Forever Orange: Fabiana Suárez ’23

Syracuse University’s Forever Orange Scholarship provides half of the tuition for students who enroll full-time in a qualifying graduate degree or certificate program at Syracuse University. The scholarship is automatically available to all Class of 2024 graduating Syracuse University seniors who are eligible for admission—no separate scholarship application is needed. Graduating seniors who have already been admitted to a qualifying graduate program are also eligible.

Learn more about recent students like Fabiana Suárez who have taken advantage of a Forever Orange Scholarship.

Fabiana Suárez 

Undergraduate Program: Communications and Rhetorical Studies, ‘23
Newhouse Master’s Program: Advertising, G‘24 

What drew you to Syracuse University for your undergraduate studies? 

Syracuse had always been my dream school. I grew up in the area, so I often went to the football and basketball games and knew that I wanted to attend college here. Once I figured out what I wanted to major in, I knew Syracuse was definitely the place for me.  

What made you want to pursue a master’s degree?  

My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Venezuela to further their education, and to give me the opportunity to do the same. I really wanted to take advantage of the amazing master’s program offered here at Syracuse — and make my parents, as well as myself, proud. I knew a master’s degree would really help catapult me into my career and give me the skills needed to succeed in the industry.  

How did you first hear about the Forever Orange Scholarship and how did it play a role in your decision to attend graduate school?

I heard about the Forever Orange Scholarship through a co-worker who graduated the year before me. Once I knew about the scholarship, it helped me narrow down my decision to attend Newhouse. Not only is it a school with one of the best advertising master’s programs in the nation, but now it was heavily discounted for me. At this point, it was a no-brainer.  

What unique features of your graduate program made you want to apply? 

The reputation of the Newhouse School and alumni network is invaluable, and staying at Syracuse offered me access to both. Furthermore, my program is extremely hands on—we are constantly working with and pitching to real clients. Lastly, my cohort is made up of an extremely diverse group of talented students, which adds to my learning experience and helps me feel supported as a Latina in advertising.  

What moments in graduate school have been the most exciting or defining thus far?  

The most exciting moment for me was when I realized that despite all the hard work I was doing and the stress of the classes, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be. It really helped my confidence as a student and professional. Another moment that sticks out for me is when our class got to pitch a media recommendations plan to Absolut Vodka. It was a really fun and rewarding experience.  

What advice would you give to students that are in the initial stages of deciding to pursue graduate school? 

Be honest with yourself and how you feel. Getting a master’s degree is not only something that costs a lot of money but requires a lot of effort and time. It is extremely rewarding for those that really want to get the most out of it. So, be honest with yourself—is this something that is worth the investment? Are you willing to put in the work? What will you do when things get rough? Another piece of advice is not to sweat the application process too much. Do your best, be yourself and have faith that you will end up where you need to be.  

For more information on Newhouse School graduate programs, please email nhmasters@syr.edu.