What impact did your graduate experience have on your professional trajectory?
My experience at Annenberg definitely set the foundation for my professional trajectory. The personal relationships I built with faculty and my peers accelerated the key networking fundamentals vital to succeed in a field like public relations. I’ve carried this network into my industry in a manner that has allowed me to work with leading industry professionals.
What from your USC Annenberg education best equips you to face the challenges of your field today?
My professors were all practicing professionals who shared real-life experiences that took me beyond what would be offered in a traditional classroom setting. These practical scenarios offered at Annenberg gave me the confidence to handle crisis situations as a young professional as I enlisted the expertise offered to me through this world-class program. Even beyond graduation, these professors have become lifelong mentors that I can call on for their valued insight.
What advice would you give for someone considering graduate studies at USC?
Unprecedented times that we are facing in today’s climate should solidify the need to join a program like those offered through Annenberg’s graduate studies. While so many fall victim to taking shortcuts in life, it is a program like this that will create the resources, skills, and momentum to achieve exactly what you want out of life.
What is the one thing that a USC Annenberg student ought to take advantage of while enrolled?
Annenberg students are by no means lacking in valuable resources outside of lectures. I found it crucial to make the most of my experience by taking advantage of as many extracurricular activities as possible. For me, that included being a writer for the distinguished Daily Trojan and serving as a member on the Public Relations Student Society of America. Beyond extracurriculars, Annenberg fosters an immense library of exclusive and practical business programs that will equip you with the tools you’ll need for future opportunities. But most importantly, take advantage of the fact that you are a Trojan with a Trojan family behind you. These relationships will never fade and are still valuable to me in life today.
Gonzalez’s notable projects:
- Holiday brand partnership between Christine Quinn from Selling Sunset and LePrix to promote sustainable shopping.
- Brand collaboration between mega influencer Chriselle Lim (Your Rich Mom on TikTok) and Orcé Cosmetics.
- Secured Skin Inc. a spot in Elle Magazine’s Holiday Gift Guide, curated by renowned Editor-In-Chief Nina Garcia.
- Brand partnership between TV host and Dancing With The Stars contestant Jeannie Mai LePrix to promote sustainable shopping.