CommUnity 2026

CommUnity is an annual C&IS event hosted by the Student Executive Council (SEC) where representatives from student organizations, campus partners and C&IS resources can all showcase what they have to offer and invite students to participate.

This year, CommUnity will be hosted in the Rotunda of Reese Phifer on September 8th and 9th from 1-3 p.m.

CommUnity

Participating Organizations

AAF UA

Jumpstart Your Advertising Career with AAF UA, the University of Alabama’s chapter of the American Advertising Federation, connects students to the world of advertising through industry insights, recruiter access, and professional development. Our meetings feature meeting with alumni in prominent roles, hands-on workshops that align with your advertising curriculum, and exclusive perks to help you launch your career.

Come see us at CommUnity and discover where your major can take you!

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Association for Women in Sports Media

The Association for Women in Sports Media (AWSM) at the University of Alabama is dedicated to empowering and supporting students interested in careers across the sports industry. Through monthly meetings, guest speakers from professional and collegiate sports organizations, resume and LinkedIn workshops, networking opportunities, and hands on experiences, members gain valuable career development and industry insight. AWSM also hosts social events, professional development programs, and opportunities to connect with peers and professionals while building skills and preparing for careers in sports media, communications, marketing, broadcasting, and beyond.

Capstone Agency

Capstone Agency is the University of Alabama’s student-run, integrated marketing communications agency, providing strategic advertising, public relations, branding, digital marketing, creative, and research services to clients across a variety of industries. Through a collaborative, agency-style environment, students gain hands-on experience by developing data-driven campaigns, managing client relationships, and delivering innovative communication solutions while preparing for careers in the communications industry. 

Applications can be found as needed on the C&IS Engagement Portal. Follow our instagram, @capstoneagency to learn more about Application timelines. 

Capstone Association of Black Journalists

The Capstone Association of Black Journalists is open to all students in C&IS, but historically purposed for black minority students within the college. As a undergraduate chapter of the national organization, NABJ, we serve as a networking threshold into the communication industry and serve students in the fields of journalism, public relations, advertising, broadcasting, and many more areas. Our committees include our Newsletter committee, CABJ TV, social media, and community service branch. Please come to a meeting and join our family of C&IS students!

Career Center at C&IS

The Career Center @ C&IS and Tisch Student Services are dedicated to helping students identify and reach their career goals. Meet with our career services staff to participate in mock interviews and resume critiques, network with industry professionals and attend professional development events.

As Program Manager for the Career Center in the College of Communication & Information Sciences at The University of Alabama, Raven Young provides strategic leadership and career development services that prepare students and alumni for professional success. She manages career advising initiatives, develop and facilitate workshops and employer engagement programs, builds partnerships with faculty and industry professionals, and oversees programs that connect students with internships, experiential learning, and full-time employment opportunities. Through individualized coaching, innovative programming, and data-informed strategies, Raven supports students in achieving their career goals while advancing the college’s mission of career readiness.

For questions, contact Raven Young.

Communication and Media Preview (CAMP) Leaders

Communication and Media Preview (CAMP) offers high school students the opportunity to interact with UA faculty, staff, alumni and current students while learning about the communication and media industries.

Applications will open in the spring. For more information, contact lbmcmahon@ua.edu.

Communication Studies Club

The purpose of The Communication Studies Club is to promote interest in the communication studies discipline. In the pursuit of this general purpose, The Communication Studies Club will work to: A. Provide resources and advice for members interested and/or already pursuing a communication studies degree; B. Encouraging the Academic study of human communication (rhetorical, interpersonal, and organizational); C. Host social events that provide opportunities for members to network with each other and professionals; D. Help members gain experience through partnerships with other student organizations.

C&IS Ambassadors

The C&IS Ambassadors serve as the official student representatives of the College of Communication & Information Sciences, fostering interest in the fields of communication and media while enhancing the college’s connection with prospective and current students, alumni, and industry partners. Ambassadors provide personalized tours and engage with prospective students, parents, transfer students, alumni, and other visitors, offering firsthand insight into the C&IS experience. They also represent the college at premier events, including the C&IS Hall of Fame, Board of Visitors meetings, The Tailgate at Reese Phifer, recruitment initiatives, and other signature programs, helping showcase the college’s academic excellence, vibrant community, and commitment to student success.

Applications open this fall semester:

Open House: October 2, 2026, 2PM – 5PM

Applications open October 2, 2026 on the C&IS Student Engagement Portal.

C&IS First-Gen

At UA, a first-generation college student is defined as one whose neither parent graduated with a four-year college degree. Any student who identifies as first-gen is welcome to engage with the C&IS First-Gen community!

Students can be added to the C&IS First-Gen email list by emailing Randi Hamm at randi.hamm@ua.edu

C&IS Embedded Therapist – Counseling Center

The C&IS Embedded Therapist provides easy access to counseling services and support right in the heart of the C&IS building, Reese Phifer Hall. C&IS Embedded Therapist, Elizabeth is available to offer confidential counseling, brief consultations, and workshops designed to support the mental well-being of the C&IS community.

If you’d like to “drop-in” for a quick confidential chat without signing up for therapy, walk-in or book your spot Mondays 10am-12pm or Tuesdays 1pm-3pm every week! Call 205-348-3863 to schedule.

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C&IS in France

Join the college’s longest-standing study abroad program and experience the intersection of culture, creativity, and global innovation. Over 16 days, students explore the vibrant streets of Paris and connect with the world’s leading creative professionals in Cannes. In 2027, students will also discover the storybook beauty of Bruges, Belgium. From iconic landmarks and cultural experiences to international networking, students gain firsthand exposure to European life and the global communication industry.

The program’s highlight is attendance at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, where students learn in sessions featuring top brands, agencies, organizations, and innovators shaping the future of advertising, communication, marketing, PR, and creative strategy. If you’re passionate about creativity, communication, business, or culture, this program offers unforgettable learning experiences.

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C&IS in South Korea: Advertising and Public Relations

UA in South Korea 21 Days. One Country. A Whole New You. Live, learn, and belong in South Korea — three weeks that change how you see the world, and yourself.

Applications due October 10, 2026: studyabroad.ua.edu

C&IS in Italy

Come learn about the study abroad opportunities to study Communication in Italy this summer, we will visit Rome and Sorrento, see intnational communication agencies, experience food culture and communication, and learn about presentation skills. This course counts for 3 credit hours as either COM 123 or COM 395

Applications due November 1: studyabroad.ua.edu

The Digital Media Center

At The Digital Media Center (DMC), you can work alongside industry professionals through paid jobs, unpaid internships and course laboratories to develop the skills you need for your career.

Education Abroad

Studying, working, or interning abroad can be one of the highlights of your university career.  You will have wonderful and challenging experiences that will allow you to grow both academically and personally, not to mention prepare you to compete in today’s globalizing world

Applications for Studying Abroad Spring 2027 open August 18th, 2026

Girls Club Alabama

Girls Club Alabama is an organization that was created for to women who want to work in sports, but everyone is welcome. We hold networking opportunities and professional development opportunities that revolve around getting involved in the sports world!

The first meeting is open to everyone and $10 dues will start to be collected in October.

Industry Immersion

Industry Immersion strengthens relationships between students, alumni and industry professionals, by giving motivated students an opportunity to explore industry and leading job markets and engage with high-powered C&IS alumni and leaders.

All applications can be found on the C&IS Engagement Portal.

Kappa Tau Alpha

Kappa Tau Alpha is the national college honor society for journalism and mass communication. Qualified students are invited to join beginning in the spring of their junior year based on their academic performance. It is the premier honor society in these fields, offering scholarships and mentoring opportunities to its members.

Students who qualify for KTA as juniors or seniors will receive an email invitation in February. The induction ceremony is held every April.

Local Entertainment (LEPT)

The Local Entertainment Promotions Team (LEPT) works to promote local bands and DJs in the Tuscaloosa area. LEPT typically works with five bands a semester. Members of LEPT get to master a range of skills necessary for working in the music industry including booking, photography, videography, editing, graphic design and copywriting. During the fall and spring semesters LEPT works with local bands to put on a charitable concert. On top of this, the team helps bands manage their social media, solidify branding, take concert photography, create graphics, and more.

Platform Magazine

Platform Magazine is an online, student-run publication focused on the discussion and advancement of the public relations industry.

Visit the C&IS engagement portal and apply by Oct. 1 for priority deadline.

Public Relations Council of Alabama

Public Relations Council of Alabama is a student-led organization that invites students from all experience levels to learn about the public relations field. All are welcome.

Public Relations Council of Alabama – Community Cultivation

The Community Cultivation Project works to promote local and statewide nonprofits. The Community Cultivation Project typically works with five or more nonprofits a semester. Members of the Community Cultivation Project get to master a range of skills necessary for working in many industries, including campaign planning, graphic design, videography, and copywriting. During the fall and spring semesters, the Community Cultivation Project works with these nonprofits to help manage their social media, solidify their branding, create campaigns and graphics, and more.

Public Relations Student Society of America 

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is the foremost organization for students interested in public relations and communications. We serve our members by enhancing their knowledge of public relations, connecting them to a national network of PR students and professionals, and providing access to professional development opportunities. We host meetings once a month where we invite PR professionals from across the nation to share their experiences and knowledge. We also host Dinner & Learns where members can enjoy free dinner and attend hands-on workshops to develop critical PR skills.

For questions, contact: uaprssa@gmail.com.

Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA)

Radio Television Digital News Association is your connection to industry professionals in news, sports and weather for radio and television.

Application: C&IS Student Engagement Portal

Application Deadline: September 30, 2026

ROOTS

A C&IS Resources, Opportunities, and Outreach for Transitioning Students (ROOTS) Mentor is an established student leader within the College who serves as an upper-class mentor to transitioning students navigating college, C&IS, and professional development. C&IS ROOTS is designed for first-year, second-year, and transfer C&IS students to create relationships, to network, and build a professional community.

ROOTS mentors are assigned a group of students based on interests and help facilitate both professional and social transition to college and expand their knowledge of engagement opportunities. Groups meet periodically in-person as well as connect digitally. During the year, ROOTS will explore topics such as campus and college involvement, career preparation, and more.

Our mentee applications for this fall close on September 13th in the C&IS Engagement Portal.

The Speaking Studio

The Speaking Studio is a campus wide resource designed to help students improve their public speaking, presentation, and oral communication skills.

For questions, contact: acbillings1@ua.edu.

The Student Executive Council 

The Student Executive Council (SEC) is made up of various C&IS leaders and exists to promote collaboration across C&IS student organizations, current students, faculty, staff, and administration.

Applications are available in early spring on the C&IS Engagement Portal.

UA Bateman Team

The UA Bateman Team competes in a nation-wide Public Relations case study competition through Public Relations Student Society of America. During the competition, teams of up to six conduct research, execute campaigns, and present their results.

UA Student Media

The Crimson White is the official student newspaper of The University of Alabama. The CW publishes continuously online, with an email newsletter distributed on Monday and Thursday throughout the academic year. The CW has distributed news to the campus since 1894.

Druid is a new lifestyle and culture magazine focused on life in Tuscaloosa and beyond. This magazine examines the art, culture, and social connections of the city that is home to The University of Alabama and the members of its community, state and region.

Apply for the Crimson White here.

Apply for Druid magazine here.

University Libraries

Riley Hardin is the library liaison for the College of Communication and Information Sciences. As your librarian, she provides support for every stage of the research process, including topic development, developing search strategies, accessing resources, source evaluation, and more. You can reach her at rhardin8@ua.edu.

WordStrides

The world is your classroom with WorldStrides. Whether you’re earning credit in the classroom, conducting research in the field, or gaining real-world experience in a global context, our programs are built for academic impact, personal growth, and cultural connection—with the support and safety you need to thrive.

Website for programs: Here

App deadlines vary, but first deadline for large portion spring term programs abroad is October 1!

WVUA-FM

WVUA-FM, The University of Alabama’s student-operated radio station, has been in operation for 45 years and still going strong. The station gives UA students hands-on learning opportunities including on-air experience, sports and music reporting, podcasting, web development and audio production.