Profiles of Tenacity: Gabriana Carisma

Gabriana Carisma is a third-year Advertising major with a Business minor from Smyrna, GA, set to graduate in May 2025. She is the treasurer of Sigma Alpha Omega sorority and an active member of the Ad Club. Gabriana has gained valuable industry experience through multiple internships, furthering her passion for advertising. She is also the founder and owner of Carisma Creative Co., a small business she operates alongside her academic and professional pursuits.

Why did you choose your major?

For as long as I can remember I’ve been drawn to telling stories. I’ve always loved how stories can connect, inspire, and bring people together. Coming to college, I knew I wanted to find a major that would lead to a career where my passion for creativity and storytelling could thrive. After chatting with a few Grady students, I landed on advertising, a field that felt like a perfect fit. Advertising offered everything I was looking for, a blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and business insight, all grounded in the art of sharing a brand’s story with the world.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity, to me, is unstoppable persistence. It’s facing each day with determination to achieve your definition of success. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but to me, how you respond to those obstacles demonstrates tenacity.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s so much easier said than done but don’t compare your academic/career journey with those around you. Keep your eyes on your lane, and keep working towards your goals. One way or another you will get to your desired destination!

What motivates you?

A deeply rooted desire to never stop growing. Each day is truly a gift and I am motivated by the idea of blossoming into the best version of myself.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

My family and friends have always been at the heart of my support system throughout my time at UGA. But beyond them, my mentor, Sarah Bhalla, has made such a large impact on my journey here. Early on, I learned about the UGA mentor program in one of my first Grady courses, and I signed up right away. Connecting with Sarah was one of the best decisions I made. She has been an incredible blessing, offering wisdom and guidance from her own experiences—a refreshing perspective from someone who was in my shoes not too long ago. Her advice has been invaluable, and I’m grateful to have her as part of my support system.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with IPG, one of the “Big Five” advertising agency groups, as part of their Bold Beginners Program. I was placed in one of their healthcare advertising agencies, where I gained hands-on experience and insight into the ad industry. It was, without a doubt, the most valuable experience of my career so far, giving me the chance to grow professionally and deepen my understanding of advertising on a whole new level.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus has to be the Founders Memorial Garden. I love walking through it on my way to class—it’s so quaint and peaceful, and who doesn’t love being surrounded by flowers? Beyond its beauty, the garden holds a special place in my heart because my sorority hosts many of our events there. It’s become the setting for so many sweet memories during my time in college!

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

To my freshman self, I’d tell her, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. That’s where the real growth happens. You’d be surprised to see how far we’ve come!

Editor: Shannon Lorusso, sel67411@uga.edu