A Louisiana State University student shared on April 29 how involvement in academic competitions, campus organizations, and classroom projects has contributed to career readiness and personal growth. The student reflected on the impact of LSU’s Ready to Roar Career Proficiencies program, which aims to prepare students for life after graduation.
The student’s experiences show the importance of combining academic learning with practical opportunities outside the classroom. By participating in events such as marketing competitions and student government, students can develop teamwork, problem-solving skills, and professional networks that are valuable for future careers.
The student recounted joining LSU from Bossier Parish Community College with advice from a former admissions director: “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” Through courses like Advanced Digital Marketing and Consumer Analysis and Behavior, the student took part in projects such as the American Marketing Association Undergraduate Case Competition at Tulane University. In this competition, a team presented an outreach strategy for Mastodonte Stormwater Solutions focused on positioning the company as a leader in sustainable urban design.
Other experiences included analyzing customer behavior at Pura Vida Coffee Bar to recommend improvements based on critical thinking skills learned in class. The student also competed at the National Collegiate Digital Marketing Competition in Nashville, Tennessee, advancing to become a Top 50 Student Finalist among more than 100 participants.
Campus leadership roles have furthered professional development. The student served as Student Senator and Director of Outreach for LSU Student Government, co-presented at the LSU Student Success Summit, and participated as a Transfer Tiger Student Panelist. “Whether I’m spearheading National Transfer Student Week… or connecting with the student body,” said the student, “I’m actively ‘marketing’ the student experience to showcase the value of involvement across campus.”
According to information provided by LSU Career Center staff in their statement: “Our team is committed to ensuring every student has ample opportunities to gain experience… long before graduation.” They believe that these efforts help equip students with leadership abilities needed for future success.
Looking ahead, students involved in these programs aim to leverage their diverse experiences into careers across various industries by applying communication, marketing, outreach, and public relations skills developed during their time at LSU.