Costa selected for Lockheed Martin's Communication Leadership Development Program

Ananda Costa, a recent graduate with a degree in public relations and a New Media certificate from Grady College, is one of the top students selected for Lockheed Martin’s two-year rotational Communication Leadership Development Program. Throughout her time in Grady College, Ananda gained valuable experience in her leadership roles including the co-director of AdPR Connection and director of outreach for TEDxUGA.

Lockheed Martin’s Communication Leadership Development Program is designed for selected individuals to gain experience and knowledge in corporate communications. Participants have the opportunity to be immersed in the world’s top advanced technology company. While completing this program, participants are encouraged to continue their education with provided tuition to obtain their master’s degree. Lockheed Martin hopes to mold future company leaders through this exclusive program.

Ananda Costa chosen for Lockheed Martin's Communications Leadership Development Program

“I am so honored to have been selected for Lockheed Martin’s Communications Leadership Development Program. Grady has a proud history of having several students participate in this prestigious initiative. In fact, I couldn’t have gone through the rigorous interview process without the encouragement of exceptional Grady professors, alumni and PRSSA. Having a strong support system of people who helped proof my application materials and provide me with program insights gave me an edge throughout the application process. I am so grateful to Grady and can’t wait to begin my Lockheed journey working with the Space team in Denver soon," said Ananda.

We look forward to supporting Ananda in her future success in Lockheed Martin’s Communication Leadership Development Program.

AdPR Connection Event "Becoming A VIP" Is A Success

Students learned what it means to become a V.I.P. at this year’s fifth annual ADPR Connection on Tuesday, Oct. 20 which was held in the University of Georgia’s Tate Grand Hall. This years event highlighted the importance of being versatile, inspired and prepared in today’s professional world. The event included six VIP inspired workshops, a coffee hour, senior luncheon and a career fair. 

Sponsors for this event include Nebo at the platinum level; BBDO, Coca Cola, Cookerly Public Relations, The Creative Circus, Dodge Communications, Moxie, MSL Group and Porter Novelli at the gold level; and Erwin Penland and Jackson Electric Membership Corporation at the silver level.  Additional photos for this event can be found here.

*The event was sponsored by UGA PRSSA and Ad Club. It is co-directed by Erin Geoffroy and Diana Soloaga.

AdPR Student Spotlight: Shelby Clayton

Shelby Clayton, senior advertising major 

Shelby Clayton is a senior advertising major pursuing a sociology minor. Shelby is from Orlando, Fla.

What encouraged you to apply to Grady College?  

At first, I was a pre-business student because I figured business was the route I wanted to pursue. However, many upperclassmen I met were Grady students. They told me about their amazing experiences within Grady College, and I decided to do some research. I found that Grady partnered with many great organizations that I was interested in. My major in particular, is business-oriented, but media focused. I liked that combination, so I applied to Grady just in time.

What activities are you involved in at Grady/UGA/Athens?

I loved attending the ADPR Connection with Grady, and I got a chance to help provide gifts for guest speakers. I was a former promotions intern for the UGA Athletic Association. I serve as an officer for the R.O.S.E. Society, where we host prospective football recruits on UGA game days (GO DAWGS)! Currently, I am the Vice President of Women in Sports and Events (WISE, UGA) where we provide various networking opportunities for college women who are interested in the sports industry. My favorite community involvement at UGA is Shop with a Bulldawg (SWAB). I have been a mentor and served on a committee for the past three years at UGA.

What kinds of internships or work have you been involved in, and what were your responsibilities?

The summer before I entered UGA, I got an amazing opportunity to intern with the United States Tennis Association, Southern division. I was primarily a tournament intern for what is now known as the BB&T Atlanta Open in Atlantic Station. At the time, the event took place at Racquet Club of the South in Norcross, Ga. I worked under the ticket sales manager handling VIP, media, and player credentials for the tournament. 

Additionally, I interned at the UGA Athletic Association as a promotions intern for a year. I started out as a volunteer working sporting events every week. The promotions team was responsible for handing out promotional items as well as in-game promotions like t-shirt tosses. Then, I worked specifically worked softball handling youth team tours and on-field appearances. I also managed student volunteers who helped out at softball games. 

This past summer, I worked at the Mayor’s Office of Special Events in Atlanta as its intern. Our office was responsible for assembling event permits for outdoor event organizers. We also planned and executed the mayor’s signature events throughout the year. 

My most interesting experience was having the opportunity to appear on CNN three times. Everyone asks me how that happened, and it honestly came from a Facebook post that led to an interview with the producer. I appeared on-air as a Generation Y Panelist discussing my views on race relations with other college students. Don Lemon was the anchor for two segments. Poppy Harlow and Jim Sciutto were the moderators for my last segment where we discussed the Israel/Hamas conflict. I am so grateful for that opportunity because it helped me grow as a young adult and college student.  

What were the best parts of these experiences?

My favorite part of these experiences has been the people I got a chance to meet along the way. I am still in contact from my supervisors from my first internship. I have fostered these relationships over the years, and it has been very rewarding in return. Many of my past co-workers and supervisors want me to succeed, and they are willing to help me. I have also enjoyed the skill sets and first-hand working experience that will make my resume very marketable.

What part of your Grady experience (classes, professors, etc.) has been helpful in your internship or work experiences?

My professors, definitely. I have gained valuable knowledge from some great professors. They have helped understand the industry as a whole. I am able to talk about my coursework and course concepts in my recent interviews. Employers were impressed when I could apply my knowledge from my class to my internship. I have to credit my peers as well because they have taught me how to work with a team, which is crucial for many jobs.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing an AdPR program?

Research, research, research. Do not choose a program because it sounds nice from others. Before I chose Grady, I researched the college to understand what I would be gaining from their programs. I wanted to know the opportunities with a degree from Grady, and that came from going online and reading the degree program description and visiting Grady College’s website. Since this is a competitive program, keep your GPA high and start gaining work experience early.

What are your career goals and interests?

This was actually the question I have been battling with for the past three years in college. I knew I wanted to get involved in sports, but I did not know where. After speaking on CNN about social issues, I realized I wanted to leverage that with my passion for sports. Luckily, I figured out that I want to work in corporate philanthropy for a sports entity. For example, NBA Cares is the NBA’s global community outreach initiative that addresses social issues. So, I get to help people and still be involved in sports. A win-win.

You can follow Shelby via her personal blog and Twitter.

AdPR Young Alumni Spotlight: Meghan Kanter

Public relations major Meghan Kanter

Meghan Kanter is a senior public relations major from Norfolk, Virginia who graduated in December 2013.

What encouraged you to apply to Grady College?
In high school, I was involved in my school's newspaper committee and knew that I had a strong interest in journalism and communications. However, when I began my college search, I visited UGA simply because it seemed like a fun school. I quickly learned during my campus tour that UGA had one of the top journalism schools in the country which solidified my interest in the university. At that point, I had no idea that attending UGA and applying for Grady College would become into two of my best decisions so far. 

What activities were you involved in at Grady/UGA/Athens?
At UGA, I have been involved with PRSSA since sophomore year. As the world's largest PRSSA chapter, there are so many opportunities to become involved. I participated in Creative Consultants during my sophomore and junior years. I also served on PRSSA's social media committee and on the social media committee for ADPR Connection. This year, I served as one of the two co-directors of ADPR Connection. In addition to my involvement in PRSSA, I have also been an active member of my sorority. I served as Registrar for Kappa Kappa Gamma for one year and as a recruitment counselor for Panhellenic recruitment for two years.

What kinds of internships or work were you been involved in, and what were your responsibilities?
For the past year, I have served as one of two public relations interns at BLAST900 Athens, a fitness studio franchise. I helped develop a public relations plan for this studio upon its opening in February, maintained its social media presence, launched several campaigns and pitched to media. This past summer, I interned with Porter Novelli in Washington, D.C. under the Digital and Consumer Marketing teams. This was my first glimpse into agency life, and it was an incredibly enriching experience. I learned something new every single day and gained confidence in my abilities. I am now certain that I want to work in a public relations agency.

What were the best parts of these experiences?
At Porter Novelli, I was provided with the perfect balance of responsibility and support from my supervisors, and I definitely did not feel like "just an intern." I was able to participate in brainstorm sessions and even write content for clients' social media pages. Having the opportunity to work on projects for many different clients taught me to how to prioritize and balance my time carefully.

What part of your Grady experience (classes, professors, etc.) has been helpful in your internship or work experiences?
Dr. Betty Jones has been an incredible mentor and resource for me, and I honestly have no idea what I would have done without her over the past year. As the faculty advisor for PRSSA, she encouraged me to go on the Washington, D.C. agency tour, which is how I got my internship with Porter Novelli. Dr. Jones also chose me to co-direct ADPR Connection which helped me build my professional network and improve as a leader and event planner. She is now helping me in my job search, and I cannot thank her enough for her support.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing an Ad/PR program?
You get out what you put in. Choose an organization or two related to your studies and get involved. By getting involved with organizations like PRSSA, AdClub, IABC and others, you begin meeting other students who will one day become your colleagues. It really is important to start building a network early and making these connections. The students I have met through PRSSA have become some of my best friends, and I know that our paths will cross again after college. Also, the more that you do for the organization, the more it will you do for you when it comes time to apply for jobs.

What are your career goals and interests?
I plan to begin my career at a public relations agency and work hard to produce great work for my clients. I am not sure exactly where life will take me and if I will stay in an agency, move into corporate or non-profit PR or something completely different, but I do know that I want to always be learning and improving. If I ever find myself in a position where I am not bettering myself professionally and personally, then I know I should probably look into other opportunities.

AdPR Connection 2013 Recap

AdPR Connection 2013, a networking event sponsored by BBDO and Porter Novelli, took place this year on Nov. 12 in Tate Grand Hall at the University of Georgia.

AdPR Department Head Tom Reichert speaking at AdPR Connection luncheon

The event, free for all participants, gives students the opportunity to network with 120 professionals from over 64 companies in advertising and public relations.

In its third year, AdPR Connection was co-chaired by advertising major Cara Felleman and public relations major Meghan Kanter.

"I knew that directing ADPR Connection would require a lot of time and work, but I had no idea how rewarding it would be. Seeing all of our hard work unfold was incredible, and Cara and I were both able to relax and enjoy the day ourselves.," said Kanter. 

"I am so grateful to be given this opportunity, as it was a great learning experience. Planning such a large scale-networking event took months of planning which consisted of weekly meetings with my co-chair and advisor as well as with my committees, hundreds of emails and constant communication with the students, faculty and professionals. I am extremely proud of the way the event turned out," added Felleman.

AdPR Connection began with a luncheon for professionals, AdClub and PRSSA seniors, faculty and staff. A panel of professionals from BBDO and Porter Novelli was assembled to discuss the importance of “integration” in today’s advertising and public relations fields.  

Following the luncheon, students attended workshops intended to expand knowledge and skills pertaining to the industry. The six professional development workshops included:

• “I Want to Be the Boss”- featuring high-level management professionals speaking about how they worked their way up to their positions.
• “Blurring the Lines”- a discussion on how the communications, public relations and advertising industries are merging together.
• “First Year on the Job”- advice from young professionals who graduated in the past two years on what the “real world “ is like.
• “Branding Yourself”- featuring professionals who explained how students can best present themselves to future employers.
• “Getting Your Foot in the Door”- advice from professionals who work with hiring and gave students advice on how to best prepare for interviews and job applications.
• “Making an Impact- An Interactive Guide to Presentation Skills”
  

  
  

After the workshops, students attended the Career Fair, where they were able to hone with networking skills and find out more information about the companies at AdPR Connection.

Representatives from Porter Novelli at the Career Fair 

To conclude the day, a mixer was held at Porterhouse Grill for students and professionals.

For more information on AdPR Connection, visit here.

Student Spotlight: Cara Felleman

Cara Felleman

Cara Felleman, a rising Senior majoring in Advertising and Psychology, is from Houston, Texas.

What encouraged you to apply to Grady College?  

My first semester sophomore year, I wanted to take an introductory class to public relations, however the class was already full so I decided to sign up for Introduction to Advertising instead. I truly enjoyed the class and quickly realized advertising would go hand in hand with my psychology degree, so I decided to apply to Grady!

What activities are you involved in at Grady/UGA/Athens?

I am currently the Vice President of Ad Club, Co-Chair for ADPR Connection, a member of Relay for Life and an active member of Sigma Delta Tau sorority.

What kinds of internships or work have you been involved in, and what were your responsibilities?

I started my summer internship in New York City in the beginning of June, 2013. I am interning at an advertising agency called G2, which at the moment is merging with Ogilvy Action to become the largest activation agency in the world. I am interning in the media department, where I will be participating in the media planning and buying for both broadcast and digital media. I love the job and can’t wait to see what the summer has in store for me.

What part of your Grady experience (classes, professors, etc.) has been helpful in your internship or work experiences?

My favorite Grady experience is without a doubt attending the Cannes Lion Festival for Creativity last summer. Grady provided me with the ability to attend the most prestigious advertising event, where only the crème de la crème of the industry are lucky enough to attend as simply a student. This program gave me the opportunity to learn from the top leaders of the industry, network with professionals and most importantly have a ton of fun while doing it!

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing an Ad/PR program?

I would say go for it! The AD/PR program at UGA is an amazing program; they prepare you for the real world while providing you with endless opportunities to get involved with the industry as a student. I am very proud to say I am apart of the Grady family.

What are your career goals and interests?

After I graduate in May, I hope to incorporate my psychology background with my passion for advertising. Ultimately, I would like to work in the strategy and insights department at a mid-sized advertising agency in either New York or Atlanta.

PR major Abbey Hufstetler earns second place in UGA Student Employee of the Year competition

Abbey Hufstetler

Abbey Hufstetler, a PR major at UGA, had much to celebrate at Spring convocation. In April, Hufstetler was awarded second place in the campus-wide competition for UGA’s Student Employee of the Year. Each year, the University of Georgia Career Center recognizes the top 100 student workers on campus at the National Student Employee of the Year awards luncheon.

Originally from  Cartersville, GA, Hufstetler had been actively involved in with Grady and UGA communities. As a member of PRSSA she participated in the various activities and events promoted by the association, attended ADPR connection for the past two years, and served on a Creative Consultants team. Within the UGA community, Hufstetler worked for the Arch Society, where she served as an official host and goodwill ambassador for the university. She also had the opportunity of serving as the president of her sorority, Sigma Alpha Omega, and this Summer she will chair the sorority's national convention.

After graduation, Hufstetler plans to work with event planning and communications, and alumni relations programs in universities.

"After taking a course last semester with Mr. Tom Landrum about fund development in higher education, I realized how vital alumni relations programs are to universities," Hufstetler said. "I would love to be a part of planning events and providing communication tools to keep alumni engaged and involved with their alma mater and other programs they have been involved in."

Regarding her award in the campus-wide competition for UGA’s Student Employee of the Year Hufstetler said: "I was so humbled to be selected as the first runner up for UGA's Student Employee of the Year when the awards were given at a luncheon on April 18. An avid 4-H'er from 5th-12th grade, it has been an incredible experience to be able to give back to 4-H through the State 4-H Office over the four years I've been at UGA. My supervisor has been a wonderful mentor to me throughout my time here, and I am honored to be able to represent a small part of all the work that she does and the wider impact of the whole 4-H program."