Franklin Hall is not quite as lofty as the White House, but alumna Brenna Parker, '17, felt like she was visiting an old friend when she came back to speak to students Sept. 29.
hello, old friend! pic.twitter.com/n3Ky9KG5lB
— brenna parker (@BrennaParker1) September 29, 2022
The School of Media and Journalism hosted Parker, the digital director for Vice President Kamala Harris, for refreshments and a discussion about Parker's journey at Kent State and beyond.
Parker, who graduated from the public relations program in 2017, was honored during homecoming weekend as the Outstanding New Professional Award recipient by the Kent State Alumni Association.
“She did a fantastic job at helping students with the side of PR we don’t get to hear about in the classroom,” Katie Masko, junior public relations and advertising double major, said.
As the sole team member of Harris’ digital team, Parker knows what it’s like to work under pressure. She told students not to worry, however, as Kent State students are prepared for anything.
“There are people that need your talent,” Parker said during the discussion. “You are just as smart as the Ivy League students or the leaders I work with.”
The hour-long discussion allowed students to hear about Parker's journey and ask questions about the future. She spoke about networking, the importance of taking care of your physical and mental health, and how to negotiate salary as a young professional.
“It showed me that Kent State is preparing us for our futures in public relations,” senior public relations major Alexandra Austin said. “Hearing her experience has changed my outlook for life after graduation.“
To learn more about the School of Media and Journalism, visit www.kent.edu/mdj