Alumni and Student Testimonies

During my time as ESU, I chose the CMST major with a concentration in public relations.

When I started in classes, it was the first time I truly felt excited and interested to learn in the classroom setting.

Having small class sizes helped me develop long lasting relationships with my professors who not only helped with educational goals, but also with planning for my future career.

While in the program I took full advantage of the resources offered to me, such as joining the PRSSA chapter to be more involved in my studies.

My experience in the CMST department helped develop my related workforce skills, such as public speaking and professional writing techniques.

As a student in the communications department, I was able to take advantage of a robust range of co-curricular opportunities which ultimately helped me when I entered the workforce.

I was in the public relations track, which led me to be an active member of PRSSA and its leadership. Over my four years of study, I also experienced the ESU radio station and wrote for The Stroud Courier.

Our coursework was almost always tied to real-life scenarios and relevant newsworthy topics.

The professors also invited speakers to campus to talk to the department about career opportunities and paths to success.

Our professors had an invested interest in our future success and continuously provided the tools to get us there.

As a proud graduate of East Stroudsburg University’s Master’s Communication program in 2021, I can attest to the invaluable experiences and opportunities it provided.

One of the program’s standout features was its exceptional faculty.

Throughout my academic journey, I had the privilege of learning from dedicated professors who were not only experts in their respective fields but also deeply invested in their students’ success.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, they remained steadfast in their commitment to our education, offering unwavering support and guidance every step of the way.

Reflecting on my time at East Stroudsburg University, I am grateful for the enriching experiences, lifelong friendships, and invaluable skills that have shaped my professional journey.

My decision to continue my education at ESU was undoubtedly one of the best choices I’ve made, and I am proud to be an alumna of such a distinguished institution.

Thank you to the Communication Department for giving me such a fantastic experience.

My name is Sarah Pammer, and I received my Master’s Degree in Communication Studies from East Stroudsburg University in May of 2023. My journey to obtaining my Master’s Degree, while challenging, was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies from Kutztown University in 2017, and decided to continue my education in the Fall of 2019. Little did I (or anyone else!) know that the Covid 19 pandemic would begin shortly thereafter. Despite this, every single one of my professors made sure I was equipped with a wealth of knowledge and resources needed to complete my degree. For most of my time at ESU, I focused my work on feminist rhetorical studies, community outreach, and public relations and was able to apply this knowledge to my current position as a Communications Specialist at Valley Youth House, a youth & family services non-profit, where I recently celebrated my one-year anniversary. My thesis advisor, Dr. Cem Zeytinoglu, was instrumental in helping me reach my goals and focus on my areas of interest and I will forever be grateful for the time I spent studying at ESU.

Hello, my name is Mehki Williams. I am a junior communication student at East Stroudsburg University that will graduate in May 2025.

I decided to study Communication at ESU after being contacted by the former chairperson of the department of communication, Dr. McKenzie.

My overall goal is to become an on-air sports personality or media correspondent.

I chose ESU because the communication department would give me the best opportunity to succeed.

The majority of colleges consist of larger classrooms with hundreds of students in attendance.

The entire department of communication is fantastic, they are extremely helpful and provide an interesting engaging learning experience for offered courses.

My college experience has been greatly impacted by the endless amounts of help and support provided by the faculty of the communication department.

As a communication student at ESU, I hold extracurricular positions on campus such as Sports Director of 90.3 WESS and Sports Editor of The Stroud Courier.

It has been a pleasure working along with other students, learning about different elements of communication, and developing my communication skills.

After finishing my education at ESU, I am eager to accomplish my dream of becoming a sports television personality.

My name is Kathryn Pabon, I am currently enrolled as a junior at East Stroudsburg University, with an anticipated graduation date in May 2025, earning a bachelor’s degree.

My primary field of study is Communication, focusing on Broadcast Journalism and Public Communication Advocacy, supplemented by double minors in Digital Media Technologies and Political Science.

Currently, I am an intern with Congressman Matt Cartwright, facilitated by the support of my dedicated Communication professor and advisor: Dr Zeytinoglu.

Throughout my upbringing, I’ve gained a passion for productions, human psychology, and advocacy for significant causes such as the Lupus Foundation and the rights of Union workers, alongside a keen interest in politics.

Originating from Monroe County, the financial sustainability of ESU made it a practical choice for my academic pursuits. Initially, I began this journey with uncertain and disengaged expectations of ESU.

I also have cultivated meaningful connections with numerous professors, particularly within the Communication department, where professors like Dr. Zeytinoglu, Professor Kim, and retired Dr. McKenzie have provided unwavering support, inspiration, and guidance.

My academic journey has been characterized by a nurturing environment, with a notable emphasis on care and networking opportunities, which I deeply appreciate and have embraced many of the opportunities afforded to me by the Communication Department, leading to a sense of confidence as I approach graduation next spring, grateful for the support and guidance.