Ainsley enjoys the long-lasting relationships she's built with faculty and students.
Why did you decide to pursue your major?
I decided to pursue this major because I am a creative person who is interested in bringing messages to people in a unique, insightful, and thought-provoking way. I love expressing myself creatively, and this profession allows me to continue to be creative in a way that is effective and makes a difference to the general public. I want to be able to create messaging that keeps the public well-informed and confident in companies they trust, as well as further develop the skills already at my disposal to grow as a well-rounded professional.
What has been your favorite part of your experience at the Hubbard School?
One of my favorite parts of my Hubbard School experience has been the long-lasting connections I have made with faculty and fellow students. I admire the School’s ability to connect students with their professors in a positive manner. Nearly every experience I have had with every professor within the school has been a positive one full of helpful communication and ample assistance when needed. I think the school continues to do a great job of building and maintaining faculty-student relationships.
In addition to this, Hubbard has offered me so many opportunities to grow myself personally and professionally. Since being admitted into the School, I have joined PRSSA and Ad Club, applied to and been awarded scholarships through the School, and have made countless unforgettable connections with my peers and professors. I greatly appreciate and value everything that Hubbard has offered me during my time here, and I am looking forward to seeing how those experiences encourage and forge further skills in my future career.
Which course or professor would you recommend to other students in your major?
I would recommend Jill Bonham. Not only is she my incredibly involved and enthusiastic PRSSA advisor, but she has also taught me so much about my own value as a student and as a young professional. Jill is constantly looking for ways to build up her students, and has always been willing to lend a helping hand in any way she can. She constantly seeks out opportunities for her students, and individually has sought me out frequently to make me aware of a new opportunity or award that made her think of me. She is incredibly forceful in fighting for her students and their needs, and is one of the most passionate people in the industry I have ever met. Jill makes me want to do my very best, and even when I do not think I am capable of something, she knows that I can and encourages me.
What minors, internships, or activities are you pursuing outside of your major? How do you think these enhance your majors and/or your future career plans?
I currently hold an internship through a Google scholarship earned by Whitewater High School’s robotics team, Ferradermis. I continue to work with the students and the $10,000 scholarship they were awarded to build out their new donation page and create an advertising campaign for their cause. I am also currently the marketing associate for the University’s Theatre Arts & Dance Department, where I write press releases, bi-weekly newsletters, and general communications for the department. Lastly, I am earning my minor in Spanish.
I believe that all of these valuable experiences continue to enhance my professional growth. The writing, language, communication, PR and advertising skills I have developed throughout my career so far are actively paving the way for me to be a well-rounded, involved, and valued member of this industry.
What advice do you have for future Hubbard School students?
My advice for future students is to get as involved as possible. Get everything out of your school that it has to offer. Apply to scholarships, join clubs, and speak with your professors after class even if you don’t necessarily have an issue. Make yourself known as a powerful force and continue to advocate for yourself when in college so that you can hit the ground running with as many resources and skills as possible immediately following your graduation.
What is one aspect of your major that has surprised you?
One aspect of my major that has surprised me is how encouraging of an environment it is. Everyone who has achieved success in this industry strives to help those who are still searching for and figuring out their own versions of success, which is entirely prominent at the Hubbard School. Feeling uplifted and engaged with by my peers and professors in so many ways continues to be a pleasant surprise.
