Tag: Public Relations

#ProfilesofTenacity: Sarah Dorr

Posted on by Elise Kim

Fourth year public relations major Sarah Dorr can trace her love for public relations back to her time in pageants, which allowed her to create her first advocacy campaign. Now, she is the vice president of UGA’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter and she has gained experience through various internships and fellowships in the public relations industry.

What does “tenacity” mean to you?

To me, it’s having the strength to continue on. Sometimes that means pushing yourself to go for that dream internship or ace that presentation, other times it’s just putting one foot in front of the other and deciding to show up each day, even if it’s the last thing you want to do. In creative fields like communication, criticism and rejection is inevitable. Tenacity is all about being able to accept it, embrace it and use it as fuel for growth.

Who is your favorite Grady professor and why?

I’ve been lucky to have so many fantastic professors here at Grady, but I have to shout out Professors Joseph Watson and Kim Landrum specifically. They are both such great people, as well as amazing mentors that have pushed me to become the young professional and leader I am today. I’ve learned so much from Professor Watson via the PAC certificate about thinking and writing strategically, and I always look forward to discussing all things politics, culture and movies with him. Professor Landrum is not only the Mama Bear of PRSSA exec and the whole chapter, but she’s so good at challenging her students to be their best and push beyond what they believe they’re capable of.

Dorr and other Grady students smile for a photo with Hoda Kotb at the TODAY plaza in Rockefeller Center. (Photo/submitted)
What is your most memorable Grady experience?

Hands down participating in Grady’s AdPR: NYC Field Study Program. Living and interning in New York City was a huge step outside my comfort zone, but it was also the best decision I’ve made these past four years. I checked so much off my bucket list, from seeing ten Broadway shows to appearing on the “Today” show, and I did it with the most amazing group of fellow Grady students. I’m sure they would all back me up when I say there’s no other place in the world with the same energy as the Big Apple, whether it’s the food, the people, the architecture, the art or the entertainment. I’m so thankful I got to call it home for eight weeks.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I competed in a couple of pageants back in high school! I’m very much not your stereotypical pageant girl, but it was a great way to combine my love of performing with my passion for advocacy (while also winning some scholarship money). I really believe my interest in public relations can be traced back to my time in pageants. I remember one competition in particular required all contestants to create a platform centered around a social issue. That whole experience taught me how to brand myself and shape an advocacy campaign before I even knew what PR was.

What motivates you?

My desire to learn and try new things has been a substantial motivating force for me. My goal during my time at Grady has been to soak up as much as possible. Whether it’s gaining skills in social media, internal communications, public affairs, web development, podcast production or even TED Talk curation, I’ve come a long way in my journey to become a true Renaissance woman in the communications field. Of course, I still have a long way to go, but I’m excited to continue my curious mindset as I begin my career.

Dorr at a Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) New York networking event with Grady alumna Brooklyn MacKenzie and students Anna Womack and Frankie Barnes. (Photo/submitted)
What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

Get over your fear of networking! I know that for some it’s not fun. I lean more toward the introverted side (shoutout to my fellow INFJs) and have often struggled with putting myself out there. However, it is so essential in the world of PR and communications. The great news is that UGA (especially Grady) has such a wide network of alumni that is more than happy and willing to talk, give advice and sometimes even get you that position. I was struggling to find an internship last spring, decided to cold-email a UGA alum working in fashion PR in NYC, and two days later, I had secured my internship. Dawg Nation is here to help!

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

Through my various internship experiences, I’ve grown to love the fast-paced PR agency life, so I’m leaning that way in the age-old agency vs. in-house debate. I’m hoping to move northeast, either to NYC or DC, and work at an agency that is trend and culture-forward but also focuses on mission-based clients and campaigns.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

I’m really proud of the work I’ve done this year as vice president of UGA’s PRSSA chapter. Not only do I get to work with an amazing group of women as a member of the executive board, but I also had the unique opportunity of overseeing the selection process for PRSSA’s committee network. It was definitely a daunting task interviewing over 50 candidates in one week, but it was so worth it now that I get to see our committee members learning and growing at each meeting. PRSSA has been the driving force in developing my leadership abilities while at UGA, so I think it is important to pay it forward and do everything I can to help build the next group of leaders for the chapter.

Dorr serves as a Tieger Fellow with Olga Diaz (left) and Jenna Monnin (right). (Photo/submitted)
What are you passionate about?

My passion for film and television has grown significantly during college, especially since the pandemic forced us all in front of our TVs for six months. From the newest Oscar-bait movie, to last Monday’s episode of “The Bachelor,” I love getting to break down what I’ve been watching, as well as analyze the media’s potential impact on pop culture and the communications field. (Shameless plug to follow me on Letterboxd @sarahdorr).

Where is your favorite study spot?

I always find myself studying or working on projects on the fourth floor of Grady. It’s such a collaborative space, and I never cease to run into friends or professors to catch up with!

PRSSA’s annual D.C. Agency Tour returns

Posted on by Sarah Freeman
The following is a first-person reflection written by PRSSA Vice President and Public Affairs Communications Tieger Fellow, Sarah Dorr.

Last month, eight Grady College students traveled from Athens to the Nation’s Capital for the return of PRSSA’s annual D.C. Agency Tour. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, PRSSA members were given the unique opportunity to visit some of Washington, D.C.’s premier public relations agencies, including APCO Worldwide, PLUS Communications, Penta, Weber Shandwick and a U.S. Senate press office.

I was lucky enough to be among the eight students on the tour. As someone who previously participated in a Grady Study Away Trip in New York City, I knew I was in store for an equally enriching and enjoyable week, especially with Professor Joseph Watson, Jr. leading the trip.

“It was a pleasure to renew this trip and introduce a great group of public relations students to what our nation’s capital has to offer,” said Watson. “Hopefully, some of these students will return to D.C. one day and have productive and fulfilling careers there.”

We kicked off our tour with visits to APCO Worldwide and PLUS Communications. Both agencies gave a thorough overview of their services and hosted roundtable discussions, giving us a chance to ask our own questions on topics like daily routines, work-life balance and internship opportunities.

“The APCO and PLUS Communications teams were so welcoming,” said PRSSA internal communications director and program participant Ansley McLendon. “I really appreciated getting to ask specific questions and expanding my network.”

D.C. Agency Tour participants and Joseph Watson, Jr. (far left) meet with Amanda Maddox (ABJ ‘10, fifth from left), managing director at PLUS Communications.

Our trip happened to line up with the Grady D.C. Alumni Mixer, so we concluded the night hearing from Grady grads who have successfully made the transition from the Classic City to the Federal City. The group’s main takeaway: D.C. is smaller than it seems. We were often told that everyone in the city is connected by, at most, two degrees of separation, so take advantage of the professional connections you make, especially within Bulldog Nation.

Day two of the trip began with the highly anticipated tour of the Capitol led by Hannah Payne (AB ’21), a Grady alumna and current digital director for the Office of U.S. Senator Rick Scott. We hit some iconic spots within the building, including the Capitol Rotunda, National Statuary Hall and the not-so-secret underground tunnels. The tour was topped off with a brief visit to the Senate Gallery, where our own Senator Warnock happened to be presiding when we passed through.

“Getting the opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Capitol was such a unique experience and definitely a highlight of the trip,” said participant Lauren Kim. “It was almost surreal to walk through such famous buildings and casually brush shoulders with members of Congress.”

We finished off our trip with visits to Penta (formerly Hamilton Place Strategies) and Weber Shandwick, rounding out the diverse lineup of agencies that are leading the pack in the world of public affairs communications.

“Penta and Weber Shandwick provided such valuable insight as someone hoping to pursue a career in public affairs,” said participant and upcoming Grady D.C. Field Study student Gracie Englund. “Hearing from industry leaders created a full picture of what living and working in D.C. is like, and I could not be more excited to experience it this summer!”

As someone who is looking at working in D.C. post-graduation, I couldn’t be more grateful for this trip. It just goes to show that even over 500 miles from campus, PRSSA and Grady are there to provide helpful insights, connections and life experiences (I’m looking at you D.C. Metro!) needed to succeed in our respective career journeys.

#ProfilesofTenacity: Coby Seriña

Posted on by Elise Kim

Third year public relations major Coby Seriña understands the importance of hard work and surrounding himself with good people. Throughout his time at UGA, Seriña has been able to build community on campus by getting involved in various clubs and organizations.

What does “tenacity” mean to you?

Had to google to make sure, and I’m glad my definition aligned with the internet’s. To me those with tenacity have a grit to them that you don’t see everywhere. I think it’s important to understand that you have to grind things out, and that things are going to suck, but Jarad Anthony Higgins said, “Hard work pays off.” I always say, “Flowers are planted in dirt.” Everyone wants flowers, but nobody wants dirt. Truth is: you can’t have one without the other.

Seriña poses for a photo with some of his friends in the Filipino Student Association at the Homecoming Parade. Seriña and some of the other students are wearing face paint and other traditional Filipino wear. (Photo/submitted)
What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

My dad, Raymond Seriña, first and foremost. Secondly, my friends. My dad definitely helped me build a strong sense of integrity and helped me understand how a young man should operate in the crazy world that is college. Growing up, I never really understood why he would do or say certain things, but now it just makes sense. I mentioned my friends because I always say I am what I surround myself with. This world is too big to be doing anything alone. If I didn’t have my community backing me, I couldn’t imagine progressing forward. I owe everything to them, and I’m truly so blessed to have people that care for me the way they do.

What is your most memorable Grady experience?
Seriña smiles in Washington Square Park in NYC, where he participated in a Maymester study away program last summer. (Photo/submitted)

My Maymester in New York was definitely my most memorable Grady experience. The people I met and the things I saw were all so crazy to me. I’m from Albany, Georgia. Before the trip, I would always feel some type of way driving through Atlanta, looking at her skyline. But New York’s? It’s been said before, but that city truly is magical, and I’m so grateful Grady gave me the opportunity to experience it.

What are you passionate about?

I care about being the best human I can be. I just want to do things worth remembering while staying true to myself and my values.

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

Do everything you can. Look around and listen when your classmates talk about the clubs they’re in. Network. Talk to older Grady students. Ask them for help. They’ll be glad to. Make friends everywhere you go. Never stop talking to people, and most importantly: BE KIND. Kindness goes a long way.

Seriña and Maria Taylor (ABJ ’09) smile for a picture on the field at SoFi Stadium after the national championship game. Seriña said that Taylor is an inspiration to him. (Photo/submitted)
Who is your professional hero?

I don’t know about them being a “hero,” but there are definitely a couple of people I look up to because of where they are and how they operate. Firstly, Josh Schultz at PhD and Sanay Lemus at Edelman are some pretty cool people; both Grady grads too. I had the opportunity to meet them during my New York Maymester and they were very kind and honest to me. Two other names, I’d like to mention are Kristine “KB” Brown and Kate Maldjian at Klick Health. I also met them during the Maymester, and they create some really cool stuff as a copywriter-creative duo. All of them have helped me to some extent and serve as great examples of people in the industry.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

Two things. One, I do not want to pursue sports journalism or broadcasting post-grad. Two, I do not work for the football team. I always post football stuff, and people always assume I work with Georgia Football, so I get it’s confusing. I intern for Bulldawg Illustrated, a media outlet and magazine local to Athens. They give me a lot of close up access, so it can look like I work with the team.

Seriña poses with other Ignite staff members at the Catholic Center, where he serves as a small group leader. (Photo/submitted)
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

My dad always says, “Go with the flow.” I don’t care to focus on five years from now. Focusing on right now is hard enough. I’m hoping and praying that I’m somewhere cool doing something cool.

What motivates you?

My dreams motivate me. I keep them to myself though. I’ve formed some vision of what I want my future to look like, and sometimes I think about that. I just want to do cool things with cool people in cool places.

#ProfilesofTenacity: Dolores Trobradovic

Posted on by Elise Kim

Dolores Trobradovic is a fourth year public relations and international affairs student who understands the importance of getting involved on campus. Trobradovic serves as the president for the UGA Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), an organization that has had a large impact on her college experience.

What does “tenacity” mean to you?

To be tenacious is, above all else, to be persistent. Over my four years at Grady, I have learned that the key to success in academics and career is to just keep going. Natural talents can only take you so far, but in order to truly achieve your goals, you have to be willing to put in the work consistently. Tenacity means having a strong will and not giving up even when your dreams seem unattainable. It means pushing through difficult times and knowing that hard work will lead you to where you are supposed to be.

Who is your favorite Grady professor and why?

As all public relations students do, I took Public Relations Communications my junior year with Tom Cullen. Professor Cullen’s class is by far the most difficult and rewarding Grady class I will ever take. PR communications taught me truly what PR is in terms of practical skills. Beyond that though, Professor Cullen pushed me to do my best work in that class. I grew a lot in that class not just as a PR student but also as a human being. And all of that was thanks to Tom Cullen.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?
Trobradovic leads PRSSA members through team bonding exercises at this year’s kickoff meeting. (Photo/submitted)

The UGA chapter of PRSSA has had a huge impact on my time as a student at UGA. Throughout my time serving on the executive board, what I have learned about commitment and leadership through that has been so important to me as a person. PRSSA has given me invaluable industry insight, networking skills and above all a sense of community at Grady and UGA. I have made amazing friends through PRSSA and the best memories that I will take with me after my time at UGA.

What motivates you?

When I was a little girl, I loved watching my mother dress in her high heels and professional outfits. I had this admiration for her as a working woman and internalized that to create a sort of vision of myself in her position. I am motivated by that image of myself in the future all dressed up, successful and happy with the contribution I am making to the world.

What is your most memorable Grady experience?
Trobradovic poses with a friend at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. (Photo/submitted)

My most memorable Grady experience is undoubtedly my study abroad experience in France this summer. I was lucky enough to participate in the Cannes Lions study abroad where I went to the Cannes Creativity Festival. I was able to hear speakers of diverse backgrounds from the creative industry and the world, such as Malala Yousufzai, Ted Sarandos and so many more. This summer helped create a real excitement for my career and what I can do after my time at Grady that I will always be grateful for.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of advice I have ever received is to know your worth. It can be easy to think that as young college students with no industry experience, you should take every and any opportunity that comes your way. While you should take opportunities to get experience and grow, it is important to understand to know what opportunities will truly be beneficial for you as a person. Knowing your worth is integral to forging a successful path in your career and in your personal life. If you believe in yourself, then so too will others.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?
Trobradovic smiles for a photo with her fellow PRSSA executive board members at their kickoff meeting. (Photo/submitted)

Get as involved in clubs as you can. The earlier you get involved in organizations, the better. Grady offers so many amazing opportunities to learn and experience new things within the communications world and it is so important to take advantage of it. Don’t be afraid to run for positions of leadership and commit yourself to clubs, because they will not only teach you invaluable career skills, but they will also bring you some of your fondest memories of this time in your life.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I lived in Frankfurt, Germany for four years. From the age of 11 to 15, I experienced new cultures and traveled across Europe. Living abroad at such a young age definitely gave me a unique way of thinking and perceiving the world. It wasn’t always easy living in a foreign country, but the difficulties gave me a confidence in myself that has shaped the young woman I am today.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?
Trobradovic leads a PRSSA meeting in studio 100 with guest speaker and alumna Amanda Maddox. (Photo/submitted)

This past year I have had the honor of serving as the president for PRSSA. My proudest moments are when our members tell me how much they have learned from our speakers or enjoy coming to our meetings. PRSSA has given me so much, and as president I want to ensure that everyone else has that very same experience. Knowing that I am able, even if it is in the tiniest manner, to help someone else in their journey at Grady is so rewarding.

Where is your favorite study spot?

This may not be a very popular destination for getting serious work done, but I often find that I am most productive at the Tate Student Center. While some prefer the silence of the MLC or Grady’s fourth floor, I thrive in the hustle and bustle of Tate. The energy and spirit of UGA brings me a lot of joy and I feel undeniably comfortable in the midst of all my fellow peers going about their days throughout the building.

PR leaders raise grade to B- in the Plank Center’s Report Card 2021

Posted on by Jackson Schroeder

Did the pandemic and social turmoil drive improved performance?  Graphic illustrating the 2021 PR leadership report card grades.

Leaders in public relations improved their performance during the volatile and challenging world of 2020-2022. For the first time since the Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations launched its biennial Leadership Report Card in 2015, the grade for overall leadership performance rose to B-.

“It is promising to document the improved leadership during and after times of uncertainty and radical changes,” said Juan Meng, Ph.D., co-investigator, board member at the Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations and associate professor at Grady College. “It is even better to observe the closed gap between men and women when evaluating their leaders. As the society is moving rapidly to embrace DE&I, leaders should rethink what kinds of effective practices their organizations need to ensure sustainable improvements in leadership.”

The 2020-2022 survey period was a volatile time marked by: 1) the pandemic; 2) George Floyd’s murder by police in 2020, which sparked protests and marches calling for greater social justice and DE&I; and 3) a bitter presidential election pounded by waves of mis- and dis-information in social and national media that further divided the nation.

Against this background, public relations leaders were resilient and improved their leadership. Did the pandemic, or a greater focus on DE&I, or concerns about truth and accuracy drive these improvements? To some extent certainly, but the survey was not designed to measure this. The 2023 Report Card should reveal whether the leadership gains in 2021 were lasting or not.

The Grades

 

Leadership Performance:   A-/C+          (2019—A-/C+)

This is a split grade because leaders’ and their employees’ perceptions of performance continue to differ sharply. Top leaders (232 or 43.3%) rated their performance (6.17 /7.0 scale) about an “A-,” while other employees (304 or 56.7%) rated their top leaders’ performance (4.75/7.0) a “C+.” Scores for top leadership performance were slightly higher than in 2019 (6.09 vs. 4.49), but the size of the gap in all four Report Cards is virtually the same. For the first time, no significant differences were found between women and men on their evaluations of leadership performance.

Job Engagement:    B                       (2019—B-)

Job engagement, based on Gallup’s engagement survey, reached its highest level versus previous studies. In addition, for the first time, no significant differences were found regarding engagement between women and men. Based on responses to the questions, respondents are grouped into three categories: engaged, not engaged, and actively disengaged.

In this Report Card, 61.2% of respondents were engaged (highest level in the four studies); 31.9% were not engaged; and 6.9% were actively disengaged (down from 8.0% in 2019).

Organizational Culture:    B-        (2019—C+)

Culture refers to the internal environment, processes and structures facilitating or impeding communication practices. Cultural improvements appeared across all items in this Report Card; surveyed participants graded it a “B-,” the highest (mean) score in four reports.

Rated highest again was the CEO’s or top leader’s understanding and valuing of public relations (5.69 up from 5.48 in 2019). The understanding and valuing of PR by other functional leaders, however, was rated significantly lower (5.02 versus 4.95 in 2019). Men rated culture more positively (5.23 vs. 5.07 in 2019) than women (5.04 vs. 4.83 in 2019), notably on elements like two-way communication, shared decision-making, and diversity. Among organizational types, agency professionals rated cultural factors highest (5.76).

Trust in the Organization:    B-       (2019—C+)

The overall grade for trust in the organization (5.08/7.0 scale) was a “B-,” the highest level of trust in the Report Cards to date. Trust scores once again were consistently lower at each level in the chain of command. Top leaders rated trust (5.46) significantly higher than other levels (4.71).

Women (4.96) continued to be less trusting of their organizations than male professionals (5.19), though the gap in the 2021 survey was not as pronounced as in previous surveys. The improvement in trust, after small declines in scores in the three previous studies, is noteworthy.

Job Satisfaction:    B-           (2019—C+)

Job satisfaction improved versus small declines in the two previous surveys, and the overall grade rose from a “C+” to a “B-.” In terms of percentages, the numbers rose slightly from 2019 when the percentage of PR leaders and professionals who were satisfied with their job was 62.1% versus 63.6% in this 2021 Report Card. Job satisfaction is highest among top leaders (72.8 %). Men (66.8%) were more satisfied with their job, if compared to women (60.5%).

Summary

Grades for all five areas for leaders improved, especially in job engagement and job satisfaction. Mean scores in most areas rose modestly. Thus, the overall leadership grade rose from a C+ to a B-, the first improvement since 2015. In addition, one of three crucial gaps revealed in previous studies—the gender gap—was closed in this Report Card.

The two other big gaps remain between: 1) perceptions of top communication leaders versus their employees, and 2) existing culture and a much richer culture for communication. The gaps must be reduced to strengthen leadership, practice and outcomes. The gaps may be reduced through 1) increased power sharing, or leader-empowering behaviors, 2) better two-way communication, and 3) richer interpersonal skills in conflict management, active listening and empathy, among others.

“The purpose of this biennial report is to assess PR leadership and identify enrichment opportunities for it,” said Bruce K. Berger, Ph.D., co-investigator and professor emeritus, University of Alabama. “If we identify the gaps and work to close them, we strengthen our profession’s leadership—a crucial strategic asset. This Report Card identified some improvements over the past two difficult pandemic years, but some crucial gaps and issues remain, as does the urgency to act.”   

Project Background and Demographics

The Report Card 2021 was based on responses from 536 PR leaders and professionals in the United States. A 42-question survey was distributed online to more than 22,000 public relations leaders and professionals contained within an extensive database, and 568 completed the survey; 32 surveys completed by non-US-based participants were excluded, leaving 536 surveys for data analysis. This response provides a 95% confidence level (+/- 5%) the results represent the larger population of surveyed professionals. Most participants were experienced, high-level leaders and managers. More than three-quarters (83.2%) of the 536 respondents were the #1 (43.3%) or #2 (39.9%) communication professional in their organization. More men (286 or 53.6%) than women (248 or 46.4%) completed the survey. The majority of participants worked in public (157 or 29.3%) or private/state-owned (102 or 19.0%) firms. Most participants (455 or 84.9%) were Caucasian. The percentage of non-Caucasians (e.g., Black/African American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian or Asian American, multi-racial, etc.) is 15.1%, higher than in previous surveys.

To download and read the Report Card 2021 full report, please visit the Plank Center’s website

Grady InternViews: Simi Shetty

Posted on by Ashley Balsavias

This is part of a series where we ask Grady College students to describe their summer internship experience.

Briefly describe your internship and your responsibilities:

W. P. Carey is a publicly funded real estate investment trust located in NYC. I am the corporate communications intern, so I work for the integrated communications department. I usually spend my days writing pitches, planning monthly content calendars, generating blog and media ideas, and anything else my team may need related to marketing, advertising or public relations.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far?

Connecting with your coworkers is so important. You learn so much from being in the office, interacting with all your colleagues, and creating a company culture. It makes the work more enjoyable once you get to know your team better in all aspects. I’ve found that genuine connections with coworkers will get you so far and will definitely make you stand out. Taking the time to get to know them makes the experience better and leaves you with so much insight!

What about this position has surprised you?

I was surprised by the management structure. Executive officers, managers, employees and interns interact constantly so it’s very “horizontal” and there’s no stark hierarchy where executives only interact with each other, or you have to go through three people before you can talk to someone higher-up. I didn’t think that would matter much to me, but I love coming into work and seeing the employees so comfortable with each other and their bosses.

Simi is interning in person in New York City. (Photo:submitted)
What has been your favorite part about your internship so far?

I really appreciate the company culture at W. P. Carey. It’s so nice to see managers, officers and employees all constantly interacting. I felt so welcomed – even on the first day –  by every single person. I can see the genuine connections people have made with each other over their careers at the company, and it’s so wonderful to see. It made me realize that when I start looking for jobs after graduation, company culture and the workplace environment will definitely be important factors!

What advice would you give to students who are looking to pursue similar opportunities?

I would say never count yourself out or shy away from an opportunity that seem impossible to get. UGA and Grady equip us a lot for this industry, so we are way more prepared than we might think. Don’t doubt yourself, and don’t be afraid to apply to something outside your comfort zone if it’s really something you want to try out or pursue.

As the corporate communications intern, Simi works with the integrated communications department at W.P. Carey. (Photo:submitted)
What’s the most challenging part of this position?

I had no idea what a real estate investment trust was until I applied for this internship. I was very unfamiliar with this industry, so it took me some time to really get to know exactly what the company does and the business jargon is especially hard to get the hang of. As the communications intern, it’s important for me to know how to communicate the branding and key messages of the company. I make sure to ask a lot of questions and read articles to familiarize myself with the industry.

Grady InternViews: Austin Clark

Posted on by Ashley Balsavias

Austin is participating in the Grady D.C. program led by Professor Joseph Watson.

Briefly describe your internship and responsibilities.

I support the entire communications team through compiling daily press clips, drafting press releases and creating press lists. Additional office wide responsibilities include logging voicemails and comments left for the Senator, and giving tours of the Capitol.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far?

I have been able to see how a Senate office is able to create and maintain relationships with journalists in Georgia. There is not an emphasis on national publications, but the communications team will target specific releases to markets to which the news is relevant. Seeing that deliberative process, as opposed to a mass email, has been interesting to learn.

Austin (far left) behind Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock addressing a crowd. (Photo:submitted)
How will this role guide your future career path?

I would love to make it back to D.C. soon. I am staying at Delta Hall, UGA’s dorm in D.C., and I have loved every second of it. The connections I have made so far in Senator Ossoff’s office, at networking events, and even in the elevator in the office building, will help me land a job up here when I graduate.

What advice would you give to other students looking to pursue a career in politics?
Austin is interning in Washington D.C. as part of the Grady D.C. program. (Photo:submitted)

Start looking for internships and opportunities now. The Virtual Student Federal Service is a great place to find remote, low commitment internships with the State Department and other federal agencies. I have participated in that program for two years, and I have no doubt it helped me land this internship.

What has been your favorite part about your internship so far?

The work of drafting press releases and collecting daily press clips is nothing new to me; however, being in the Senate, in D.C., and being able to go to the Capitol building whenever I want is very, very cool. I have also been able to interact with the Senator and speak to him about policy and communication strategy.

Austin (pictured left, back) is a communications intern for the office of Senator Jon Ossoff (pictured right). (Photo:submitted)
How has the public affairs communications (PAC) certificate prepared you for this role?

The PAC certificate has given me the ability to make suggestions to this professional communications team that shows that I know what I’m talking about. Being able to ask, “Can I help pitch this story?” or “Would you like for me to find new outlets for this release?,” shows that I too am a professional communicator, and that my team can trust me with other assignments.

Grady InternViews: Caroline Parlantieri

Posted on by Ashley Balsavias

This is part of a series where we ask Grady College students to describe their summer internship experience.

Briefly describe your internship and your responsibilities.

As a public relations communications intern, my responsibilities include monitoring and reporting on team coverage in new and traditional local and national news outlets, as well as maintaining and updating all media archives for press. I assist with the development of departmental publications including but not limited to press releases, media advisories, game notes and media guides. I leverage existing media relationships and cultivate new contacts within the industry and local market media and pitch compelling and creative storylines to the media.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far?

The most valuable lesson I have learned with Nashville SC is the impact I have as an individual working for a specific team. The impact goes far beyond the organization and its fan base. Because I am employed by a team instead of an outside publication, my work reaches countless people through different media outlets as opposed to a specific publication. This emphasizes the importance of credibility across all areas in communications.

How have the classes you’ve taken at Grady prepared you for this internship?

Along with the UGA Sports Communications staff, Grady has prepared me tremendously for this internship. The hands-on experiences I’ve had in my public relations and sports media classes helped groom my writing skills, my awareness of newsworthiness and my ability to produce quality content under tight deadlines. I have learned far more from Grady that has prepared me for this experience, but those are among the most important.

The relationships I have created with my Grady professors and other staff members have guided me through this process immensely. Their experience, expertise, advice, guidance and encouragement have prepared me and allowed me to thrive.

What qualities or qualifications do you have that you believe made you stand out in the process of getting this internship?

The qualifications that made me standout were based on my experiences working in the UGA Sports Communications department. My delegated game day tasks and duties at Georgia are very similar to my assignments for Nashville SC. This provided me with the proper knowledge, familiarity and qualifications to operate media relations with another organization.

Caroline pictured at Geodis Park, the stadium in Nashville, TN home to the Nashville Soccer Club. (Photo:submitted)
What advice would you give to other current sports media students?

It is important to get involved in sports any way that you can if that is your desired industry. You might think you want to pursue a specific path, but you never know what else is out there until you give it a chance. For example, my knowledge of professional soccer prior to this summer was very little compared to that of other sports. However, I have already gained invaluable knowledge and increased my skillsets remarkably within a short period of time. Having knowledge of multiple areas is a great way to market yourself. There are countless opportunities to get involved in sports at UGA, within the Athens community and sports media program; therefore, you shouldn’t limit yourself.

#ProfilesOfTenacity: Bryson Henriott

Posted on by Sarah Freeman
Why did you choose Grady and your course of study?

I chose Grady because of the high caliber level of resources and professors. I enjoy the practical real-life education and experiences Grady provides to all their students. I have always found politics interesting, but especially the public affairs and communications side of politics, this is why I chose public relations paired with my political science degree.

What does the word “tenacity” mean to you?

Tenacity means the culmination of determination and perseverance. For me, tenacity is the ability to take whatever situation is given and not only overcome it but use it to its fullest potential. Coming in as first-generation college student and a rural student, I was faced with unique challenges; however, through tenacity, determination, and perseverance, I have been able to overcome barriers and give back to other students like myself.

What is your most memorable Grady experience?

My most memorable Grady experience was getting to work on a semester-long crisis management plan in Dr. Jin’s Crisis Communications course. We were able to present our plan that we did for a local Athens business to a panel of our peers, Grady professors, and UGA administration. It was an amazing experience getting real-world experience and having the opportunity to help a local business.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about people; it sounds cliché but is true. Coming into UGA from an area that was very homogeneous, I have enjoyed getting to meet so many people and listen to everyone’s unique story and path to UGA. I am also passionate about both rural education and first-generation college student success in higher education and how to lower the barriers for students who identify in those communities.

Henriott is the president-elect of UGA Student Government Association.
What has been your proudest moment in the past year?

Winning SGA President has been the proudest moment for me in the past year. Not because of the pomp or circumstance, but because it was tangible proof for me that anything can be possible with enough work and motivation. It also allows for the perfect intersection of service and using the skills I have learned in Grady to best support and help students.

What is an example of a time you used your studies and skills in a real-world experience?

I am constantly using the skills I have learned through Grady, public relations, and the PAC Program in real-world experiences. I have used the communications and writing skills learned during my time as an Orientation Leader, internships, leading advocacy campaigns, in the organizations that I am part of, and most recently through SGA.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received from an instructor, mentor or family member?

Oftentimes I like to see proof. If someone tells me something I want to see the data to support or if I set out to do something I want to see the tangible impact. Vice President Wilson always tells me, “get used to planting seeds for a tree under which you will never enjoy its shade.” This has since stuck with me and impacted the way I approach situations and leadership. It is not always about seeing the end result and it is certainly not about receiving the praise for it, but rather to look at life and service as constantly planting seeds that one day will benefit others.

Henriott served as an Orientation Leader in 2021.
What are you planning to do after graduation?

After graduation, I am planning to enter the field of government relations. One day, I would love to come back to UGA for government relations to work and give back to the place that has given me so much.

What is your favorite app or social media channel and why?

I enjoy Instagram, because although sometimes it paints an unrealistic picture of people’s lives, it allows for me to stay connected to so many friends that I otherwise would not be able to. I also enjoy how social media and particularly Instagram has the ability to raise awareness and support for a myriad of issues and promote engagement.

Where is your favorite place on campus and why?

It seems like the most obvious answer, but Tate is my favorite place on campus. It is the heart of UGA, and it allows me to see many people and stay connected with students. Whether that is grabbing a coffee from Starbucks, having meetings in the ELS, getting lunch with a friend in the Market, or seeing who all is tabling under the breezeway, it is always busy and exciting. 

 

#ProfilesOfTenacity: Nicole García Sánchez

Posted on by admin
What is your most memorable Grady experience?

Before I got into Grady, I was planning an event called Orgullo Hispano for HSA. I had a very specific vision of what I wanted for it and I knew I wanted the location to be in Grady. When I asked Parker Middleton to help me with the event and allow me to do it in Grady, she went above and beyond. The event was a success and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the college. Even before I was a Grady student, they were extremely supportive and helping me make one of my goals possible. 

What is an example of a time you used your studies and skills in a real-world experience? 

It has been interesting having an internship at the same time I have classes. I use most of the skills I have learned in class. This summer, my boss asked me to do a media list and I was like, “Perfect, I can do this. I literally learned how to do it a month ago.” 

What is your favorite app or social media channel and why? 

I’m between Instagram and TikTok. I think Instagram is what you make out of it, so I follow a lot of accounts that either fulfill me or bring me joy, and TikTok is hilarious and keeps me entertained. When I first started at my internship I was doing content for TikTok, so it holds a special place in my heart. 

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received from an instructor, mentor or family member? 

When I took Career Explorations with Dean Davis and Parker Middleton, I remember they encouraged us to get as much experience in the real world as we can while we are in college. So for a few months of my freshman year, I started looking for an internship, and I got one for that summer. As I am an international student, I have to get permission to have an internship, and Immigration Services told me I couldn’t do an internship because I was not a Grady student yet. I got mad and told them “students are supposed to get internships to be competitive” and they told me that didn’t apply for me. So instead of dwelling on that, I decided to get as involved on campus as I could, because that does count as real-world experience. Even though my situation might be different than other students, I am thankful for that advice because it pushed me to do the best I could with the circumstances I was in. 

What does the word “tenacity” mean to you?

I think tenacity is knowing what you want and having a plan on how to get there. 

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

My friends and the Hispanic Student Association. My friends became my home away from home, and I couldn’t have survived all these years without them. And the community in HSA has made my college experience the best it could be. 

Where is your favorite place on campus and why?

Lake Herrick. It is super relaxing and I like to go watch the sunset there. 

Who is your professional hero?

My dad – he worked really hard to get to where he is today. 

What has been your proudest moment in the past year?

Getting my internship. I really wanted to work for this company because I really believe in what they do; I even wrote it in the things I wanted for my new year, and it happened!