As a senior in the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, I’ve been reflecting on how much I’ve changed since my freshman year – and not just in terms of what I know, but in how I approach opportunities. From classes to internships, each experience has required me to adapt, rethink my priorities, and embrace a learning mindset. As I prepare for life after graduation, I see adaptability as one of the most essential skills for success, especially in today’s fast-changing industries.
During my time at UNC, I’ve seen firsthand how flexibility is critical. When I started in advertising and PR, I thought I’d be more focused on creative work, but over time I found myself drawn to the strategy and analytics side. Realizing my strengths lay in strategic thinking rather than creative direction was a big shift, but it helped me focus on building skills that align with what I enjoy and excel at. Each class and project has taught me that it’s okay to pivot, as long as it’s toward what excites me most.
For a long time, I was laser-focused on breaking into the creative side of advertising, but this year has shown me the importance of staying open to related fields. Strategy and analytics are areas I wouldn’t have initially considered, but they have proven to be rewarding, playing into my strengths while allowing me to make a tangible impact. Staying flexible has kept me engaged and excited about the future, even when career paths evolve in unexpected directions.
As I think about my future, I recognize how adaptability will continue to shape my personal brand. In PR, marketing, and advertising, staying relevant means always being open to the latest trends, technologies, and shifts in consumer behavior. The brand we build as professionals, just like the brands we represent, must constantly evolve. Just as companies reinvent their image to stay competitive, I believe we, too, need to keep evolving to reach our goals.
Adaptability isn’t just a skill – it’s a mindset. Being open to new challenges, willing to learn from every experience, and prepared to shift course when necessary has been my biggest takeaway from this year. As graduation approaches, I’m excited to see where adaptability will take me next. No matter the industry changes or personal hurdles, I’m ready to embrace the journey.