Profiles of Tenacity: LaDania Dean

Third-year advertising student LaDania Dean enjoys sharing her creativity and making a positive impact. She is interested in sports, videography, design and more.

Why did you choose your major?

I chose advertising as my major because it combines my passion for creativity with the opportunity to influence and impact people on a large scale. My biggest life goal is to leave the world better than I found it. As an agent of social change, empowerment, expression and information, advertising can create awareness, persuade viewers and influence the world.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity means being so determined and focused on your goals that nothing or no one can get in your way. To have tenacity means that you get up and try again after any failed attempt. No matter how many obstacles or challenges must be overcome, a tenacious individual maintains an unwavering sense of belief in themself and their ability to reach unimaginable heights.

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

Be yourself! Let your authentic self shine through your work, your relationships and your passions. Embracing your uniqueness will add to your personal brand, making you more memorable in networking situations and more effective as a leader in your field. As students who are entering such a competitive job market, your personality is one thing that is hard to replicate, so own it!

What is your most memorable Grady experience?

Although I am nowhere near finished making memorable experiences at Grady, one of my most memorable experiences thus far has been the New York Maymester Program. Not only did I meet the most amazing peers ever, but I also gained experience with networking and personal branding, while being exposed to several things that I otherwise wouldn’t have had access to. As a part of this experience, I had the opportunity to co-host a podcast where I was able to exercise my speaking skills, interview some amazing student guests and share my personal New York experiences. I am eternally grateful to have been a part of such an amazing program and I am thankful for its impact on my current studies and future goals.

How have the classes at Grady prepared you for your future?

The classes at Grady have prepared me for the future by equipping me with an understanding of the advertising field, the critical thinking skills necessary for problem-solving and polished portfolio add-ons. Each class provides students with hands-on experience about things we could encounter in the workforce. Whether it be designing graphic posters, creating branded games or learning useful research techniques, students are guaranteed to finish each class with one or more projects to add to their resumes, LinkedIn profiles and portfolios. This experience not only keeps students engaged but also prepares them for what’s next.

What motivates you?

Two main things that keep me motivated are my need to succeed and my desire to make a positive impact. My need to succeed keeps me tenacious and goal-oriented. It encourages me to set and work toward clear goals, in hopes of future and present success. In addition to this motivator, my desire to make a positive impact also keeps me going. Whether it’s in my personal life or work life, I find inspiration in knowing that my actions can contribute to a better world. Ultimately, the sense of purpose and the potential to create change keeps me inspired and focused on my goals.

What are you passionate about?

Currently, I am passionate about my academics, my personal growth and my impact on others. I also have a strong interest in videography, photography, sports, fashion, design, acting and music. These interests and passions are a source of creativity for me and allow me to pull inspiration from my environment.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Stop stressing so much about the future and live in the present. It can be easy to stress about what comes next, but by doing so you may miss what is right in front of you. By enjoying the now and appreciating every moment of the overall journey, your current experiences will begin to shape a beautiful future.