Another week goes by, which means it’s time for another #ProudProf feature of a former student. This student truly is one of the most creative, hard working, and outgoing individuals I have had in a class.
I can always count on him for the latest trends in pop culture, gaming, and emerging technology. This student is Tyler Murray. When Tyler walks in and starts a conversation, everyone notices and pays attention – and you see this both in person and how he conducts himself online as well.
He’s also very active on social media and his selfies are pretty epic. We of course had to take one each year at Integrate (it’s tradition!) and here’s one comparing the first time we met to this past conference.
One other reason why I wanted to feature Tyler is the fact as a professor, you never know the impact you have on a student’s future career and direction.This happened to me several years ago. I was at the WVU Integrate conference were I first met Tyler.
He was a prospective student of the IMC program and wanted to chat with students and faculty about the program. I remember our chat and how impressed I was of his creativity, strategic thinking, and overall memorable personality that made the room light up. I strongly encouraged Tyler to apply for the program. The next thing I know, Tyler is in the program and registered for my PR class, which he did a PR plan for Nintendo, which was stellar.
Since then, not only has Tyler graduated and had the opportunity to be selected to present his final capstone project for St. Jude’s (which only a select few were able to do this!), he is now the Director of Digital Marketing of HawaiiCon, which just happened recently in Hawaii. He has gotten a chance to go to some amazing conferences like SMMW and ComicCon (still envious he got a selfie with Dr. Who!!) Tyler also is truly an innovator when it comes to technology as well – he’s recently launched a show on Periscope (if you haven’t seen it, check it out for sure!)
In addition, Tyler is a great person – never have seen him in a bad mood and his energy and passion for technology, social media, and IMC is wonderful to see. I have encouraged several of my students to reach out to him and he’s always available to help and pay it forward. Tyler’s overall attitude, world view, charisma, and enthusiasm for the profession and helping others is really inspiring to see.
I am extremely proud of Tyler and it’s truly been rewarding to see how he’s grown and become a leading voice and force in the industry. Now I’m the one learning from him as he sets the path on new emerging tools and live streaming technologies. Very proud of you, Tyler!
Hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
