By Morgan Moyer
Penn State offers an incredible communications program for students interested in studying a variety of related majors. While the classes and coursework offered are engaging and rigorous, being a communications student at Penn State means much more than just succeeding in class. The opportunities that students seek outside of class have the potential to influence them in a way that isn’t possible by simply attending class. Penn State communications students have a high level of motivation and dedication.
Collaboration
Even though lots of in-class collaboration takes place at Penn State, I have found moments of teamwork to be more productive in a voluntary space. With many students being involved outside of the classroom, there are plenty of opportunities for peers to engage in different settings. During my time with Happy Valley Comm, I have routinely experienced impactful collaboration. Last semester, my team worked for the client Manny’s. All throughout the semester we worked as a team to maintain the brand image and goals of Manny’s Performance Space. Each of us brought our own unique ideas to the work we created. Being on this team gave me the space to share my creativity, while also appreciating and learning from my peers. When like minded individuals get together, the work is intentional. Something else I’ve noticed with this type of work is how valuable it is to interact with a wide range of majors. This allows for an appreciation of different perspectives and the creation of new ideas. Understanding the importance of collaborating in a space where individuals have contrasting backgrounds, but a shared motive, is an element of this industry that all Penn State students have the opportunity to experience.
Connections
Building industry relationships is one of, if not the most important, parts of being a student in communications. Penn State has an incredible number of organizations that offer communications students a place to learn and grow professionally, as well as personally. Whether that’s a club, an internship, or an application-based organization], these groups foster connectivity. Gaining connections in college creates relationships that are uplifting, inspiring, and potentially long-lasting. With the proper intentions, connections can lead to the spread of knowledge and enhancement of prior skills. Between professors, mentors, alumni, and other students, it’s important to prioritize connections that are educational and influential. I have met many of my closest friends through communications related involvements. A girl that I met in one of my classes last year helped me get an internship recently by recommending me to her boss. More importantly, she is now a very good friend of mine. These connections help to make students feel comfortable, and who knows, they could be the key to landing your next position.
Community
In college and after, being surrounded by an encouraging community is valuable to create a sense of belonging. This also allows us to learn from others. The collaboration and connections we experience at Penn State feed into the formation of community. Especially in the college of communications, the community is well-connected and passionate.
The sense of community I’ve felt at Penn State is different from what I would have expected. While I’m involved in many organizations, all of them seem to be connected. Many of those connections lead back to Happy Valley Comm. Through this organization, I have found a community with like minded individuals who motivate me to work harder. Whether I’m starting a new class, club, or going to an event, Happy Valley Comm has allowed me to always find a familiar face. I feel lucky to be a part of a community where individuals are driven, as well as supportive. It’s inspiring to see how hardworking my peers are, and the other ways they are involved through the communications community. I have never felt like I’m competing against other students; it feels like we are all cheering each other on. These kinds of relationships seem rare, but I’m glad to have been welcomed into the community of communications.
The Penn State College of Communications is deeper than just a school. Having a supportive environment fosters success. It’s important for every student to take advantage of the resources available and lean into the possibilities available with collaborating, connecting, and finding that community.
Happy Valley Comm 