Profiles of Tenacity: Anna Kapustay

Anna Kapustay is a Double Dawg Master’s student in Integrated Advertising and Public Relations with minors in communication studies and business from Rome, Georgia. Set to graduate in May 2026, Kapustay serves as director of client relations at Talking Dog Agency and alumni communications assistant at The Red & Black.

Read her Q/A below.

Why did you choose your major?

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved to write. I originally chose Grady because of my passion and interest in storytelling. I believe that written words are among the most powerful ways to express yourself. Even beyond self-expression, I grew an interest in the way written words deliver information to the public and create a relationship with companies with their audience. When I learned about public relations, I discovered there was a way to blend writing, creativity and strategy and immediately knew it was for me. I never get tired of seeing the unconventional, innovative methods that companies and agencies communicate a central message, reposition their brand or launch a product. Because of my newfound love for analyzing campaigns, I will never watch an advertisement the same way again. I love the power and impact that PR can have. It can raise awareness, start movements and change a brand’s entire momentum. I hope to one day be able to contribute to the ever-changing world of media and create impactful PR campaigns that are seen by millions.

What does tenacity mean to you?

To me, tenacity means adaptability. The most perseverant people can evolve and acclimate to their surroundings in response to change. They use adversity as fuel instead of as an excuse. When things don’t go according to plan, tenacity is the ability to regroup, pivot and work toward a solution. Dwelling on uncertainty takes time away from tackling the problem at hand. Constantly maintaining a learning and growth mindset allows people to reach their full potential, because it prevents someone from settling. Tenacity is constantly adapting your plans in pursuit of the next goal, which ultimately results in success.

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

My biggest piece of advice that I would give to other Grady students is to build relationships. Grady gives you so many opportunities to create lasting and meaningful connections that will benefit your future so much. Throughout my time here, I have learned that everyone associated with Grady, whether that be faculty, staff or alumni, genuinely want to help. Be the student that goes to career fairs, talks to your professor after class and applies to multiple student organizations. Once you make the initial connection, be sure to maintain that relationship by checking in regularly. This alone has helped me so much and given me multiple recommendations for jobs and internships. It is also just as important to make connections with your peers! Through Talking Dog, I have made so many friends who I will stay in touch with and will go on to be some of the best in the business. Utilizing the resources that Grady provides to network with people all across the industry has opened more doors for me than I could ever imagine.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life?

My family has definitely had the biggest impact on my life. My mom, dad and sister have been my biggest supporters for as long as I can remember. Throughout my entire life, they have given me an environment where I can be myself and come as I am. When I am feeling stressed or discouraged, they are always there to uplift me, and when I have good news to share, they are there to cheer me on. The values they have demonstrated and instilled in me since I was young have given me the desire and determination I need to reach my full potential. They are my best friends, and I have no idea what I would do without them in my corner. I truly owe it all to them.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

This year, I was one of four recipients of the AdPR Excellence Student Scholarship Award. I earned this through being selected by Grady faculty and staff to submit for PRWeek’s Student of the Year award, in which I created a fully integrated hypothetical campaign for the U.S. Soccer Federation. I learned so much through the experience and was honored to be selected. I could not have done it without Dr. Meng’s and Professor Deutsch’s support!

What is your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite place on campus is Sanford Drive. When I am driving home, I purposely take the long way just to pass the stadium. It never gets old and always fills me with such a strong sense of school pride. It’s always my go-to route when showing my friends from out of town around campus, because there’s nothing like the moment when the trees clear and Sanford Stadium appears. Bonus points if it’s the night before gameday, when Sanford’s lights make the entire sky red!

What advice would you give to your future self?

The best advice I would give to my freshman self would be to live in the moment. In college, it can be hard to not always plan for the future. I would always put a lot of pressure on myself to stick to this perfect agenda. In reality, you don’t have to have everything figured out so early. Everything will work out the way it is supposed to. It is much more beneficial to be where your feet are and enjoy the moment that you’re in! College is a time in your life that you can never get back, and if you wish it away by stressing over the future, you are missing out on core memories that you will remember forever.

Editor: Anyi Morfaw, abm40431@uga.edu