For high school students, a huge life decision lies ahead: choosing the major that will define the rest of their lives. Luckily, students from Ronald W. Reagan Senior High School have had the opportunity to explore career paths, specifically the field of communication, through the Speech, Public Relations, Entrepreneurship, Advertising, and Communications (SPEAC) Academy at the FIU School of Communication.
The SPEAC Academy, managed by Dr. Gabriella Portela, has been in place for the past three years, allowing students to develop skills in communications, public relations, and advertising.
This summer, students spent 10 days commuting from their high school to the MMC campus at FIU to gain real-world experience. Learning the basics of communication and why it is important. This program made sure they got just that.
The action-packed 10-day itinerary kicked off with generative AI in communications with Professor Elizabeth Marsh. Students then got hands-on experience navigating communication crises with Professor Bill Young, learned about advertising and public relations strategy with Professor Sabrina Alfonso, and explored design and media with Professor Jordan Bassadre, where they worked with InDesign to complete a creative project.
The program also included a couple of field trips. A visit to FIU’s Media Relations team, where students heard about a day in the life of the staff and what the job entails, and a tour of The Roar radio station, part of FIU Student Media.
After 10 days, students reflected on how essential communication is, regardless of the career path they choose. Whatever major they decide to pursue in college, communication will follow them everywhere.
Students left us with these quotes:
“This camp taught me a lot about the skills of communication in the professional world, and now leaving with the experience of being on a college campus and how life is here.” – Cristian C.
“I’ve learned so much about this camp. For example, we worked a lot on public speaking, the use of AI, and how to matter to the right audience. All of this will help me for my future.” – Anon
“This camp has helped me expand my communication skills, learn about marketing and advertising.” – Ana A.
“I think the camp has helped me not only in developing further my public speaking skills, but also in trying out new experiences overall”- Javier C.
“This camp has helped me improve my confidence under pressure, as well as taught me life-long, widely applicable skills. I loved it!!”- Anon
“This camp has allowed me to open up and speak to new people, understand the work behind marketing, ads, and the world of communication. I believe the skills I have learned here are something I will always cherish and take with me wherever I go. I am a better communicator! – Sabrina R.
“I think the camp is a great learning experience for many job opportunities and will help with everything overall.” – Jorge D.
“It is an educative and engaging experience. Programs like these should be given more.” Gabriel G.
We hope to see these students back on campus soon!
