From Classroom to Career: The Most Valuable Programs at Grady

by Evie Lewis

Renee Hobbs, executive director of the Popeyes Foundation

Grady College offers a variety of programs and tools designed to prepare students for their future careers. Whether it’s through hands-on experiences or skills learned within the classroom, Grady students gain practical skills that set them apart in the workforce. I spoke with current students, faculty and alumni to get their perspectives on the most useful programs for future careers.

Holly Kate O’Brien, a fourth-year journalism and new media student

The New Media Institute (NMI), a program heavily advertised by Grady, is recognized for equipping them with skills useful in their future careers. Holly Kate, a fourth-year journalism major, highlighted how the program pushed her beyond her comfort zone and helped her develop creative problem-solving abilities. The hands-on projects and team collaborations make NMI an excellent choice for students looking to gain real-world experience in digital media.

Kristen Smith, a principal lecturer at Grady, emphasized that while Canva is useful for quick and simple designs, mastering Adobe Creative Suite—Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator—provides a significant advantage in the workplace. She noted that these are professional tools widely used in the industry, and even a basic understanding can be beneficial when collaborating with designers.

Cole Faucheux, a second-year PR and political science major, echoed this sentiment, noting that although Adobe was challenging to learn, it has been one of the most rewarding skills he has acquired. Mastering these programs allows students to create high-quality content and showcase their abilities at a professional level.

Kristen Smith, principal lecturer at Grady College, has been teaching at the college for 16 years

Renee Hobbs, who runs the Popeyes Foundation and previously attended Grady for advertising, talked about how analytics are becoming a larger deal in communication jobs. She pointed out that Excel and data analysis, often associated with business programs, are becoming increasingly relevant in media and marketing. Understanding how to interpret data and use analytics tools can enhance decision-making and strategy in various career paths.

Grady College provides students with a diverse skill set that prepares them for various career paths. Whether through mastering Adobe Creative Suite, diving into digital technology with the New Media Institute, or strengthening analytical skills with Excel, students gain hands-on experience that translates directly into their future careers. The perspectives shared by students, faculty, and alumni highlight how these tools and programs shape Grady graduates into industry-ready professionals.

Cole Faucheux, a second-year public relations and political science major with an intended business minor