Orlando, FL

Public Relations, Spring 2017

Why did you choose UF and the College of Journalism and Communications?

I’m actually a second generation J-School Gator! My dad attended UF and was actually a Telecom major! (Fun Fact: He took Professor Roosenraad’s class in his undergrad, and then Professor Roosenraad was my professor last year!) So it was inherently in my blood to go here! Aside from that I knew that UF would provide me with the best opportunity to excel in this field. Plus, who wouldn’t pass up the chances to see games in the Swamp and the O’Dome!

Do you have a memorable experience/opportunity from your time in the CJC?

It sounds corny, but when I took Sports Media and Society, I finally found myself feeling comfortable in a class. I didn’t feel like I was fighting to pay attention, I actually enjoyed learning the materials and being in class. This led me to realize that I needed to focus on learning what makes me happy, and why try to conform myself to something else when I can do what I love!

What is the best class you’ve taken in the CJC and why?

Sports Media and Society! But, if I had to choose a non-sports class, I would say Public Relations Strategy and Public Relations Writing. These courses have helped me feel the most prepared in my field!

What makes the CJC so special?

We have such a unique environment here at the CJC. We’re more than just students and faculty, we’re an atmosphere of respect where everyone wants everyone to succeed. There is no competition, no one trying to beat out anyone for the highest grade, or best test score, we all just love to learn about what we love, and learn how to be successful in our own individual way! I have never once felt as if I didn’t belong or that I couldn’t succeed. Everyone’s office doors are always open, whether it be for class help, career help, or even just to chat. I’ve probably spent more time in the J-School than at my own room and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Have you had any experiences outside of the classroom (internships, covering a certain sporting event, etc.)? If so, tell us more.

Plenty! This past year I was lucky enough to cover Florida Gymnastics for floridagators.com. It has been an absolute blast. Coming off of taking reporting I felt so confident interviewing gymnasts, coaches, and everyone else, as well as writing on deadlines! I also had the chance to represent UF at the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament in Nashville this year. It was hands-down the best week of my life. I met so many people from all the different SEC schools and learned so much at the event being able to work with SEC professionals. We even got one-on-one time with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey!

Are you in involved anything in the CJC or within the University of Florida (Gatorvision? ESPN 850? AWSM? The Alligator? UAA?)? How has it benefitted you?

Within the college I am currently serving on the executive board of the College of Journalism and Communications Ambassadors! It has been a blast representing this college at the level I get to. I have learned so much about this college and the people within it. I have networked with faculty, other campus leaders, as well as future UF students and faculty. This has given me the chance to expand my knowledge of not only the PR program but everything the CJC offers. And we get super cool polos and name tags! Outside of the college I am serving as a communications assistant for the UAA! I have worked with the Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Baseball, and Gymnastics teams in a variety of areas. This has given me hands on experience in professional sports communication, and has opened doors to so many opportunities. The confidence this experience has given me is absolutely incredible. (Fun Fact: If you’ve ever picked up a game day program at Gymnastics or Softball that was made by me!)

What are your hopes, dreams, or plans after graduation?

I would love to be a communications director for a professional sports team! (Ideally some team in the NBA!) The CJC has given me the skills in not only communications itself, but the confidence that I can be successful. I’ve learned to much in the classroom that will help me, between writing skills, interviewing skills, even design!

Do you have any advice for incoming students or those interested in the CJC, especially in regard to starting their sports careers?

Be confident in yourself! There are so many people who will say a career in sports is hard, or a plethora of negative things. But what matters the most is what YOU think! If sports is what you love and what you want to do, then no one is stopping you! This college will absolutely give you the confidence and resources to go out there and do what you love! And never underestimate the power of being a Gator!