Campus Life | November 7th, 2024

Building a Personal Career Brand at SJGC’s Grads are Back

By: Autumn Haddox | Staff Writer

Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication recently hosted its annual “Grads Are Back” Homecoming event, inviting accomplished alumni to return and share career insights. This year’s theme, “Future Impact: Building A Personal Career Brand That Can Take You Anywhere,” focused on guiding students in building personal brands and developing skills that extend beyond the classroom. 

Getting The Right Job Today That Gets You The Biggest Bag Tomorrow   

The event began with Grady Tripp, Senior Managing Partner at Greenwood-Douglas, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and substance in the workplace. He encouraged students to embrace their unique “superpowers”— skills that set them apart and can add genuine value to employers. 

“Don’t be an empty suit,” Tripp said. “An empty suit may look impressive, but without meaningful contributions and genuine passion, it ultimately falls short.” 

Tripp’s session underscored the need for a strong portfolio and aligning personal strengths with potential employers’ values. 

Echoes of the Past: A 40-Year Journey with Journey Magazine Alumni  

Journey Magazine alumni Laura Downey, Yweande Addie, Natalie Johnson, Mycah Brown, Kanya Stewart, Brandi Roman and Antonio Rosado highlighted the power of relationships in their panel discussion. They emphasized that networking is about building meaningful connections, not just expanding contact lists.  

Students were encouraged to engage with peers, faculty, and mentors across campus, particularly through organizations like the Student Government Association and the School of Business and Industry. Alumni stressed the value of these relationships, not only for immediate support but as long-term professional resources. 

A common topic among alumni was dealing with imposter syndrome. Antonio Rosado, owner of Rosado Commercial Advisors, shared his experience with self-doubt and encouraged students not to let fear prevent them from recognizing their worth. 

“Do not let fear or even yourself stop you from seeing your value,” Rosado said.  

Recognizing their worth and contributions, students can push past limitations, building confidence in their journey toward success.  

Shining A Light: Untold Black Stories  

Another highlight of the event was the panel on telling “Untold Black Stories,” featuring journalists Jessica Larché and Will Brown. They spoke about the importance of using journalism to advocate for underrepresented communities and encouraged students to view their identities as assets.  

Drawing inspiration from journalist Ida B. Wells, who used her work for social justice, they reminded students that journalism is a powerful tool for change. These two alums encouraged students to view their own identities as assets. 

By embracing their blackness and personal experiences, young journalists can bring depth, perspective, and authenticity to their work, potentially changing lives through their storytelling. 

The Short And Long Play: Navigating the Sports Media World  

The event also included a keynote from Terri Hines, FOX Sports Executive Vice President of Communications, who discussed her unconventional path in sports media. She recounted her transition from the School of Business and Industry to FOX Sports, highlighting how her experience with top-tier brands made her the right fit for the role despite her lack of direct television experience. Hines shared her unique interview experience, recalling how a planned 35-minute interview turned into a two-and-a-half-hour conversation with FOX Sports executives.  

Hines, now one of the few Black women in senior leadership at FOX Sports, encouraged students to embrace their unique skills and perspectives, even in spaces where they might feel less than.  

“When I walk into those rooms that don’t look like this [all Black], it doesn’t bother me,” she said. “I’m supposed to be there because they hired me to do so.”  

Hines emphasized the importance of confidence and diversity in leadership, noting that these qualities are vital for industry growth. 

FAMU Homecoming Experience Marked By “Remembering the Times”  

“Grads Are Back” offered much more than panel discussions. It included a career fair, a fireside chat with the dean, and opportunities for students to network, explore internships, and learn more about potential career paths. The event concluded with a homecoming convocation where Hines delivered a motivational speech. Through empowering sessions and community-building activities, this event reminded students of the importance of education, networking, and self-belief as they embark on their careers.