Who am I Professionally?
I am a Public Relations practitioner who has a strong passion for networking, communication, and journalism. I enjoy connecting with people and ideas, and I see myself as someone who thrives in environments where I can build relationships and share stories. As a cheerleader at the University of Oklahoma, I stay very connected with the community all year long, whether that’s through campus events, athletic support, or outreach opportunities. This role has not only given me the chance to represent my university but has also taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to engage with diverse groups of people. Beyond academics and cheer, I see myself as a motivated and outgoing individual who values collaboration, leadership, and growth.
Unique PR Qualifications
When people ask me what qualifies me as a PR professional, I always think about how my experiences have blended classroom learning with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities on some of the biggest stages in college sports.
As a Public Relations major at the University of Oklahoma, I’ve built a strong foundation through courses in PR writing and ethics. These classes taught me how to craft clear, persuasive messages while also reminding me that integrity is at the heart of good communication. Writing practice, case studies, and ethical scenarios all prepared me to think critically about how messages shape public perception.
But what really sets my journey apart is the hands-on experience I’ve gained outside of the classroom. As a cheerleader for OU, I’ve had the chance to be part of high-profile marketing and media moments. From helping promote the men’s and women’s basketball teams during March Madness to being featured in College GameDay coverage for OU football, I’ve been in spaces where communication and branding happen in real time. I’ve even been part of OU/Texas pregame interviews, where I experienced firsthand how media engagement works on a large stage.
These opportunities showed me how to represent a brand, adapt to fast-paced environments, and connect with audiences across different platforms. Pairing that with my coursework, I’ve developed a balance of professional writing skills, ethical decision-making, and practical marketing experience. My journey so far has shaped me into someone who is confident in front of the camera, thoughtful behind the scenes, and ready to bring creativity and strategy to the world of public relations.
Enjoyment PR Brings
I enjoy public relations because it gives me the chance to connect with people, share stories, and make an impact. I like that PR is fast-paced and always changing, whether it’s promoting something exciting like a sports event or helping a brand handle a challenge. I also enjoy the creative side of writing and communication, and I love how PR allows me to combine those skills with building relationships and representing organizations in a positive way.
Why PR?
I first became interested in public relations because of my sports background. As I’ve been a cheerleader, I’ve seen how much communication, branding, and connection matter in sports, and I thought it would be exciting to go into sports PR. I loved the idea of helping promote teams, events, and the energy that brings people together.
As I learned more about PR, though, I found myself drawn to another side of the field, crisis communication. I think it’s really interesting how organizations respond when something goes wrong and how the way they handle it can shape the public’s trust. A big example for me was when Southwest Airlines had to deal with a plane crash. The way they responded quickly, communicated with care, and took responsibility made me realize just how important good PR is during tough times.
Now, I see PR as more than just sports and events. It’s also about helping organizations share their story, even in difficult situations. That balance of excitement and responsibility is what makes me so interested in becoming a PR professional.
The Motivation PR Brings
What motivates me in PR is the ability to make a real difference in how people see and connect with an organization. I’m inspired by the idea that the right message at the right time can build trust, calm fears, or bring people together. I also love that PR keeps me learning and adapting. Whether it’s creating exciting campaigns for sports or handling serious moments like crisis communication, there’s always a challenge that pushes me to grow.
It’s motivating to even get the chance to represent something bigger than myself. Being part of a team or organization and helping share its story makes me feel proud, and I enjoy knowing that my work can leave a lasting impact.
Getting Involved on Campus and in the Community
One of the best parts of my college experience has been staying involved both on campus and in the community. Being a cheerleader at the University of Oklahoma has opened so many doors for me. Not only do I get to represent my school at games and events, but I also get the chance to serve others. Through cheer, I’ve been able to volunteer at local food banks, deliver meals through Meals on Wheels, and spend time with veterans and residents at VFW nursing homes. These experiences have been so meaningful because they remind me that being part of OU is about more than just athletics, it’s also about giving back.
I’m also taking steps to get more involved in my field by joining PRSSA. I’m excited to learn from professionals, build connections with other students who share my interests, and gain experiences that will help me grow as a PR professional. For me, being part of these organizations is not only about the opportunities they bring, but also about the relationships, lessons, and sense of community they create.
