Feb. 2, 2023

‘I’m excited for my future’

NDSU’s strategic communication program is the pathway to an exciting future.

Earning your bachelor’s degree will prepare you to work in such diverse areas as graphic design, copy writing/editing, client services, event planning, promotion, publicity and media relations, creative design, professional business consulting or corporate training.

“My focus is in sports multimedia,” said Savannah Lussier, a junior from Warroad, Minnesota. “My education at NDSU has broadened my skills and has also opened many opportunities for me within the field, allowing me to flourish. The people at NDSU want you to be successful, and I believe that they will do anything until that happens. Being taught by so many great professors is helping me in the long run, and they make me excited for my future.”

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, including course projects, consulting work with local organizations, participation in national competitions and valuable internship experiences. There also are eight student organizations affiliated with the department so you’ll get involved and meet new friends.

“The communication department is incredible – we are like a little family. The people here are so special, and they want nothing other than for you to succeed,” Lussier said. “Strategic communication allows you many options to explore. The faculty can lead you in the right direction and help you find your passion. That's what NDSU did for me.”

The program helps students use their communication skills to develop advertising and public relations campaigns for a variety of digital and in-person audiences. Students majoring in strategic communication can earn a Bachelor of Science degree (with an approved minor) or a Bachelor of Arts degree (with a modern language proficiency).

“Through student organizations and classes, we help our students gain practical experience that translates very well to the job market. When employers interview our students, they are impressed that our students not only can ‘talk the talk,’ but they have already ‘walked the walk.’ They have real experience in their craft,” said Stephenson Beck, professor and department chair of communication. “When they enter the workforce, we want our students to be successful on day one.”

Lussier highly recommends NDSU to prospective students, describing the university as an “environment for the growth and total development” of all students.

“I'm the first person in my family to attend college,” said Lussier, who is president of the NDSU’s chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America. “I feel a lot of responsibility being a first-generation student, but that also comes with a lot of reward. Not only am I a first-generation college student, but also a minority, with Asian and Native American descent. I hope to serve as an inspiration to others and pave the way for those who relate.”

Begin your journey to a successful career. Apply to NDSU today.

Learn more about Lussier’s experience and the NDSU strategic communication program at the university’s official YouTube page.

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