Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS? I took an elective class my freshman year, taught by Dr. Charles  Parker. I’d always had an interest in communication – actually, broadcast journalism. He persuaded me to declare the major, as an internship program was being launched. I was the first communication intern and did two “tours” in the news departments of TV stations in Wilmington and Raleigh. I liked most that, while the department was small in number of students and faculty, we were engaged and given so many opportunities to do more than just coursework. 

How did your communication degree help shape your career path? I was encouraged by faculty to pursue advanced degrees and was accepted into the graduate schools of Syracuse University and the University of Georgia. But I elected to postpone that, as a nonprofit organization recruited me to produce radio and television programming and write features for the member magazine. As my skill set and professional network developed, I assumed increasingly higher communication positions in government, industry and consulting.

Advice to your freshman self? Embrace opportunities presented to you and don’t fear the unknown! On a practical level, take every writing course that you can.

Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS?

From an early age, I was fascinated by radio, television and advertising. That passion is what brought me to NC State and CHASS. At the time, the Department of Communication was small, which meant you really got to know everyone in the program. The smaller classes also encouraged close interaction with professors, and it was clear they genuinely cared about their students.

How did your communication degree help shape your career path?

Earning my degree taught me the value of listening before responding. Marketing and sales really come down to understanding people and helping to meet their needs. It also reinforced the importance of always learning — whether that’s keeping up with new products and technology or sharpening my ability to write strong advertising copy and articles.

What advice would you give your freshman self?

Embrace opportunities wherever they show up. Be willing to try new things, push your comfort zone and face rejection without fear. Build trust by showing others they can rely on you. And always be happy for your friends — help them whenever you’re able.

Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS?

I was always interested in communication, especially radio. When you couple that with my love for sports, it was a natural fit. Networking and working hard — especially the working hard part — has served me well. Oddly enough, I have never worked in radio since college; it’s always been television. The professors are what made CHASS sing for me, especially Ed Funkhouser (my advisor), Jim Alchediak and Robert Schrag. Ed laid the bones for a great background, Jim taught me the love of production and storytelling, and Bob taught me to question everything — from a rational, critical eye.

How did your communication degree help shape your career path?

The degree got me in the door, but the fundamentals were set at CHASS. The professors actively cared about their students and polished us, which made us better. Those building blocks helped me grow quickly as I went to California after graduation. I gained hands-on experience in all aspects of early production and was involved from the beginning with NBC, FOX News, and FOX Sports at NC State. What a training ground!

What advice would you give your freshman self?  

Take chances! Even now, I take chances every day. It’s the only way you will grow. Nothing easily gained is truly earned. It will haunt you if you don’t earn it. I have seen it time and time again. And ABL — Always Be Learning. 

Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS?

Becoming a public speaker at the age of four inspired me to major in communication! My amazing father, who is an angel now, taught me Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. I memorized this speech in a week. To this day, I can still recite it from memory. This opened my eyes to the world of communication! What I liked most about studying communication at CHASS was my professors! I had phenomenal professors who challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively and use my degree to make this world a better place.

How did your communication degree help shape your career path?

It allowed me the opportunity to work for the president of the UNC General Administration System after I graduated. Following this, I returned to NC State and worked for the Office for Institutional Equity and Diversity. I then moved to Los Angeles and graduated with a Master of Education from the University of Southern California. Currently, I have a consulting business. Being confident in my communication prepared me to hobnob with Oprah, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Denzel!

What advice would you give your freshman self?  My advice is to take advantage of opportunities! Join clubs and organizations, hold leadership positions, study abroad, and go to your professors’ office hours and get to know them because you may need a letter of recommendation from them, and the more they know about you, the more awesome the letter will be. Also, have fun! Go to events, date, meet new people, hang out with friends, and stay safe and healthy. It is important to find the right balance.

Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS?

As someone who has admired speech, reading and writing since childhood, studying communication felt like a natural fit. I enjoyed my years in CHASS, as it involved critical thinking, tackling complex ideas alongside peers and provided an outlet for creativity. 

How did your communication degree help shape your career path?

Communication is such a versatile field of study; it’s all about how you market yourself. I was adamant about becoming a newscaster and knew the applied, hands-on courses would help develop necessary skills. Courses like Television Production, Electronic Media Writing, and Digital Video Production fostered my appreciation for storytelling by combining words with video. 

What advice would you give your freshman self?  

Don’t wait until your junior and senior years to start networking/looking for internships! Hit the ground running as soon as you are on campus, your freshman year. Stay up to date with the trends of the industry you’re interested in – it may look completely different by the time you obtain your degree! 

Why major in communication, and what did you like most about studying it at CHASS?

Communication sits at the center of everything we do—our relationships, leadership, media and how we operate in this world together. I knew early on that, no matter which industry I entered, a strong foundation in communication would be an asset. At NC State, I was able to tailor the degree through its three concentrations. By focusing on interpersonal, organizational and rhetorical communication, I was able to complement my psychology minor and my sociology degree, deepening my understanding of the social sciences.  

How did your communication degree help shape your career path?

My degree laid the foundation for both my graduate studies and professional work. After graduating, I continued studying communication at NC State at the master’s level and then transitioned into a leadership and organizational development consulting practice. The discipline sharpened my ability to listen actively, think systemically and approach work with intentionality, skills I use as a self-employed consultant. I partner with organizations across the country on leadership development and operational support, work that is deeply rooted in the social sciences.

What advice would you give your freshman self?  

Squeeze your degree! Take as many classes as you can, network with your peers and organizations, and make the most of your time at NC State. What you put in is what you get out.