OCTOBER 11 – RECENT GRAD PANEL

Speaker Recap: Recent Alumni Panel

Scripps PRSSA welcomed five graduates from the class of 2021 to speak about their post-graduate experiences and what they have learned along the way. We were joined by Alec Charron, Madison Foulkes, Alexa Grillis, Megan Gordin and Vivian Moussa.

Current Positions

• Alec Charron: Account Associate, Falgren Mortine
• Madison Foulkes: Public Relations Assistant Account Executive, Marcus Thomas
• Alexa Grillis: J.D. Candidate, Maurer School of Law, Indiana University
• Megan Gordin: Graduate Assistant and MBA student, Franklin University
• Vivian Moussa: Strategic Brand Communications Coordinator, The Wendy’s Company

Key Takeaways

• From Bateman Competition participation to Scripps PRSSA mentorship programs, involvement helps you to grow professionally, gain portfolio pieces and prepare for the future.
• Post-graduate life is a major transition and growth period for which is hard to prepare — give yourself time to be present, and don’t be so hard on yourself.
• Practice your writing and grammar skills, especially in journalism classes. It will set you up for success for whatever you do because those skills are essential.

Lessons

• Network, network, network. You never know who knows who and how that can affect the opportunities that come your way. Network at PRSSA and network via LinkedIn — never be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone to make connections.
• Time management skills are essential. Something that students can practice now before they transition into a full-time job or enter into graduate school is to learn how to stay on top of deadlines and learn to prioritize tasks efficiently.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The people who you work with do not expect you to know it all, especially as a new graduate. Reach out to people if you don’t know or fully understand something — they will more than likely be happy to help you.