Growing up in Silicon Valley and about 30 minutes south of San Francisco taught me a lot about work ethic, academic excellence, and the idea you can always strive to do better. Although I love where I grew up, it was an extremely structured experience. Before graduating high school I felt that I was lacking independence and creativity, which are now two of the more significant traits that define my identity. This is how I decided to pursue a Public Communications major; it is relevant but also encourages invention.
When I was young I was never handed things. I had to explain to my parents why I wanted a specific item and ‘sell’ them on the positive impact that item would add to my life. In 5th grade, I designed a PowerPoint presentation for my parents to ask for a second dog. Although it was a successful ‘sales pitch’ I learned the great impact of hard work and educated commitment at a young age. I have always been a go-getter and if I want something, I will likely make it happen.
As I grew older, I had a dire need for independence—thus the reason I enrolled in college out-of-state. I proceeded to study abroad in Europe my junior year to feed my passion for exploration and satisfy my constantly curious energy. Moving on from my childhood home to the alternative, foreign territory of university was tense and awkward, but as a result, I have become a more confident young woman, living far outside my comfort zone. Since my junior year, I have discovered my drive to continue learning and developed a love for creating content because of my curious eye.
I am a hard worker and will never finish a project until I am completely satisfied. Throughout college, I have enjoyed collaborating with my peers to develop multiple advertising and public relations campaigns that have helped local businesses navigate the hustle and bustle of Seattle. I am excited about the next page in my book which includes a move back to the San Francisco Bay Area upon graduation and continuing to search for a job that satisfies both my curious and creative side.
It is compelling to see how advertising and branding are changing the world we live in, and I am excited to be a part of that change!
BEVERLY SHANE 