Exploring the Possibilities: How Industry Immersion Turned Confusion into Clarity

By Michaela Stokes

Far too many undergraduate students come into college completely unsure of what the field of communications truly has to offer. From aspiring public relations professionals to future news anchors, many students have little understanding of what a day in the life of these professionals looks like. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities and pressure of a big university. That is why the College of Communication and Information Sciences at The University of Alabama offers experiences like Industry Immersion. 

Industry Immersion gives students the opportunity to travel to major cities across the United States to engage with industry professionals. Through this program, students have the opportunity to learn directly from individuals doing their dream jobs. Industry Immersion not only builds relationships between students and professionals, but it also allows alumni to give back to their college community. 

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As a public relations major, I jumped at the opportunity to meet with public relations professionals and potential employers in a city where I could see myself living in the future. When I traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, I had one goal in mind — to determine if I was truly interested in the music and entertainment industry.  

While in Nashville, I experienced the city firsthand and imagined what it would be like to work there by visiting agencies and organizations with in-house PR teams. Here are some of my favorite pieces of advice I took away from the experience: 

1. Your First Job Doesn’t Define You 

“Your entry-level job does not have to be your dream job.” 

- McKayla Kinnaird, Internship Program Manager at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum 

2. Trust Your Own Timeline  

“Put up blinders and do not focus on what everyone else is doing; we are all on different paths, so do not compare yourself.” 

- Namon Pope, Account Executive at MP&F Strategic Communications  

3. Success is Built in Community 

“Lean on your support systems and take advantage of connecting with your professors and peers while in college.” 

- Maggie Trabucco Horn, Senior Publicity Manager at FlyteVu Agency 

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Overall, this experience helped me understand my goals and future profession while equipping me with guidance to pursue the next steps. I learned that I am genuinely interested in the music and entertainment industry, and I now feel more prepared to pursue that path. I would strongly recommend students of any major in the College of Communication and Information Sciences consider this opportunity.