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Where Are They Now?
Meet Michael Droege, BA in Communications from USC Aiken, 2000.
I graduated in June 2000 with a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis on graphic design and business marketing. After completing my degree, I accepted a position in the communications department at Encore Orthopedics, Inc. in Austin, TX.
During my time at USCA, I was able to not only make it a place of learning but also to make it my home. The faculty there has only one objective in mind and that is to educate. Through their educational processes, they were able push me to see and pursue goals I had never before thought attainable.
One thing that really stands out for me about USCA is the practice of excellence that is maintained within all the departments. No matter whether you are working with the Director of Financial Aid, your advisor, or your public relations professor, the quality of their character is insurmountable.
The advertising experience gained during the internship I held while pursuing my degree enabled me to create a cutting-edge marketing platform in an industry stagnant in ideas. Advertising campaigns I have created are now known and mimicked throughout the orthopedic world. My achievements have allowed me to advance to the Marketing Media Manager of Encore Medical Corporation in less than 3 years.
I credit the solid foundation of determination and excellence instilled during my education at USCA for my success. The professors at this institution have only one motive in mind, and that is to provide to the students an exemplary education.
I am Kathy Brantley, a 2001 graduate of USC Aiken with a BA in Communications.
I came to USC Aiken in the fall of 1998 as a non-traditional student. I had attended 3 other colleges previously, but USC Aiken was by far the best experience.
I am currently employed as an Admissions Counselor in the Office of Admissions here at USC Aiken. Some of my duties are meeting with prospective students and their families, conducting campus tours, and traveling to high schools, college fairs and other events to talk about preparation for college and to discuss the educational opportunities available at USC Aiken.
My course work here at USC Aiken, and particularly in the Communications department, was excellent preparation for my career. I learned interview and resume writing skills that helped me get the job. Every day I use the interpersonal and public speaking skills I acquired. My studies in persuasion and public relations are definitely useful as I recruit students, and I have seen how theories I learned in organizational and group communications classes apply in the “real world” of work. As I participate in meetings, planning sessions and even informal gatherings of fellow staff members, I put the knowledge I gained in those classes to use. I use skills from my graphics coursework to prepare presentations and printed materials necessary for my work. As USC Aiken seeks to encourage diversity on campus, the Admissions Office works with students and families from varying ethnic backgrounds and nationalities. My Intercultural Communications coursework prepared me to do this with insight and sensitivity.
I can’t imagine any better preparation for my career—which I love! —than my education in the Communications department here at USC Aiken.
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