Profiles of Tenacity: Kayla Freeman

Fourth-year advertising major Kayla Freeman is driven to succeed by the community around her and the values the opportunities she’s found through the college. Read on as she shares her experience in Grady.

Why did you choose your major?

In my sophomore year, I made the decision to transfer from Clemson University to the University of Georgia. While at Clemson, I pursued a major in Graphic Communications, which I really enjoyed. However, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career that would offer more of a balance between creativity and business, which is how I decided on advertising. I am drawn to advertising because it blends creativity with strategic thinking. It offers so many opportunities and avenues, making it an incredibly versatile field.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity embodies a determination and resilience to pursue my goals relentlessly, even in the face of obstacles or setbacks. It’s also about embracing the journey, even when the destination may change, and being flexible enough to redirect efforts while staying committed to personal growth and achievement.

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

I would tell other students to take advantage of the opportunities Grady offers, whether that be clubs, site visits to companies, attending guest speakers, becoming an ambassador and more. These are easy ways to figure out what you like and don’t, and can help you make connections not only with fellow students but also with industry professionals.

What’s the best of advice you’ve ever received?

My sister has always told me to utilize LinkedIn! While it may seem like a basic approach, I’ve personally experienced remarkable success by reaching out to professionals on the platform to inquire about their careers or potential job opportunities. I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming responses I received. In fact, I even secured multiple internships by cold messaging—both opportunities that wouldn’t have materialized otherwise.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

I would tell myself that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. No matter how hard I plan, the plans will most likely change. However, try to remember to embrace the change because it tends to have better outcomes and opportunities for growth than the plans I originally had.

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

Enrolling in the New Media Certificate program has been the most transformative experience of my time at UGA. It introduced me to a world where technology merges with creativity, and exposed me to career possibilities previously unknown to me. Notably, I secured an internship at Delta Airlines through connections I made during a field trip to their headquarters. That experience has deepened my enthusiasm for enhancing consumer experiences through the fusion of technology and strategic thinking, which I don’t think I would have received without the certificate.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus is the lawn near the Chapel Bell, especially in the springtime.

What motivates you?

Initially, I assumed that entering college would immediately unveil my passion, yet I’ve come to realize that life isn’t always so straightforward. Despite the challenges this realization presents, I remain motivated by the prospect that every new endeavor I try holds the potential to unearth a passion previously beyond my imagination, and that keeps me going.

Editor: Morgan Jones | morgan.jones2@uga.edu