Elizabeth Schoenfelder

Elizabeth sought a major that could do it all.
Graduation year
2024
Hometown
Sioux Falls, SD
Major
Strategic Communication

Why did you decide to pursue your major?
Initially, I was drawn to Strategic Communication because of its flexibility — communications is the new business degree. The major allowed me to explore marketing, graphic design, project management, professional writing, and more. I entered the major with the desire to pursue political campaign work, but even our intro classes opened my eyes to all the possibilities and open doors Strategic Communication offers.


What has been your favorite part of your experience at the Hubbard School?
My favorite part of being a part of the Hubbard School is how devoted the faculty is to seeing you succeed. Nearly all the professors have worked in the industry, so they are eager to connect you and offer any resources for job hunting or further education. I can walk into any of my professors' office hours and be greeted with open arms. They know me personally, and they want to help in any way they can.


Which course or professor would you recommend for other students in your major? 
I think, if you are a Strategic Communications Major, you should definitely keep your eyes peeled for courses with Diane Cormany or Mark Jenson. One class I will recommend if you're looking to build your portfolio and gain some hard skills for your resume would be Media Design.


What minors, internships, or activities are you pursuing outside of your major? How do you think these enhance your major and/or your future career plans?
I'm on the executive board of Ad Club and the Media Team Lead for our National Student Advertising Competition team. Both of these have given me a glimpse into the agency side of advertising which I totally fell in love with and plan on pursuing after graduation.


What advice do you have for future Hubbard School students?
My advice for future Hubbard students is to try all corners of the major and what the school offers. I wouldn't have found my passion and realized all the opportunities I had available to me if I didn't push myself to try new things.


What do you wish you had known about your career path before now?
Advertising is all about who you know; any job can be taught but connections can get you in the door. That's another reason why I'm so grateful for my professors introducing us to those in the industry.
 

Elizabeth Schoenfelder