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Why did you choose to attend ���ҹ�����?

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I chose to attend ���ҹ����� (Pleasantville) because it was close to my home and offered a high-quality education on a walkable campus. I also had friends who attended and loved it here.

I transferred from a local community college, and when I first applied, I enrolled as a Management major in the Lubin School of Business, but felt that I wanted a more well-rounded experience. I was always an avid reader and a creative person, so I decided to come to Dyson. Once here, I discovered that I also enjoy writing and telling stories that bring out a range of human emotions. That is what drew me to pursue a degree in communications. I see my skill as a writer improving with each class I take, and I appreciate the context offered by each communications course, including a focus on history, ethics, and various types of writing and mediums.

What activities have you participated in as a student?

While I've been at ���ҹ�����, I've participated in meetings for the Programming Board, a student-run organization that creates on-campus events, helped form a singing choir called Abyss of Sound, and co-founded a fashion club on campus called POSE.

I also have a passion for the environment, and was selected this year for the United Nations Program, presented by the United Nations Academic Impact as well as the Millennium Campus Network. The aim of my project, entitled "Eco-nomize the ���ҹ����� Pleasantville Campus," is to promote green living on-campus, as well as in the school's curriculum, hopefully introducing a new class on sustainability in the upcoming semester.

Related to this is my advocacy for environmentally friendly and sustainable uses of fashion. “Fast fashion” is the second largest polluter in the world, after the oil industry, and I believe that contemporary fashion brands should align with a sustainable social impact or utilize "zero-waste fashion.” A model since I was 18, I am taking part in upcoming pageants in 2021, which include Miss US International and Miss Earth USA.

I enjoy telling stories that bring out a range of human emotions.

You were featured in a News12 Westchester segment on your volunteer efforts to send letters to nursing homes during the COVID-19 crisis. What inspired you to do so?

I felt that volunteering was a way to give back to those suffering from the effects of the virus, or the virus itself, without support in place. Many disparities have been highlighted since the outbreak of COVID-19, and that has made it harder for those across the world to access necessities such as food, medical care, and even close family and friends. I feel that it is a priority to remind everyone that help is there and that it is accessible, and to spread the positive message that we will get through this together.

Tell us about your career goals.

In 2018, I interned in Shanghai, China, at SMH International, an international marketing firm. There, I wrote public relations reports and attended meetings with foreign investors. I feel that my writing skills, along with my passion for various social causes, would allow me to successfully engage in marketing and public relations for various clients in fashion and luxury. That would be my dream job.

I would also like to write a book and become a motivational speaker one day.

What advice, if any, would you like to give to our current students?

Remember that college is an exciting time; spend it as if it were the best years of your life!

Why did you choose to attend ���ҹ�����?

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From the minute I toured ���ҹ�����, I knew it was the place for me. I had this gut feeling it was where I belonged and where I wanted to pursue my undergraduate studies. From the location, to the student success stories, to the opportunities for internships and work, I was amazed by all the university has to offer. There is a certain air on campus that screams happiness, community, and success, and I wanted to be a part of that. ���ҹ����� truly is a place like no other.

What is it about Communication Studies as a major, and Journalism and Digital Storytelling as a minor, that interests you?

The major allows me to hone my creative skills while also teaching me fundamental theories and the science behind why and how we communicate as humans. Journalism, specifically, has always interested me because it is the responsibility of the journalist to tell stories and bring voices to the voiceless. In a way, communications is essential to the functionality of society, and as communicators, it is our job to propel important conversations.

What has your experience in the Communication Studies department been like?

The Communication Studies department at ���ҹ����� is one of a kind! Each professor truly cares about their students, and wants us to gain valuable experience both in and out of the classroom. Specifically, Professor Min has been beyond instrumental in my ���ҹ����� Path. From teaching me the fundamentals of journalism and helping me write my first article in AP traditional journalistic style, to sharing endless amounts of advice and having the best and funniest class lectures in town, I could not be more grateful. In addition, Professor Zaslow has supported me, both academically and professionally, from day one!

Communications is essential to the functionality of society, and as communicators, it is our job to propel important conversations.

What activities or internships have you participated in as a student?

During my time at ���ҹ�����, I have had six internships, including interning at the The Wendy Williams Show for two semesters. During the second semester, I received a promotion to work directly as Wendy's executive intern on a daily basis, a program created for the first time by Wendy's chief of staff. It was the most rewarding experience I have had thus far at ���ҹ�����. In fall 2020, I interned virtually for the editorial and marketing company, the Why Women Project. I created and scheduled daily social media content and campaigns for promotion and launches across all company channels. I also served as head of community management, through which I welcomed and engaged members, moving down the marketing and sales funnel to convert to a final sale.

I have also worked and written for The ���ҹ����� Press, won an English Department Award for Excellence in Journalism, volunteered through the Center for Community Action and Research, and served as a tour guide in the Welcome Center on the New York City campus.

And you were also awarded a New York Women in Communication scholarship?

​​In May 2020, I was blessed to hear that I was a recipient of a 2020 scholarship (from the Interpublic Group). Finding [this] community of women who all celebrate and practice the same passion was beyond inspiring. In fact, during the interview process I met so many amazing women who I look up to as role models, and I desire to change the world for the better through work in the communications industry as they do.

​What advice do you have for other students?

Get involved, use your resources, be confident in your skills and passions, and set goals for yourself! I’ve learned that dedication and hard work always pay off, and no matter the size or scope of the job, it is important to put your best foot forward and work to the best of your ability.

What is it about your major that interests you?

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I chose to major in Digital Cinema and Filmmaking because the Media, Communications, and Visual Arts department and community provided a cohesive, supportive environment for me. I also find fulfillment in creating media and enjoy the type of career opportunities this major offers.

What have your experiences been like with the Department of Media, Communications, and Visual Arts? Have certain faculty members been instrumental in your academic journey?

The staff and faculty within the department are all genuine and encouraging. The lab manager, Chris Lengers, is so kind and capable. Professor Lou Guarneri offers unique, hands-on class experiences and is down to earth. Dr. Paul Ziek is extremely dedicated and passionate about improving the department. There are many other people in the department who are inspiring and supportive.

What internships have you done while a student at ���ҹ�����?

I had an internship at Pleasantville Community Television through which I assisted the Station Manager, by editing portions of shows to be broadcast on the local TV channel.

The Media, Communications, and Visual Arts department and community provided a cohesive, supportive environment for me.

What other activities have you been involved with as a student?

I thoroughly enjoy being president of ���ҹ����� Book Club. I hold and lead weekly discussion meetings, plan upcoming events, and get to participate in this wonderful, unique community. The board members are all leaders who help make the club as great as it is. I am also treasurer for WPAW, where I work with the president to create budgets for upcoming events. Further, I am a writer for the ���ҹ����� Chronicle, and as part of being a part of the Honors College, have mentored two first-year students.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

After graduation, I'd like to find a steady job, possibly involved in post-production in the broadcasting industry. My career goals are to make a good salary and love what I do.

What advice, if any, would you like to give to our current students?

For current students, I advise them to find a club or community that makes them feel like they belong. Life is made better with interpersonal connections. I owe everything I have to Book Club.