October 2014 Student Spotlight - Sarah Bergstrom

Sarah Bergstrom - Annenberg Student SpotlightFull Name: Sarah Bergstrom 

What is your hometown? Beaverton, OR 

What is your major? Public Relations 

What is your minor (if any)? Sports Media 

What is your expected graduation date? May 2015

Why did you choose to attend Annenberg?
I knew that Annenberg was one of the best journalism schools in the country. That, coupled with the incredible network that is the Trojan Family and the opportunities available in a city like Los Angeles, I knew it was the perfect school for me.

Tell us about a great experience or opportunity you've had here at Annenberg? 
There are so many to choose from. The vast array of guest speakers I’ve had in my classes, from Scott Boras to Louis Zamperini to Shelley Smith and more, has been incredible. But it’s not just the fact that they come to speak, they engage with us as students and actually want to help. I’ve made great connections with some of our guests and some of our notable alumni and it wouldn’t have happened without Annenberg.

What makes Annenberg special? 
I really believe that at Annenberg every student has a deep desire to learn and every professor has a deep desire to really teach. There is intentionality and purpose and passion with each member of the community and it makes a difference in the classroom and in the opportunities that lie outside.

What's one thing at USC that no student should miss? 
Every student, at least once, needs to stay for a complete football game and the celebration after a win. The “family” experience that’s felt when the entire team comes to the student section to sing the fight song with the band and the crowd is unbelievable considering it’s thousands of people coming together for one moment. It’s really special and really symbolic of the Trojan Family.

What has been your greatest challenge? 
The biggest challenge I’ve faced in college is realizing that I have no idea what exactly I want to do when I graduate. I have always been a planner so for me to let go of my plans in college and be open to whatever comes my way has been hard for me, but also incredibly healthy. I am so excited to see what lies ahead after graduation and I know that what God has in store is better than anything I could have planned.

What advice do you have for incoming students? 
My best advice for incoming students is to take every opportunity that is given to you. I have worked random jobs, signed up for clubs, had multiple internships and all because I just said “Yes.” Don’t spread yourself too thin but be willing to try something new and outside your comfort zone.