#GradyGrit: Meet Marq Norris

How has Grady influenced your time at UGA?

Grady has allowed me to learn invaluable information from top journalists and practitioners, as well as my peers. Establishing relationships with these people has been the most invaluable takeaway from pursuing my education at Grady. I’m always absorbing more about media and public relations strategy from simply listening.

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

My mother and friends. Their love and support fuels me to do my best, and I’m incredibly grateful for them.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received from an instructor/mentor/family member?

A closed mouth won’t get fed.

What skills/knowledge will you take away from Grady?

Grady has given me amazing competency in my skills as a communicator and writer. Surprisingly, I find one of the rarest skills among people my age is the ability to effectively communicate, especially in times of crises. Grady teaches you to take hold of your emotions in any situation, analyze the scenario, and develop proper strategies to tackle your goals head-on.

What are you planning to do after graduating with a Grady degree?

I want to go to New York City and spread my wings. I hope to find a company or agency to grow with and become a master in the field of public relations. I also want to advance my modeling career and grow my personal brand. After a few years, I plan to pursue my Master’s degree in Strategic Public Relations at University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

What is the best or most rewarding part about being a Grady student?

The network connections, hands down. Not only do you learn from seasoned industry professionals that want to see you prosper, but you get access to an incredibly supportive community of leaders through Grady’s channels. It’s insane. In general, the University of Georgia has an astounding population of Dawgs. We go so hard for each other regardless of our field of study, so meeting Grady alum is practically like meeting new family.

What is your favorite quote?

“We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves” –Buddha

What was your summer highlight?

I would have to say getting scouted and signed to a modeling agency. I’m excited to make a career in helping others create art.

What was your proudest moment in the past year?

I’d have to say my proudest moment is being selected as a Grady Ambassador. I was chosen before I got my acceptance into Grady College, so it was nice to know that I made a great first impression.

What is your favorite place on campus?

North Campus Lawn. There’s nothing like lying out during a nice, sunny day. With some music and a good book, I could be there for hours.

Where do you get your news?

Since I’m always on the move, I always use apps. It’s weird, but I have a bunch of different outlets across a range of biases. I like to analyze the headlines and content from source to source as events happen in real-time. Language is a powerful tool, and I like to study how it influences society in times of worry, confusion, or curiosity.

Editor’s Note: Some of the above answers have been edited for length and/or clarity.

For other installments in the #GradyGrit series, visit the #GradyGrit page.