Profiles of Tenacity: Sofia Rios
Profiles of Tenacity: Sofia Rios
Sofia Rios is a Double Dawg advertising major and a general business minor from Atlanta, Georgia, set to graduate in May 2026. Rios is the co-director of the Talking Dog Agency, a member of the UGA American Marketing Association, and a mentor through the UGA AMA mentorship program. She also works as a student assistant in the Acquisitions Office at the UGA Main Library. Additionally, Rios is an active member of Alpha Gamma Delta and participates in an Athens Church small group, showcasing her commitment to professional development, community engagement and personal growth.
Read her Q/A below.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose to major in advertising because I knew I wanted to work in the business field; however, I am more creative-minded and communications-oriented. Advertising was a perfect mix of these! Adding the new media certificate and the general business minor to my academic curriculum will give me a technological and entrepreneurial edge, which perfectly aligns with my passions.
What does tenacity mean to you?
Tenacity means having a strong work ethic fueled by passion, drive and perseverance. If you are not passionate about the work you are creating, you will not produce quality work. Passion will carry you through any obstacles or challenges you may face, thus leading you to obtain tenacity.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?
I would encourage each of you to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new – interview to join a student organization, volunteer to speak during class, stay after class to introduce yourself to a guest speaker or stop by the PAF when industry professionals are visiting Grady. The more you challenge yourself and put yourself out there, the more you will attract new opportunities for yourself. You never know when one of these interactions could lead you to make a meaningful connection or land you an internship.
What motivates you?
Success and the desire to stay on track with our fast-paced and ever-changing industry are my main motivators. I am motivated to keep learning and keep improving my skills in professional tools so that I can confidently produce work that exceeds expectations. Success looks different for everyone, but to me, being successful means that you are at the forefront of current industry best practices, and that is ultimately my main motivator.
What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?
My involvement in Talking Dog has led me to the person who has had the biggest impact on my life as a student at UGA. Mary Ellen Barto is the professional managing director of the agency, and she is the best professional oversight I could ask for. Mary Ellen is incredibly knowledgeable, truly cares about her students, always helps us elevate the quality of our work, and is passionate about the industry. She has taught me so much, and I am beyond grateful!
What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?
My biggest accomplishment in the past year is becoming a Talking Dog Agency Co-Director. I had the privilege of leading my own client team last school year as an Account Manager. Taking what I learned from this experience into leading the entire agency this school year has been the most rewarding experience of my college years thus far. This organization is highly respected among employers and industry professionals, and I am honored to be trusted with such an important role.
Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?
My favorite place on campus is the benches by Herty Fountain. I love going there in between classes just to have a moment to sit outside in nature and reset. With my busy schedule, sometimes I do not get to spend a lot of time outside, so this is the perfect spot to take a break.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
I would encourage myself to look into all of Grady’s programs and coursework sooner. I was an intended business major for an entire academic school year because I did not think to explore the ADPR department. It was not until halfway through Dean Davis’ Career Explorations course in my second semester of freshman year that I realized that Grady was the perfect place for me. I am grateful that I made this switch going into my second year of college because Grady has given me more than I could have ever imagined!
Editor: Shannon Lorusso, sel67411@uga.edu