Full Name: Rachel Niemoller
What is your hometown? Groton, MA
What is your major? Communication
What is your minor (if any)? Italian; International Relations
What is your expected graduation date? May 2014
Tell us about a great experience or opportunity you've had here at Annenberg?
In the summer of 2013, I was fortunate enough to be selected for Annenberg's International Communication Studies Europe Program, where I completed 4 units of upper-division elective credits toward my major by studying worldwide practices of media and communication in London, Paris, and Prague. Over the course of five weeks, through meetings, study, and dialogue with various executives and representatives of prominent media entities(i.e. BBC News, CNN, Euler Hermes, and the Prague Castle, among others), I learned how European media companies are adapting to forces of globalization, a new "global network society", and the digital era. This has been my favorite class I've taken at Annenberg. If you enjoy hands-on learning experiences and immersing yourself in different cultures, I highly recommend this course! Another incredible opportunity I've had here at Annenberg is working for the Associate Dean. Being able to work for my school has been such a rewarding experience, and I have enjoyed getting to know Annenberg's wonderful team of staff and faculty.
What makes Annenberg special?
Annenberg is special for its outstanding professors, the substantial amount of resources available to students, its network, the internship and career opportunities offered, its fantastic student advising department, the coffee cart, its open and friendly environment, and how it is constantly adapting to what is new and relevant in the Communication, PR, and Journalism industries. Annenberg has made me love learning, and I always feel so fortunate to be a student here.
How does your major (and minor) fit into your life's plan?
Being a Broadcast Journalism major with an emphasis in Sports Media, my educational experience complements quite well with my aspirations of becoming a sports play-by-play host or even a long-form journalism reporter. My passion for sports and telling a story shines brightest through the craft of journalism, and I expect to continue painting wonderful pictures for as long as I can or at least until they force me to hang up the cleats for good.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
Just show up - You never know what will come out of going to an event, job interview, guest lecture, etc. or who you will meet. Make that extra effort to just show up to things. Following this mantra has resulted in some incredible experiences for me in my lifetime.
Embrace change-Those who are able to adapt to new environments and technologies will thrive at Annenberg (and beyond).
Don't be afraid to be afraid-We're all going to be intimidated by something at some point in our lives. What's important is how you deal with that fear or insecurity. Don't be afraid to push your boundaries - a little challenge makes life interesting!
Take advantage of all of Annenberg's wonderful resources and mentors, and get to know your professors (going to office hours, asking a question after class, or participating in research projects are all great ways to do this!).
