CHASS Student of the Month – September 2008

Tensie Taylor

• Home Town: Louisburg, NC
• Class: Senior
• Major(s):
  • Communication Media
• Sample Courses:
  • Media Writing
  • Critical Analysis of the Media
  • Media and the Family
  • Learning and Motivation
• Activities:
  • Summer Internships at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, IBM, and Nortel Networks
  • President, African American Heritage Society
  • Resident Advisor
  • Chancellor’s Aide
  • CHASS Ambassador
• Honors:
  • University Scholars Program
  • William T. Kretzer Scholarship
  • Golden Chain Honor Society
  • Winner, Alpha Phi Alpha Oratorical Contest
  • Winner, Phi Beta Sigma Essay Scholarship
  • Ebony Harlem Award for Musical Excellence
• Postgraduate Plans: To be employed in the field of Corporate Communications; to obtain an MBA.
• Career Goals: Vice President of Corporate Communications for a major organization.

Why did you choose CHASS?

Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved writing and speaking. I used to pretend that I was holding a microphone and anchoring the news! I knew CHASS had a great Communication department, and with a Communication degree, there are so many avenues open to you. It really prepares you to do anything in corporate America.

What do you enjoy most about being a CHASS student?

The professors! They really engage you – you don’t just sit there and laboriously take notes. It’s a very interactive experience and it makes learning fun. The professors are also really approachable. For example, I can have them proofread my papers before submitting the final draft.

What has been your greatest challenge here at NC State?

Balancing time. I am involved in so many things – activities, being an RA, schoolwork, time for myself. It’s important to get a planner and map out my schedule.

How has college changed you?

I used to be much more shy, but I realized it is truly competitive in the real world. To succeed, you need to develop your personality skills and network – move out of your own shell. I started to approach professors more and get involved with activities that allowed me to become more outgoing.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Get involved! Make a positive name for yourself and do your best. Grades are certainly important, but extracurriculars have a lot to teach you as well. Internships are also a fantastic way to learn about careers – my three internships helped me refine my career choices, network, and gain valuable experience. Learn, but don’t forget to have fun!

Nominate a student for CHASS Student of the Month.