Written By: Jess Gale
As the academic year comes to a close, graduating students from the MEL reflect on their college experiences and share their plans for the future. For many, these years have been filled with learning, leadership, and stepping boldly into their careers.
For Public Relations major Naomi Woo, the journey from college to career has been shaped by hands-on experience and meaningful community. Her current part-time role as a Creative Resident for Salt Company has opened the door to a full-time position at Redemption Church in the Twin Cities. She will serve as the Communications Manager, where she will create graphics, manage internal communications, photograph events, edit materials, and much more.
Looking back on her years at college, Naomi is grateful for the boldness and drive that UNW gave her. Classroom experiences and leadership roles, including serving as a Ministry Partner in Residence Life, a PR Executive Staff member, and a PR/Marketing assistant, gave Naomi valuable experience.
For students looking to make the most of their time in the MEL, Naomi offers this advice:
“Work hard. Build strong relationships with professors. Find your passion and refine your focus. Balance work and life,” – Naomi Woo, (Public Relations, ’25)
Connections can lead to letters of recommendation, networking opportunities, and internships. Majors like Communications, Media Production, and Public Relations are broad. Standing out in the job market requires developing a specialized skill set. While doing all of this, remember to enjoy your time at UNW.
“Enjoy time with friends and the college experience! Work hard in school, but don’t let a letter grade define your joy. We’re imperfect people. Try your best and you won’t have any regrets,” – Naomi Woo, (Public Relations, ’25)
Another MEL student, Sara Rodriguez-Gaines, has exciting opportunities after she graduates. Sara will be working at the Minnesota Star Tribune as a Sponsorships and Event Intern. She’s excited for the opportunity to continue planning events, a passion of hers, while learning from professionals in the field and collaborating with corporations in the Twin Cities. In addition to working, she plans to travel frequently and continue pursuing her faith and new hobbies.
One of the most important things Sara has learned from her time at the MEL is how to pursue Christ despite the highs and lows of life and the significance of communication in all areas. She greatly appreciates the Christ-centered education at UNW and how professors encourage students to be dedicated and to pursue excellence. Her experience in the MEL has demonstrated the value of different aspects of Communication and how to apply those skills to her future career.
UNW has provided Sara with extensive career and life experience relevant to her field. Through class projects and event planning on campus, she has learned essential skills such as time management, organization, and innovation. Sara encourages students to step outside of their comfort zones. She advises students to dive fully into their experience at Northwestern.
“Try that club or student organization that you are interested in, continue to pursue the hobby or the different areas in Communications that you are interested in… Don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors for help or questions and don’t be scared to step into new opportunities.” – Sara Rodriquez-Gaines (Communications, ’25)
As graduation nears, students like Naomi and Sara exemplify what it means to seize opportunities, take bold steps, and inspire those following in their footsteps. Their stories highlight the power of dedication, community, and a passion. For the next wave of MEL students, their journeys serve as both encouragement and a roadmap for success.
