Graduate Student Laura Jennings Discusses her Internship at Bally Design Monday, August 18, 2014
Meet Laura Jennings
Internship: Marketing/social media intern, Bally Design
Degree earned: B.A. in journalism with a minor in history, Penn State University
Currently pursuing: M.A. in communication technology
Expected graduation: Spring 2015
Hometown: Hopwood, Pa.
Now living in: Jeannette, Pa.
Why did you choose to attend Point Park for graduate school?
I had not considered graduate school until Point Park introduced its M.A. in communication technology program. After numerous years in journalism and newspapers, I wanted to expand my skill set with the range of class options including social media, integrated marketing communications and video production.
How is the M.A. program helping you to reach your career goals?
The program is offering me classroom and real-world experience based on my interests in social media and communication with relevant outside-the-classroom projects and internship opportunities.
What are your key responsibilities at this internship?
I am working on marketing and social media for Bally Design by establishing and maintaining social media channels and developing a content calendar that includes a company blog and upcoming e-newsletter. I am also writing case studies and summaries of the firm's product design and development projects with national companies including OXO, MSA and Lincoln Electric.
What has been one of you favorite experiences as a graduate student at Point Park?
In my graduate assistantship with the Point Park News Service, I have enjoyed working with the student writers, photographers and multimedia storytellers and seeing their class work published on the website. They have fresh perspectives and enthusiasm for combining journalism, storytelling, multimedia and social media.
Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?
The graduate program has allowed me to focus on my interests in social media from both academic and practical standpoints.
Anything else you would like to add?
I have enjoyed working with my Point Park professors, notably Tatyana Dumova, Ph.D. for three classes (Communication Theory, Applied Mass Communication Research, Technology Mediated Communication) in my first two semesters. Professor Dumova is an enthusiastic teacher who has challenged me in my critical thinking skills and practical applications of theory, and encouraged me in my class work and projects in the graduate program.