Meet the Newest Summer 2024 WVU Marketing Communications Students

Each semester the WVU Marketing Communications online programs are excited to welcome a new group of individuals into the MCNetwork. The WVU Marketing Communications graduate student population consistently varies in their experience and expertise, with some just completing their undergraduate studies to those holding senior-leadership positions at the world’s most elite agencies and brands. Each student brings a unique style and perspective to the program.

Meet some of the students who will be joining the WVU Marketing Communications Network in the Spring 2024 semester:

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Josh Cassem

M.S. IMC + DINFOS Cohort
Public Affairs Officer
Sumter, SC

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

I chose to pursue a WVU marketing communications graduate degree to be in an education track that aligned me with my future goals and supported my military service at the same time. I also wanted to be in a place with other students who understood where I was coming from and could better relate to my experience.

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

Outside of school, I enjoy reading books and cycling. I also never pass up an opportunity to play on a sand volleyball team.

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

I am most looking forward to learning about how marketing communications can expand, horizons, and enhance messaging both on and off of social media.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? Or a quote you'd like to provide?

“The separation is in the preparation.”

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Nicholas Danz

M.S. IMC + DINFOS Cohort
Public Information Officer, Cobb County Fire And Emergency Services
Marietta, GA

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

The relationship between the Defense Information School and WVU led me to this program. My job as a Public Information Officer for the Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services and Public Affairs Officer for the U.S. Navy allow me the opportunity to manage public relations, social media, and our brand. WVU gave me credit for my military training, previous education and the opportunity to bring marketing techniques to the public sector.

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

I'm a big Atlanta Braves fan and enjoy working part-time for them during the baseball season. When I'm not working or going to school I love to spend time traveling with my family.

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

I look forward to improving my skills as a social media marketer and content producer.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career after graduation?

I hope to advance my career in a larger leadership role managing teams of marketing professionals.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? Or a quote you'd like to provide?

Life is a marathon, but sometimes you've got to sprint.

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Tara Hanson

M.S. Integrated Marketing Communications
Senior Client Services Manager at Fast Tracking Solutions (FTS)
Buffalo, NY

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

I am always looking to learn and improve myself. My career didn't take the path through marketing like I wanted it to out of undergrad, so I want some redemption! I am looking to break back into marketing as a professional and this is my first step into it. Also, I am from Morgantown and have always wanted to be a WVU grad!

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

I love my dog and anything that I can incorporate her into. I am a huge sport, concert, and travel person. My family vacations usually revolve around something sports-oriented!

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

I am extremely excited to learn from people who have been through this program as well as my classmates who are eager professionals like myself. Building that sense of community even online is so important.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career after graduation?

I am hoping that this degree will let me open the door to a marketing career which I also get to incorporate my current experience into. My ideal position would be in a strategic marketing or project management role.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? Or a quote you'd like to provide?

My favorite quote of all time is the from Ferris Bueller's Day Off and it resonates with me even today. "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

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Antoinette Hines

M.S. Integrated Marketing Communications
Student Services Coordinator, West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

I chose the IMC program because it best aligns with my interests. I am most interested in the digital marketing component, but this program is filled with a plethora of information that will help me expand my knowledge and open doors to new career opportunities.

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

Outside of the Marketing Communications program, I enjoy working in Student Financial Services here at WVU where I can help service our students and families. I am also very passionate about working in my church, Restoring Life Ministries Inc. I hope to learn skills that will both enhance ministry and help to broaden our reach.

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

I'm looking forward to learning a variety of transformative skills that will help me to evolve and remain relevant in the world of marketing at large. I am also looking forward to working with a group of wonderful peers and prestigious professionals who will help me reach my goals.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career after graduation?

I hope that this program will prepare me to be better both in my current position and in my future endeavors as an entrepreneur.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? Or a quote you'd like to provide?

I would just say to remain teachable and that you are never too old to learn something new.

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Alyssa Terwilliger

M.S. Digital Marketing Communications
Lorton, VA

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

The Digital Marketing Communications Graduate program at West Virginia University (WVU) aligns perfectly with my background in communications and represents an ideal opportunity to merge my passion for communications with my fascination for digital marketing. WVU's program offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous opportunities to acquire certifications that will be instrumental in boosting my career prospects post-graduation. In particular, the built-in certifications integrated within the program will enable me to gain valuable skills and knowledge in a rapidly evolving field, which is vital for success in the current job market. Overall, WVU's Digital Marketing Communications Graduate program is optimal for enhancing my professional development and achieving my career aspirations.

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

When I'm not focused on my education, I find joy in exploring various hobbies. Reading and photography are two of my favorite pastimes, as they allow me to unwind and explore new perspectives. Additionally, I am passionate about road trips and hiking, which provide ample opportunities to discover new places and challenge myself physically. Lastly, spending time with my loved ones is a top priority, and I value building meaningful connections with family and friends.

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

Throughout my studies, I am most looking forward to delving deeper into the intricacies of digital marketing communications. Exploring innovative strategies, mastering cutting-edge technologies, and gaining more hands-on experience in executing effective campaigns excited me immensely. I am eager to collaborate not only with my peers, but also with industry experts, engage in practical projects, and expand my knowledge in this ever-changing field. I see this opportunity to gain valuable skills.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career after graduation?

After graduation from WVU, I envision this degree propelling me into a successful career transition. Despite being relatively new to the corporate world after several years as a stay-at-home mom and a college student, I believe this degree will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to confidently step into a new role.

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Jensen Troy

M.S. Integrated Marketing Communications
Account Coordinator at Mindful Kreative
Pittsburgh, PA

Why did you choose to pursue a WVU Marketing Communications Graduate Degree?

I chose to pursue a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications at WVU because of how flexible the program is. I love that I can continue learning while still actively working in the field. I’ll never be done learning, and I want to continue sharpening my skills.

What are your interests outside of Marketing Communications?

Outside of marketing communications, I love to travel to visit my best friends since we all live in different states. I enjoy spending time with my mom and brother on the weekends and playing with our dogs Otis and Emma.

What are you most looking forward to throughout your studies?

I’m looking forward to connecting with other like-minded marketing communications professionals. It’s inspiring to me to be surrounded by people with such amazing talents and ambitions.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career after graduation?

I hope that this degree will help me continue to be the best communicator I can be at work every day. It’s hard to stay complacent in a field like marketing communications – it’s always changing. Being able to implement new skills I learn through the program will help me grow in my role.

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