Get to know... Sophie McMillan

What’s a fun fact about you that most people wouldn’t know?

I like to dabble in the visual arts! Specifically illustration, watercolour and chalk pastels. Heading into 2027 I’m hoping to prioritize this hobby more.

What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend or day off?

This is a fun question! I love an Edmonton weekend. A great Saturday would start with a coffee from a local spot like The Colombian or District, roaming the Old Strathcona Farmers Market followed by lunch at Farrow, and then hosting friends in our backyard for a fire or having dinner and a glass of lambrusco at Olia.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Right now I’m planning a trip to Japan in a couple of weeks and I’m quite excited! Specifically for the ramen, 7-11s and bullet trains!

What's a hobby or skill you've recently picked up (or would like to try)?

Lately I’ve been trying to enhance my culinary skills, if you will. Testing out recipes so I can build a nice repertoire of recipes to fall back on whether for an easy dinner or when hosting friends and family. If you haven’t downloaded the New York Times Recipe app, now’s the time! The recipes are easy and always turn out great, even when a rookie cook like myself tackles a new recipe.

What's a book, movie, or TV show you're currently enjoying? 

I recently started watching Gilmore Girls! But I usually indulge in a Bravo show, specifically Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Salt Lake City, and New York. It’s a nice mindless way to end your day.

For books, I love a thriller or historical fiction read from Kate Quinn.

Do you have a favourite meal or go-to comfort food?

Any sort of pasta or ramen!

What inspires or motivates you the most in your day-to-day life?

My gal pals, partner and family. I'm lucky to be surrounded by so many kind, talented and driven people!

If you could have dinner with any historical or famous figure, who would it be and why?

Although I wouldn’t consider myself a “royalist,” sitting down with Queen Elizabeth or Kate Middleton would make for an interesting conversation.

Can you share a bit about your role and what brought you to the Alberta School of Business?

I had an amazing time as a BCom student at the U of A many years ago. When a marketing and communications position opened up over the summer it felt like the right time to try and join the school. And I’m so happy I did!

In my role and many other marketing roles, no day looks the same. Some days I’m locked in on social content planning and creation, while other days I’m working on scripts and storyboards for upcoming video projects. I love the variety that comes with being a marketer! 

What’s something about your job or department that you wish more people knew?

So much planning and creative storytelling goes on behind the scenes when it comes to the type of content shared on the ASB social channels. Managing an active social presence to ensure the content is impactful, useful, and showcases all of the amazing areas of the ASB is no joke!

What’s been your most memorable moment at the Alberta School of Business so far?

I’m pretty new to ASB but I recently volunteered at the undergrad orientation and met a bunch of excited and eager students. It reminded me of my time as a young BCom student.

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with a new colleague joining the school?

Get curious and say yes to new opportunities! I’ve always found the best way to learn about a new role is to chat with colleagues across all departments and say yes to any project big or small. You’ll learn quickly!