Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school? 

Hi! I’m Carol and I was born and raised in Suzhou, China. Before graduate school, I studied mathematics and economics at New York University, where I also explored media through minors in entertainment, media and technology, and business studies. During my time at NYU, I studied abroad in Abu Dhabi and London, served as head of operations for a student-led media nonprofit, and completed internships across consulting and analytics. These experiences sparked my interest in communication strategy, ultimately leading me to pursue graduate studies at USC Annenberg. 

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg? 

I first learned about this program through the USC website and peers who spoke highly of the curriculum. Annenberg stood out to me for its strong industry reputation, interdisciplinary coursework, and supportive community. I’m interested in the program’s courses and real-world applications, and after visiting campus, the energy of the USC community and opportunities in Los Angeles made it a clear choice. 

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program? 

I’ve especially enjoyed the program’s balance of academic rigor and hands-on professional experience. Courses in marketing analytics, organizational communication, and entertainment strategy have directly connected to my work as a social analytics and insights intern at Wasserman, where I’ve supported projects for brands like Samsung and IBM. I also love being part of the Annenberg community, and working with the admissions and social media teams has helped me build meaningful connections. The combination of practical learning, mentorship, and career opportunities has made my experience at USC both impactful and inspiring. Fight on!