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"Can Newhouse help prepare me for my dream PR career in public policy or political communication?"
In this exchange, a prospective Newhouse School of Public Communications student asked about career prep, and the alum’s response showed exactly why alumni are so important to enrollment. They make the value of a school real: sharing how classes, professors, and community connections turned into career opportunities. Prospective students want to know they’re joining more than a program, they’re joining a network of people who’ve been there and want to help them succeed. That’s what makes the alumni community so powerful and such a big part of why students choose a school.
Question
I am currently on the waitlist at Newhouse for admission for the Fall 2025 semester. I am eager to connect with alumni to learn more about how studying at Newhouse can help prepare someone for a career in public relations, particularly with a focus on public policy or political communications.
Could you share what kinds of experiential learning opportunities are available at Newhouse for a career path like this?
Thank you very much for your time and assistance
Response
This is a great question! I currently work in the political and digital advertising space, and both Newhouse and Syracuse prepared me well for my role. My major was in public relations, but one of the best parts of Newhouse was being exposed to every area the school teaches. My biggest advice is to soak up as much as you can. The faculty are some of the smartest minds in the industry, so ask questions, be curious, and take every class that sparks your interest.
At Syracuse more broadly, I would also recommend exploring classes in the Maxwell School. You’ll likely need humanities-type courses anyway, and Maxwell has one of the top programs in public affairs. Again, take in as much as possible, say yes to opportunities, and take advantage of everything available to you.
One more piece of advice: don’t forget about the city beyond campus. My first role in politics came from working on a local campaign. Getting to know community members, business owners, and local leaders can be incredibly valuable. They want to support students and be part of their journey, so connect with the city around you.
The political world moves quickly, but Syracuse truly helps you prepare for it. Enjoy this exciting time and make the most of your years there—it’s an incredible experience!
Impact
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