Indiana State University Newsroom

Indiana State University students studying public relations visited a branding firm in Indianapolis to gain practical professional knowledge outside of the classroom.

Jennifer Mullen, instructor of communication, and a select group of public relations students toured Pivot Marketing on Dec. 9. Mullen planned the career-oriented trip to compliment lessons in Principles of Public Relations, a communication course she instructs.

During the visit, students learned about the industry from professionals who specialize in strategic communication and branding.

"I am so grateful for the opportunity to expose our students to the practitioner side of public relations," Mullen said. "Teaching extends beyond the walls of the classroom, and this added experiential learning component allows students to see if this is the type of work they could see themselves doing post-graduation. Plus, the networking opportunities are huge."

Lauren LaDow, a junior majoring in recreation and sport management, was one of the lucky few students who participated.

"Learning outside of the classroom is my favorite way to obtain skills and information," LaDow said. "I believe that real-world experiences are the best way to truly grasp what our futures may pertain to and have a realistic view on what our options are."

The travel was made possible as part of the Focus Indiana initiative at Indiana State, funded by a $3 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., which facilitates the university to build job readiness skills into its curriculum and expand its Career Center.

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Photo: https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Media-Services/Submitted-Photos/Staff-Uploads/i-GCfvB6m/0/O/pivot.jpg -- Public relations students at Indiana State visited Pivot Marketing in Indianapolis on Dec. 9.

Writer and contact: Rachel Eckerle, reckerle1@sycamores.indstate.edu