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

Born in Zhengzhou, China, I came to the United States for college in 2017. I attended Pepperdine University, where I majored in integrated marketing communication and minored in multimedia design. This combination allowed me to build a solid communication foundation and understand the importance of multimedia in storytelling. From my senior year in college to the time before I attended USC Annenberg, I worked as a marketing consultant for two years, collaborating with clients from diverse industries such as tech, fashion, and design firms. Through my experiences as a marketing consultant, the more cases I worked on, the more critical I found that public relations play in shaping and maintaining a positive brand image. I was amazed by how a simple message could impact a whole brand. This realization fueled my desire to delve deeper into public relations strategies, research, analytics, and industry trends. I was very excited to join the top-notch communication school in the U.S.

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

I learned about this program through research on reputable communication schools. USC Annenberg consistently stood out as the top public relations graduate program in the U.S. What immediately drew my interest was the remarkable professors who make up the faculty at USC Annenberg. Annenberg professors are both industry leaders and academic experts, bringing a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the classroom. Their dedication to providing insightful and up-to-date curriculum was a compelling reason for my choice. Moreover, Annenberg offers an array of fascinating courses that piqued my interest. The diverse course offerings allow students to explore various facets of communication, from strategic public relations to digital media and more. It made Annenberg the perfect place for me to hone my skills and gain a well-rounded education in the field. Last but not least, the location of USC Annenberg in the vibrant city of Los Angeles was another major draw. Being situated in the heart of a global media hub has provided unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and real-world experience. Los Angeles offers an exciting backdrop for those pursuing careers in communication and media. As we say, USC is the pLAce to be.

What have you enjoyed most about the degree program?

Without a doubt, the most cherished aspect of my time at USC Annenberg has been the extraordinary faculty members. At Annenberg, our professors aren’t just educators; they are mentors, role models, and support pillars. If someone were to ask me to name the top three professors that I’m most grateful to, I would have a list of ten. Each has left an indelible mark on my academic and personal journey. Every one of them is a leading expert in the PR industry. With their passion and dedication to teaching, each class is filled with energy, collaboration, cutting-edge knowledge, and practical skills development. My professors regularly bring in guest speakers from the PR industry, giving us exposure to the real-world and the latest industry trends. I learned so much from guest speakers and professors’ real-life experiences. Learning at USC Annenberg is like experiencing the industry in the real world. 

Also, the unwavering support from our professors truly sets Annenberg apart. They are always accessible, whether it’s for a quick meeting, a coffee chat, or even lunch. Their guidance extends beyond academic studies; they offer valuable advice for our career development and personal growth. 

During my graduate study, I developed a keen interest in PR in technology and finance. With the encouragement and support of my professors, I embarked on my thesis study, exploring the role of social media in shaping consumers’ preferences and opinions in the fintech industry. Their mentorship was not just about academics but also about fostering growth and resilience. Their wealth of professional experiences, their inspiring speeches, and the practical techniques they’ve shared from their work in the field have been nothing short of transformative to my life.