Brady Barnard, standing, speaks during a student panel at High School Communication Career Day on March 20. Other students from left to right are Grace Monaco, Diana Sidorevich and Corrine Bush. Seated at the computer is Patricia Swann, professor of Public Relations and Management. Photo: Mary Christopher

About 70 high school students from the Mohawk Valley and Albany region participated in High School Communication Career Day on March 20 at Utica University. The event was sponsored by the Raymond Simon Institute for Public Relations and Journalism. 

After listening to keynote speaker Angela Grande, a Utica University alumnus and director of Streaming Channels for NBC Universal, students participated in interactive sessions led by faculty and current students, focusing on digital marketing, social media, storytelling, sports communication, journalism and public relations. 

Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions after alumni and current student panels. 

Communication Career Day earned high marks from many of the prospective students, including Proctor High School student Eh Nee Thaw. Thaw said it was reassuring to hear current students’ early college experiences and know they shared similarities. 

“It gave a little comfort to know that we’re going to be in their shoes one day,” Thaw said. “I personally loved the broadcasting room. I got to do different jobs. It was easier than expected. I absolutely loved being on camera though.”

Here are social media posts from student participants who shared about the day: