Harriet recommends taking the NSAC course.
What did you decide to pursue your major?
When I was a freshman, I didn’t know what I wanted to major in. Much less do for a career. But I knew I liked to write, and it would be an amazing opportunity to pursue that. I took Jour 1001: Media in a Changing World as a freshman and applied to the Hubbard School as a mass communication major knowing I’d be able to get both a journalism and a strat comm background. But when I became more immersed in the world of advertising, I knew that’s what I wanted to do as a career. So I switched my major to strategic communication and couldn’t be happier that I did.
What has been your favorite part of your experience at the Hubbard School?
My favorite part of the Hubbard School are the connections I’ve made with both instructors and peers. I’ve become close friends with classmates, and am excited to work with them professionally in the near future. I’ve also formed great connections with instructors, getting amazing advice and learning what I need to know about the advertising industry before graduating.
Which course or professor would you recommend to other students in your major?
I would 100 percent recommend applying to be a part of the National Student Advertising Competition, which counts as the campaigns course requirement. I was on the creative and presentation teams and it was the best experience I’ve had in the Hubbard School. I learned so much about creating a campaign, and even though I was on the creative team, I also learned a lot about strategy and media.
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?
My Spanish Studies and Political Science minors help me see different perspectives on many topics, opening my mind and teaching me so much about the world. I’ve also completed a copywriting internship at SixSpeed – a creative marketing agency in St. Louis Park – and I absolutely loved interning there. I learned so much about the advertising industry while developing my writing and concepting skills.
What advice do you have for future Hubbard School students?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to instructors or guest speakers you have in class or in clubs. I’ve met up with a few people who have spoken in classes or in Ad Club, and they’re always happy to share their experiences and advice. Everyone in the advertising industry wants to help you succeed, and if you show that you’re interested and ambitious, they’ll be all the more willing.
What is one aspect of your major that has surprised you?
One aspect of Strategic Communication that surprised me was how tight knit the community is. I’m on the advertising track, and each class is small enough to get to know your classmates and your instructor which is key to making strong connections. Instructors are always ready to give good feedback and have a one-on-one conversation, and everyone in Hubbard makes you feel like you matter and are able to succeed in this field.
