Closing the Books on Fall ‘24
This week, we wrapped up the Fall 2024 term in Student Work. We asked our outgoing leadership team to share their thoughts on the term.
Michael Koach, Executive Media Planner
Reflecting on the start of the term feels like looking down from the top of a mountain. I am amazed by how far this group has come in just 10 short weeks. No other academic endeavor has pushed me to grow beyond my limits like Student Work. Every week, I am challenged, I am daunted, I persevere, I grow, and the rewards are beyond words. Being promoted to executive media planner was a tremendous honor. Being a leader among some of the most brilliant and creative minds at PSU has taught me more about leadership than any class. With my fellow student workers, I have faced triumphs, setbacks, failures, and breakthroughs; and watched as we climbed to unimaginable heights. I am so incredibly proud to be a part of Student Work and so thankful for the opportunities presented to me. This has been a fantastic term and I am excited for what winter term has in store.
Caden McFarland, Managing Director
The past three terms in Student Work have taught me more about the advertising industry than my other three years as an undergrad student combined. Not only has student work given me practical experience working on real ad campaigns with real client interactions, but it is also the only space on the PSU campus where I have built personal connections with my peers. I’ve spent the last two terms being a part of the executive team, and I’m lucky to find myself as the managing director for the Winter 2024 term. Marc has been an excellent mentor in and outside the classroom and has pushed me to come out of my shell and find confidence in my work and collaboration with others. Being on the executive team, I also had the opportunity to build professional relationships with mentors in the Portland Ad scene, opening up doors for myself once I graduate. Without this experience I wouldn’t be the managing director of this program, I would still be the quiet unsure student sitting at the back of the classroom.
Pema Thangur, ACD
For me, this term of Student Work was watching people find their voice, from walking unsteadily to having the momentum to have a running start. Especially since so many new people joined the term before, struggling and unsure of their newfound title as 'Copywriter', 'Account Director', etc etc.. then seeing other people do it all over again, but instead with ease, and engaging with each other is really beautiful to see. I know it all too well - as someone who started who’d rather take a step back and let other speak, its hard. But time and time again the projects push us to feel the burn and run hard. I’m proud of being a part of Student Work, a place where every single person has a passion for the work they put in, whether it takes off or if it crashes or burns. We’ll get to watch it burn with our hands clean though, hah! Peace!
Sivvany Walz, Executive Account Manager
Being in Student Work has pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and get comfortable in my own shoes. I felt like I had no idea what I was doing when I started, but after my third term I am much more confident in my skills related to advertising. The past two terms, I have been part of the executive team as the Executive Account Manager, and it has been nice working with SW newcomers who are also unsure of themselves, and help them gain confidence in their own abilities as well. I have gained many skills that will serve me well after I graduate, such as learning to work directly with clients and collaborating with a team for a real-world project. We have had the opportunity to work on accounts for some really cool brands, creating work that will go out into the world, and that has helped me become prepared for life after graduation.
Kevin Schoelen, Executive Strategist
This term I watched students find their strengths, overcome setbacks, and grow into professionals that should be hired without hesitation. The work was inspiring to see and I feel grateful and privileged to have the opportunity to see students (new and returning) find their voice. It was an amazing experience trying to manage a team and practice different leadership styles based on their individual needs. It’s uncommon to find leadership opportunities in school, where you get practical experience managing people while learning about the field and industry you hope to land in after graduation. I wouldn’t hesitate giving a recommendation to any of the students I’ve met through Student Work. Easily the greatest group project experience at Portland State, and I’m incredibly blessed to be apart of it.
Brianna Vasquez, Executive Art Director
Student Work is where individuals become more than just student advertisers — we become a community. Through it all, this experience has not only enhanced my skill set but has set the foundation for my professional journey. Allowing me to create portfolio work that I am not only proud of but can also see come to life around the city! From hours of copywriting edits to endless creative meetings, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. I have found my voice, and the opportunity to reflect my values, and morals throughout my work. As a creative executive for 2 (almost 3) terms, it has been a pleasure learning from my peers and seeing their creative processes, both individually and in group settings. The ideas that emerge from this collaborative environment are inspiring. This is a place where crazy ideas and unconventional concepts are not only welcomed, but encouraged. Here, we’re more than just student work — we’re StudentWork.