Student Spotlight
Sarah Rendon
by: Greta Allen, PR student intern
Sarah Rendon is a senior communication major from Starkville, Miss., majoring in communication with a minor in political science and a concentration in communication and media studies. Rendon is involved in Music Maker Productions, served as a New Maroon Camp counselor and director, and served as an ACCESS peer mentor. Rendon plans on attending a graduate program to receive a Master’s in Public Policy or Public Administration. She hopes to one day work for a policy organization that works to enact real change in our country.
Rendon was nominated by her professor, Holli Seitz, who said, “Whether she's working in the classroom, in the research lab, in an internship, or in her various leadership roles on campus, Sarah Rendon exemplifies what it means to be a scholar in Communication and Media Studies. She is incredibly curious and thinks deeply about important issues in communication, and then she applies what she has learned in service to her community.”
Why did you choose communication?
I chose communication originally for its flexibility as a major. It teaches broadly about the meaning and application of communication, and it allows you to take any next step with confidence. I think a lot of people in other disciplines could use some practice at honing their communication skills. Now, I recommend communication to anyone who will listen especially considering the incredible professors I've had the pleasure to learn from.
Best memory in the Department?
When I recall my favorite memories from the Communication Department, there's always a wonderful professor in the foreground. Although the details can get hazy, I always remember the way I feel when I'm in those courses. I am seen, heard, and valued for who I am. It's never hard to share a laugh with Dr. Smith or seek some needed advice from Mrs. Knight.
Advice for incoming communication students?
Do not let anyone define you in and outside of the communication department. You should never qualify your major or career aspirations to others. Be proud of the work you do and the goals you hold. At our core, we're all just trying to feel belonging and connection with others and use this community as a place to find those feelings!
Best advice you’ve received from a professor?
That our futures do not have to be linear and to take everything day by day. It's helpful to try and plan or coordinate, but you have to be willing to lean into what truly moves you to capture the fullness of your potential.
Favorite class?
Health Communication with Dr. Seitz! It was a community-engaged style course, and it was one of the first times I can remember feeling so engaged in problem-solving and critical thinking in college in a way that felt meaningful. Dr. Seitz is not only a wonderful professor, but she fosters an environment that feels safe to try new things, fail, and get right back up. This course was also so incredibly relevant to absolutely anyone who would be interested. It helps prepare folks interested in healthcare as well as those of us who may want more knowledge of how to be a better advocate in a healthcare space.
If you were singing karaoke, what song would you pick to sing?
"When We Were Young" by Adele. It's a song me and my family always belt out so it's just special to me! (I would not sing it well!)
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
My family's rice and beans with tostones (it's a Puerto Rican staple).
What’s the most interesting thing that you’ve read, watched, or listened to lately?
I recently read a book called "Piranesi," and it was one of the most unique books I've read in the past year. The author was incredibly talented at building such a strange world that still felt very tangible to the reader. If you're looking for a short, interesting read I would highly recommend it!
If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with that extra time?
I love my sleep, and I rarely do things that infringe on it or else it would be everyone else's problem. If I didn't have to sleep, I would probably read! It's one of my favorite hobbies, and I always feel like I never have as much time to read as I would like.