5. What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned during your PR career?
"You Never Know!" This is my favorite motto and posted on my desk. You never know who you are talking to or interacting with. It could be a member of the media, a future volunteer, a potential donor or your next boss. Be careful what you say and do and always tell the truth!

6. What is the most unique thing about your company?
It is such a unique place for Charleston and unlike any aquarium in the country. It has an incredible view and some amazing creatures showcased. An example is the Robust Redhorse, an animal that was thought to be extinct for over 100 years. It was rediscovered by a Georgia DNR scientist in 1991 and we now showcase them in the Piedmont exhibit. The South Carolina Aquarium is the only aquarium in the country to display this precious fish. Stories like this one continue and I could go on forever.

7. What is your ideal dream job?
Even though this one tops it, I must confess that it has always been a dream of mine to open a multi-disciplinary art studio and provide free art space, art classes (visual, performing, etc.) for underprivileged children. Art makes the world a better place - as cheesy as that sounds - and study after study proves it. If I could provide that talent to those who can’t otherwise experience it, I would be extremely fulfilled. Another opportunity I would never pass up, was to become a publicist for a NFL player, team or even work for EPSN! I love football and would love to work in the field 24/7.