Student Organization: HOWL

Your Name: Ean Bowie  

Year in School: 3rd Year  

Your Major(s):  Strategic Communication  

Briefly tell us about your organization. 

HOWL was created by Dr. Lanier Holt and the members are selected by Dr. Lanier Holt. The goal of HOWL is to professionally develop and prepare students to gain admission into graduate schools, law programs, and other post-graduate programs.  

Why did you join the organization? 

I joined this organization not just because of the opportunity to be mentored by a professor of Ohio State, but to be mentored by a father figure, to be mentored by a communication professional, to be mentored by someone who knows how to maneuver in many industries and to be mentored who by someone who delivers results.  

What is your favorite memory of being on the organization? 

My favorite memory of being in the organization, hands down has to be our one-on-one meetings in Dr. Holt’s office. This is where I am able to connect with Dr. Holt on a deeper level than you normally would in a classroom. This is where I also meet other students and members! In these meetings, Holt is working with us and helping us develop not only as students but also as communication professionals.  

What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at The Ohio State University? 

I suggest all students pick the right club or organization based on two things. The first thing is to pick one or two organizations based on career aspirations. One organization that offers extensive professional development and one organization that you can use to build your resume and portfolio for those without an internship. The second thing is to pick an organization that is for fun and that allows you to escape from academics a little bit.  

How do new people get involved with the organization? 

Students can get involved with this organization by reaching out to Dr. Lanier Holt with interest and then visiting him in his office. I highly recommend visiting him!  

Student Organization: NABJ

Your Name: Ryan Simone Mathews  

Year in School: 3rd Year  

Your Major(s): Public Affairs Journalism and Strategic Communications  

Briefly tell us about your organization. 

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) focuses on being a place for journalists to connect and network with one another. Through teleprompter and lede writing practice as well as headshot meetings, we believe that further strengthening our skills in these areas can prepare students for the job force. In addition, connecting our students with media professionals allows them to build a network around the world and gain advice through their experience. NABJ is not only for journalists; it is for all people seeking to be media and communication professionals wanting to learn more, gain experience, and grow a network for their future endeavors.  

Why did you join the organization? 

I joined this organization to connect with other journalists on campus. There are not many journalism majors, let alone any organizations that encapsulate journalism besides the Lantern. Moving across the country from Los Angeles, California, finding a sense of community to bounce ideas off of and develop my craft has been really important to me. So, when the opportunity was brought to restart NABJ, I was really interested in being a part of the process so that I can finally connect with people similar to me within this field. Along with that, NABJ is a national organization around the world. So, I wanted to be a part of something that was still growing on our campus while taking advantage of the benefits around the world such as the scholarships, internships, networks, and annual convention.  

What is your favorite memory of being in the organization? 

I would say my favorite memory is engaging with/having meetings with the e-board every week. We have grown closer in the process of starting from scratch, so being able to bounce ideas off of them, all while being friends with them in the process has been really nice. But, my favorite event would have to be when we had Tyrik Hutchinson Jr. speak last year about his experience being the social media coordinator for the Detroit Lions. We had a good turnout, and also we were all able to benefit from the conversation by connecting with him on LinkedIn afterwards. We are trying to take a trip up there as we speak, so I would say learning about how he got to his position from OSU and then his day-to-day life working for a renowned sports team like the Detroit Lions was really fun.  

What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at The Ohio State University? 

I would say to make sure that you can see yourself within that organization. As a freshman, I was looking for an organization for journalists, but also someone that looked like me participating in the work. I feel that if you can see yourself being involved, make sure you identify and connect with the people you want to join. We haven’t had the biggest turnout, but the people that have come are eager to participate, learn more, and connect with us. So, if you feel inclined and there’s pieces of you in the organization, give it a shot and don’t be afraid to try something new! 

How do new people get involved with the organization? 

The best way is for people to follow our Instagram @nabjosu for any new updates. Also, our Group Me is where we talk to people the most if they have questions or we hear of an opportunity. The Group Me is NABJ-OSU 24-25. We will be making a new one for the following year. Or, directly reaching out to me via OSU email. Other than that, you can find us next year at the Involvement Fair or at any other pop-up events on the main or South Oval. 

Student Organization: The Lantern

Your Name:  Grayson Newbourn 

Year in School: Fourth-year 

Your Major(s):  Journalism, minor in Music, Media and Enterprise 

Briefly tell us about The Lantern. 

The Lantern is Ohio State’s independent, student-run publication. As an organization, The Lantern is dedicated to prompt, accurate reporting on all things Ohio State — from policy and administration changes to exhibitions at the Wexner Center for the Arts and on-the-field gameday reporting, both at home and away. We publish throughout the week on thelantern.com, our website, along with having a print edition weekly that goes out to the newsstands around campus on Thursdays.  

Why did you join The Lantern? 

I joined The Lantern after taking COMM 2223, the Lantern Practicum course that is required for the Journalism major. I had some previous experience in editorial work from high school, but I did not get involved with The Lantern until I took that course in SP25, at the end of my third year at Ohio State. I fell in love with writing again after struggling to find a major that felt like it would align with my interests and strengths and The Lantern gave me an outlet to write in a way that was intellectually challenging, yet rewarding.  

Can you describe your primary role in The Lantern and the kinds of tasks you typically work on?   

I am the Managing Editor of the Arts & Life desk. I oversee all of The Lantern’s arts-related coverage, including music/film/theater events on campus, events at local performing arts venues, concerts, student organizations — even album and film reviews! My main work consists of working with practicum reporters and freelancers to coordinate coverage, planning out which stories to run on a weekly basis, editing and fact-checking stories and ultimately drafting them on our website at the end of the day. I also communicate with PR representatives from local organizations to discuss possible coverage opportunities, not only for me, but for the reporters as well.  

What is your favorite memory of working on The Lantern? 

I’ve had a lot of great opportunities through my time at The Lantern. I’ve attended several concerts now as press, writing reviews for Buckeye Country Superfest, sombr and All Time Low. I was also able to attend the Forbes Under 30 Summit, a three-day event of networking with panels from social media influencers, CEOs and founders — successful people across all disciplines. My favorite memory, so far, has been the opportunity to interview influential people and artists, including a piece I wrote after speaking to Sasha Colby, winner of Season 15 of RuPaul's Drag Race, when she came to Columbus on tour.   

Apart from those experiences, my favorite memory of working at The Lantern has been all of the time I’ve spent alongside my fellow editors and reporters, who are some of the most hard-working, dedicated people I’ve met. From quick budget meetings during the week to print nights, every second I’ve spent in the newsroom surrounded by these people has been one for the books.  

 What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at The Ohio State University? 

It took me years to find my place at Ohio State. At such a large university, with so many different niche options and clubs to get involved with, it can either be the easiest task to find your place or the hardest. Trying new things, meeting people with interests different to your own and getting out of your comfort zone are the best ways to find the organization you click with. Sure, that advice can sound repetitive, but it’s the truth. I would have never applied for The Lantern had I not taken that course, no matter how interested I may have been in it or how stressful the idea of taking on such a large role made me — and I have not once regretted that decision, ever. In fact, I wish I had made that leap sooner. It can be daunting to be one in a crowd of nearly 70,000 students, but I wholeheartedly believe there is something for everyone at this university. If you push yourself to try something new, you could potentially find your passion, and that's worth some initially uncomfortable moments.    

How do new people get involved with The Lantern? In other words, what's the best way for new students to join the organization? 

The best way for people to get involved with The Lantern is to sign up for COMM 3189, The Lantern’s freelance course. Freelancers are required to write 4 stories over the semester to pass the course, so it’s an easy way to dip your toes into the organization and receive some course credit as well. People are more than welcome to reach out to The Lantern via email with interest in freelancing, and at the beginning of this year, we held our first freelance interest meeting. I’m sure we’ll host another meeting of that nature in the years to come. Truthfully, the best way to get involved is to just ask! The newsroom, which is located in Room 100 in the Journalism Building, is always open — come on in and talk to us. 

Student Organization: The PRactice

Your Name: Erin Estocin 

Year in School: Fourth year 

Your Major(s): Communication Analysis & Engagement major with a minor in Media Production and Analysis 

Briefly tell us about The PRactice. 

The PRactice is The Ohio State University’s student-run PR firm. Our firm fosters creativity, professionalism and learning through hands-on experience with real clients. Students in The PRactice work with businesses both locally and nationally to gain valuable experience and build their portfolios. They also receive resources and mentorship from top university professors. Our goal is to prepare our members for their future careers by equipping them with the necessary experience and tools for success. All PRactice members are paying members of PRSSA. Through PRSSA, PRactice members can attend trips and conferences, apply for the mentorship program and find internships.  

Why did you join The PRactice?

I joined The PRactice to gain real-world experiences outside of the classroom with clients. During my first year in The PRactice as an associate, I built media lists, wrote press releases and secured an online hit for my client.  

What is your favorite memory of working with The PRactice? 

My favorite memory of working with The PRactice is the bonds and friendships I have built in the organization over the past two years. Some of the people I met through The PRactice are now my best friends and I am grateful that this organization brought me these relationships. 

What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at the Ohio State University?

When looking for the right club or organization at the Ohio State University, I recommend going to the Student Org Directory. You can find organizations directly based on your personal interests.  

How do new people get involved with The PRactice? 

At the start of each semester, associate applications open for anyone interested in joining. Admission is based on available space. The application will include a writing sample and a skills assessment. Applicants of all experience levels are welcome. 

Student Organization: SGSR

Your Name: Sam Rodriguez 

Year in School: Sophomore 

Your Major(s): Finance and Marketing 

Briefly tell us about SGSR. 

Scarlet and Gray Sports Radio (SGSR) is Ohio State’s student-run sports broadcasting organization. Our mission is to create meaningful opportunities for students, ranging from on-air live broadcasts to behind-the-scenes production. These experiences are made possible through the efforts of a highly motivated student staff working in cooperation with the Ohio State Athletic Department. SGSR is committed to continuous growth and to becoming a premier student sports broadcasting station on campus. We hold biweekly meetings to schedule game assignments and prepare for upcoming broadcasts, and our team regularly covers Ohio State athletics events across all major sports.  

Why did you join SGSR? 

I joined SGSR because I wanted to immerse myself in sports media and challenge myself with something new. Even though I’m outside the School of Communication, I saw SGSR as a unique opportunity to develop new skills, grow professionally, and be part of something exciting on campus. By participating in an organization, completely outside of my college of study I've been able to develop even more skills professionally and grow my network to include a whole new group of ambitious fellow Ohio State students. 

What is your favorite memory of working with SGSR? 

My favorite memory so far has been covering the Wisconsin vs. Ohio State Big Ten playoff hockey series. Being in that environment, feeling the intensity of postseason play, and having the privilege to broadcast it was an experience I’ll never forget. These types of unique experiences are exactly what we strive to give our members at SGSR, creating moments that build a greater admiration and ambition towards the field of broadcasting. 

What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at The Ohio State University? 

Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Some of the best opportunities come from trying something that feels unfamiliar or unrelated to your major. As a finance and marketing student joining a communication-based organization, I learned firsthand that your major doesn’t have to limit the spaces you explore. Joining a group that pushes you to grow can open doors you never expected. 

How do new people get involved with SGSR? 

New members can get involved by reaching out directly to the SGSR team at scarletandgrayradio@gmail.com. From there, they can receive information about meetings, expectations, and how to get assigned to their first broadcasting role! 

Student Organization: PRSSA

Your Name: Mackenzie Smith

Year in School: Junior

Your Major(s): Major - Marketing, Minor – Communications

Briefly tell us about PRSSA. 

PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America) is a national pre-professional organization that helps students explore careers in public relations and communications. Our primary goal is to educate students about the field of PR and prepare them for their future careers through weekly speakers, networking opportunities, and professional resources. Membership also provides access to national benefits such as professional development webinars, job boards, scholarship databases, and award opportunities. We meet weekly in Enarson 311 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Why did you join PRSSA?

I joined PRSSA to learn more about the field of public relations. While classes provide a strong foundation, PRSSA oRers opportunities to connect directly with professionals and gain insight into career paths in PR. I also joined to meet other students on campus who share similar interests and career goals. Student organizations create a unique space to build relationships while growing professionally.

What is your favorite memory of working with PRSSA?

My favorite memories are from our networking trips to conferences. Last year, we traveled to Los Angeles and this year to Washington, D.C. for the PRSSA International Conference (ICON). These trips are special because they allow me to bond with fellow members, explore new cities, and develop professionally. Attending conferences out of state also provides the chance to meet so many amazing students and professionals from all around the country, giving a broader perspective on the industry and opportunities nationwide.

What tips or suggestions do you have for students who are looking for the right club or organization to join at the Ohio State University?

My advice for students looking for the right club/organization at Ohio State is to not settle. There are so many incredible clubs and people on campus, so don’t choose a group solely based on your major. Look for organizations that align with your interests and where you feel included. For example, I’m a marketing major but joined a PR-focused club, which might seem unusual, but I’ve met amazing people, gained valuable insights from weekly speakers, and grown both personally and professionally.

How do new people get involved with PRSSA?

New people can get involved with PRSSA at any time. Anyone is welcome to attend our weekly meetings in Enarson 311 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Students have the option to become a paid member to gain access to additional resources, but you don’t have to be a paying member to attend our weekly meetings. People can also get more involved by attending our social events, writing blogs, going on coRee chats with our executive board, and more.