Shabrelle Pollock | Jan. 20, 2010
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| Photo by Nathan Brown |
| Ralph Winslow Visiting Professor Jim Bright prepared for a teleconference with alumni and his current J460 International Public Relations students last week. Alumni counseled the students on the spring break trip to Japan. |
It means the chance to network with media professionals in Japan and experience that country’s lifestyle and culture.
Alumni who graduated last year teleconferenced with the current class last week and recalled the trip as the highlights of their studies – and their apprehension about such an undertaking.
“This time last year I was in your seat and freaking out,” said Aimee Reif, now with User Experience Alliance in Chicago. Reif said the trip helped prepare her for her current position at a company that has locations in 22 countries. She urged students to soak up as much information as they can in the classroom – and in Japan.
While the spring break trip to Japan is the pinnacle, the course requires classroom preparation to fully take advantage of the spring break travel. Bright brings in guest speakers, such as these alumni, to bring the world to the students.
“Regardless of your focus, international knowledge and experience and cultural sensitivity make you more valuable,” said Alex Migyanko, Hillenbrand corporate communications specialist.
Anna Schilawski, a public relations assistant for Victoria Secret in New York, agreed.
“My favorite part of the trip was the dinner we had with journalism and public relations professionals,” she said. “It was a chance to speak with people who had experience in living and work in another culture.”
While the trip was a bit of culture shock, it was an experience the students will cherish and enjoy, the alumni said. Students took their advice to heart.
“Talking to the alums made me feel a lot more comfortable about the trip,” senior Alexi Turbow said. “Their advice made me realize that his experience will impress employers and will help me in so many ways.”
Bright’s former students said they are “more than a little jealous” of the current students – and their upcoming adventure – and they wished them all the best.
“Take advantage of everything you possibly can,” said Haley Bakker-Arkema, now with GolinHarris in Chicago. “Keep in touch with the people you meet there. This really is a life-changing experience.”
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