Students Get a T.A.S.T.E. of the Real World

FRESNO – Mass Communication and Journalism students at Fresno State got a T.A.S.T.E. of their future in their chosen professions of public relations, advertising, digital media, broadcast and print journalism or graphic design by shadowing professional mentors Wednesday.

Some 33 local businesses and   57-plus students participated in the “Take a Student to Eat” (T.A.S.T.E.) event.  It was coordinated by Fresno State’s Mass Communication and Journalism (MCJ) Department.

T.A.S.T.E is co-sponsored by the MCJ Alumni and Friends Chapter, the Fresno Advertising Federation and the Fresno Advertising Federation Foundation.

Beginning at 9 a.m., students shadowed their professional mentor at his/her office. They then attended a networking lunch at Pardini’s.  Student organizer Veronica Chan was all smiles saying, “The room was packed – you could feel the buzz in the air.”

John Ostlund, owner of KJWL Radio, said he put his mentor right to work when a surprise request came in from a client on the east coast.  Student mentor Courtney Brocco jumped right in to help.

“I had a great time,” said senior Maxine Rodriguez.  “I met with some awesome professionals that gave me more inspiration than they may ever know. It was a great event and very helpful to me.  It eases my fears on completing school and moving on to that next step.”

During the luncheon, Fresno State’s advertising students presented their National Student Advertising Campaign, sponsored by Glidden Paint. Fresno State team member Francis Vue said the presentation today before the hometown Fresno advertising and marketing community was the team’s best yet.  He said the students could “feel the love.”

T.A.S.T.E’s mission is to help students find jobs and to foster relationships, said Jan Edwards, Mass Communication and Journalism professor.

“The event gives students a chance to experience the daily work routine of a professional in their area of interest and get a ‘taste’ of life after graduation’,” Edwards said. “In this business, networking and connections are crucial and our Fresno advertising and marketing community is so generous to give of their time, talent and treasure.  Our students are truly blessed.”