Ever thought about what your professor’s life is like outside of the classroom? Maybe you’ve wondered what fuels their morning, pondered their go-to pump up song, or why they feel so connected to the Emerson community. To take a sneak peek behind the podium, we’re launching a new Emerson Grad Life series where each installment features a fast-paced interview with a different graduate-level professor.
To kick things off, we’re chatting with Doug Quintal, a professor and Senior Executive-in-Residence in Emerson’s Department of Marketing Communication. Professor Quintal has served as the Graduate Program Director, Undergraduate Program Director, and Internship Coordinator during his time at the College. He’s also led Emerson’s national advertising competition team to five New England District championships! His first book, Full Metal Branding: How Heavy Metal Can Make Us Better Marketers, Brand Strategists, and Entrepreneurs, was published in 2023, and an article about his intersecting interests has even been featured in the Berkeley Beacon. Read on to find out who this professor is beyond office hours.
Coffee, tea, or something else; what fuels your morning?
Coffee—usually Death Wish—at least two cups. My morning playlist also helps. It includes tracks from Slayer, Metallica, Ghost, Slipknot, Butcher Babies, & In This Moment among others.
What’s your favorite thing about working with grad students?
Their levels of creative problem solving, inquisitiveness, and passion & commitment to the subject matter.
What’s one book, TV show, or podcast you think everyone should know about?
Letterkenny. It is quite possibly the funniest TV show ever. Given the current political climate, we definitely need more opportunities to laugh.
What’s a hobby or interest of yours that might surprise your students?
Some students are aware of this, but many are not – I make my own line of BBQ sauces. The brand is called Black Mass BBQ Sauce.
If a prospective student asked you, “Why Emerson?,” what would you tell them?
I genuinely believe Emerson lies at the heart of creativity and innovation. This is evident in the faculty, the course offerings, and the types of students we attract. The education is not pedestrian. We groom the most creative and insightful minds to succeed in their chosen fields.
We hope this series helps current and prospective students connect more deeply with the faculty that make the Emerson community so strong. Keep an eye out as we continue this series—your favorite professor might just be featured!
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