As a first-generation college student and Bill Gates Scholar, Ean Bowie continues seeking out new experiences as a third year strategic communication major. He has two internships under his belt and is looking toward a career in crisis communication.
Originally from Washington, D.C., Bowie has gained experience working in professional communication environments like Versiti, a national leader in blood health solutions, and MDCF, an events and business development firm in Maryland.
During summer 2025, Bowie interned with Versiti Blood Center of Ohio as a field sales and marketing intern. He wrote a press release about Versiti’s partnership with the Columbus Crew to promote their “Bleed Black & Gold” blood drive, an event that drew more than 150 donors who were primarily first-time donors and was covered locally by ABC 6 News. He also traveled to Milwaukee for Versiti’s intern summit and was recognized on the Yello and WayUp Top 100 Intern list for 2025.
With plans to graduate in May 2027, Bowie hopes to pursue a career in crisis communication, a field that has been shaped by the influence of his teacher and mentor Professor Lanier Holt. Holt teaches a course that prepares students to handle real-world crises effectively, and this course was a standout academic experience for Bowie.
Bowie was recognized on the Holt Official Watch List (H.O.W.L.), which Holt founded as a mentoring program aimed at helping undergraduate students further their studies into graduate and professional schools.
“I remember he told me that I have no choice but to be great in his class and in life," Bowie said. “Him being able to take me under his wing has been very important for my growth.”
Bowie also serves on the executive board for the Black Advertising Strategic Communication Association (BASCA), one of the School of Communication’s student organizations focused on preparing students for their careers by connecting them with faculty and professionals. He participated in BASCA’s professional development trip to Chicago in the fall of 2024, visiting companies such as LinkedIn, Edelman and the Chicago Cubs..
He also serves as a peer career coach for the College of Arts and Sciences and is a part of Campus Outreach, a Christian student organization.
“There are so many opportunities at Ohio State outside of the classroom that you can take advantage of and enjoy,” Bowie said. “I’m so proud that I’ve been able to connect with so many diverse groups of people during my time here.”
For Bowie, being a first-generation student means more than breaking barriers. It’s also about sharing the journey with those who made it possible.
“I’m so grateful for being able to give my dad the opportunity to experience college through me,” Bowie said. “Knowing people who came before me and never got a chance to experience things like this seems like a lot of pressure, but it’s worth it.”
Bowie knew he wanted to pursue communications because it was the best way for him to be himself through his work and enjoy what he does. His path is shaped by perseverance, gratitude and the desire to uplift others along the way.
Written by student Mia Taylor