I just realized it has been a few weeks since I wrote my last #ProudProf feature and wanted to make sure to acknowledge and recognize one of my very first social media students at UofL.
This student was great – very creative, insightful, and driven to work in the industry. He actively was present in class and in the past three years has continued his professional development from Louisville to now Chicago. The former student I am talking about is Aaron Martinson.
I first had Aaron in my Introduction in Strategic Communications class at the University of Louisville back in 2o12 (wow, has it been three years?!). I remember Aaron would come by my office and talk about social media and the local Louisville scene (which is great!). I could see even then he had an interest in PR and social media, which lead him to take my social media class the following semester.
Aaron, along with Lizelle (who was another #ProudProf feature), took the very first social media class I offered at the University of Louisville in 2013. What struck out to me when I had Aaron in class was I realized what it looked like when a student had a “spark” moment. We hear a lot of times when the lightbulb goes off for students when they get the concept you are talking about in class. A spark moment is when you see a student get that look like – I not only get this, but I want to go on in this field, which is awesome to witness as a professor.
Aaron speaking to #Freberg15 about Interapt and Future Trends
After graduation, Aaron went on to work at Interapt (a great and innovative company here in Louisville!) and came by #Freberg15 this past spring to share his insights about wearable technologies, AR/VR, and future trends students need to be aware of now. It was great to see Aaron share with my current students best tips and advice for how to get involved in this area. That’s the ultimate goal for me is to see former students mentor future professionals in the industry.
Now, Aaron has joined another great brand in Cision in Chicago working in Business Development.
I am very happy for Aaron for all of the success he’s had since he’s been at the University of Louisville. It’s awesome to see students excel in a field that they are an active participant in and continue being a life long learner.
Very proud of all you have done Aaron and keep up the amazing work in Chicago! #ProudProf
Hope you are all having a great day!
Best Wishes,
