Profiles of Tenacity: Riley Miller

Riley Miller is a fourth year public relations major, with a minor in fashion merchandising, from Braselton, Georgia. She is set to graduate in May 2025. Miller completed an internship in London last summer with British Forces Broadcasting Services and currently serves as the social media director for the Public Relations Student Society of America.

Read her Q/A below.

Why did you choose your major?

I’ve always loved finding creative outlets and ways to connect with people. Public relations has allowed me to turn that passion into a career.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity means showing up especially when it’s hard. You don’t get anywhere by standing still. Even when things get tough, pushing forward, no matter how small the step, is what keeps the doors open for opportunity. Not being perfect but just being persistent. 

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

One piece of advice I’d give to other Grady students is to not let fear or rejection hold you back. Imposter syndrome is real, and it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong or aren’t qualified, especially in a competitive environment like Grady. But you need to remind yourself that you are where you are for a reason. You’ve earned your place, and your unique perspective and abilities are what make you valuable.

What motivates you?

Being in Grady you can literally feel the energy of talent and drive from everyone involved. Surrounding myself with so many passionate, creative and ambitious people every day inspires me and drives me to match that energy. The competitive but supportive environment at Grady makes me want to keep growing and to contribute my best work with the rest.

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

The greatest impact on my time at UGA has been the incredible sense of community I found through Grady College and the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Serving on PRSSA’s executive board allowed me to surround myself with driven, like-minded peers who continually inspired and challenged me. Their support and encouragement helped me realize I’m capable of more than I ever imagined. Every student, professor and mentor I’ve met through Grady has played a meaningful role in shaping both my personal growth and my path toward a career in public relations.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

This past year, I stepped into a leadership role as social media director for PRSSA, which pushed me far outside of my comfort zone. It wasn’t just about the results—though those were great—but about the confidence I gained in the process. I proved to myself that I could handle high expectations, lead a team and create something impactful. That experience solidified my passions and gave me a glimpse of what I’m capable of.

Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?

North Campus for sure. I feel like that’s what everyone says. I’ll never get tired of my walk over there.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

I would tell my freshman self to stop trying to have it all figured out. This is definitely something I’m still trying to learn now too. College is about discovery—not just academic, but personal. You’ll change, your goals will shift and that’s okay. Lean into the unknown, ask for help when you need it and trust your gut more than anything.

Editor: Lily Alarcon, lia52467@uga.edu