Reflections from C&IS Graduates

Dec 14, 2018

We are proud to have a College made up of so many risk-takers, researchers, creators, storytellers and artists. Around 200 C&IS students will graduate this December and start their careers across the country in fields such as strategic marketing, public relations, advertising, film and law school. Before they graduate, we wanted to hear some of the stories of our December graduates. Below are their insights, photos and reflections from their time at C&IS.

What is your favorite memory in C&IS?

“My favorite memory in C&IS was all the holiday festivities…from Easter egg hunts to drinking hot chocolate with professors. The C&IS SEC bowling trip was also so much fun and a great opportunity to meet people in the college.” – Samantha Stiles, Journalism & Creative Media

“Campaigns. It was so much fun working with my group, covering all fields of advertising and working together towards a common goal.” – Alex White, Advertising

What was your favorite class during your time in C&IS? Why?

“APR 433 was the best experience. I worked with a full team to build an entire campaign for the White Sox using our own ideas.” – Harley Sabbagh, Public Relations

“My favorite class in C&IS was Professor Cantrell’s JCM 354 – Into to Production Management. Although my major isn’t film related, I learned so much about how movies are made and what goes into the film making process. It is hard work making a film, but Professor Cantrell made the class fun and interesting. She always had a smile on her face.” – Samantha Stiles, Journalism & Creative Media

“APR 427. Mark Harris was the best professor I have ever had. I got to strengthen my writing and public speaking skills and learned things that I will use outside of the classroom.” – Elly McKinnon, Public Relations

What is the best advice you have for incoming C&IS freshmen?

Have fun in college and explore what this diverse campus has to offer. There is so much to do, and you’ll be delighted with all the activities and social events that go on at campus. Enjoy these years while they last because your college years will fly by!” – Ben Senicz, Communication Studies

“Go out to events and meet people. Some of your favorite memories will come from spending time with classmates that you wouldn’t have known otherwise. Also, the computer lab on the 3rd floor of Reese Phifer is a great place for some peace and quiet.” – Samantha Stiles, Journalism & Creative Media

“Seek outside help from professors anytime you need their guidance. Proper time management and a disciplined work ethic breed success.” – Alex White, Advertising

“Prepare for the unexpected, have great time management skills and intern!” – Harley Sabbagh, Public Relations

What tools or strategies helped you succeed during your time in college?

“I didn’t think of college classes as optional. It was mandatory in my head, so I knew I had to go to class every day and work as hard as I could to come out on top.” – Samantha Stiles, Journalism & Creative Media

“Plan out every class semester-by-semester for every year.” – Laney Howard, Public Relations

“Don’t be afraid to test the waters and take classes in different colleges. I found advertising as a result of exploring other colleges. I couldn’t be happier that I did!” – Alex White, Advertising

Thank you to our honors graduates of December 2018 and best of luck!