Meet Melissa Patterson-Adams, Digital Community Engagement Specialist at Virtua Health.
How do you define success? I’m very big on putting an idea out into the universe and letting it manifest. If there is something I really want, I talk about it. Whether it’s a spiritual conversation or a conversation with my mother or husband, I find it important to talk about my goals in great detail. In fact, the more specific I am the better. If I’ve put an idea out in the universe and I am fortunate to see it come into fruition, then that’s success for me. I may not have a massive bank account, drive a fancy car or live in a big house. However, if I put my mind to something whether big or small and I’ve made it happen then I have all the riches I need.
Do you have a quote, song or person that inspires you?
“Accept both compliments and criticism. It takes both sun and rain for a flower to grow.”
Life is full of peaks and valleys. While we all love being up, I’ve learned to embrace the curveballs. My friends often tell me that when the world sees bad, I manage to find good. I used to think that was a flaw or weakness but it helps me keep my inner peace in check. To bring it home, this quote has helped me grow beyond my wildest dreams. There is beauty in the storm as well as the sun after the rain stops. You need them both to flourish. I remember that with every step I take. What’s your favorite thing about living or working in Philly? Recently, I started a role with Virtua Health in New Jersey as a Digital Community Engagement Specialist. However, I had the pleasure of working in Philadelphia for five wonderful years. Philadelphians are so proud and so loyal. It’s a pleasure being a marketer in Philly. I miss the people and their energy the most. I am a die-hard Jersey girl but Philadelphians have a spirit like no other.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career to date?
The biggest lesson I learned in my career is to show up and to show up in a big way. Naturally, I’m a bit more reserved than I think my industry calls for which is why I gravitated towards a career in social media and digital marketing. 6-7 years ago, digital marketing was a new concept for many businesses, so I was able to play a pivotal role behind the scenes just the way I liked it. I was able to make a splash by introducing companies to new platforms, taking pretty pictures and crafting witty copy. However, I knew there was a wave coming and I wanted to catch it.
Digital marketing quickly evolved and I realized that it was not okay to just put in my hours and turn in work. It was important for me to blossom personally and professionally, so I wouldn’t get left behind. Someone once told me that I needed to find my voice. I thought about what that meant in a professional setting. Then, I took it and ran with it. I began to ask for a seat at the table. I was very strategic about finding the perfect time to speak in meetings. I shared big, out of this world ideas knowing they may never get approved. I started to show up with intention and my career began to grow.
It was important for me to blossom personally and professionally, so I wouldn’t get left behind. Someone once told me that I needed to find my voice. I thought about what that meant in a professional setting. Then, I took it and ran with it.
What’s an accomplishment you’re most proud of?
As cliche as it sounds, my biggest accomplishments are my children, Mason and Paige. I love them completely. They are my driving force. However, I recently birthed a third baby called Melissa Jay Photography! Five years ago, I picked up a camera as a Digital Marketing Administrator to take photos for my job’s social media accounts. Within the last two years, what was once a tool for my role in marketing blossomed into a passion for photography. My awesome husband gifted me a camera. Then, my friends and family began asking me to photograph them and life’s big moments. Before I knew it my passion turned into a small business. I’m learning a lot each day but I'm loving the brand I’m building. I’m building a body of work that people enjoy and that feels major. I am literally steering the ship on this. That’s an accomplishment.
Follow Melissa on instagram at @melissajayphoto or visit her website at
Comments