Master’s Alumni Profile: Emma Grace ReVille G’24

Newhouse Master’s Program: Public Relations
Current Position: Associate Director of Athletic Communications, University of Louisiana-Monroe 

How did you land your current position and what positions did you hold before it? 

The College Sports Communicators website posted this job, and I interviewed! Before that, I was a communications intern for Syracuse Athletic Communications and a research assistant for Professor Brad Horn. 

What is an average day like for you on the job? 

I spend the morning updating game notes, media guides and the rosters (especially if there was a game the night before). Usually, I am in contact with various coaches and players regarding interviews and other media opportunities. In the afternoon, I am developing new media guides for sports that are not in season and emailing the media, pitching opportunities with them. I also work with our graphic designer and social coordinator to come up with content on our teams’ various social media accounts. 

How do you feel Newhouse prepared you for your current position? 

I would not be able to write as many press releases as I do now if not for Newhouse. Learning AP Style writing and learning Adobe Creative Suite skills, especially InDesign, were crucial to the job I have now. In a less tangible sense, connecting with the media and developing connections with them has been very important, as well as thinking critically in a public relations lens. I have to balance the needs of the team with the needs of the media and find a happy medium between the two. 

Did Newhouse open your eyes to new professions or aspects of your field you may have not considered when applying?  

I knew practically nothing about public relations when I came to Newhouse, so everything I know now about public relations as a career, a skill and an industry came from Newhouse. I learned how we must essentially learn to be renaissance women (or men) and learn skills in multiple categories to effectively work as a PR professional.  

What are the moments of your career so far that have been the most important? 

Some of the most important moments in my career came from my time at Newhouse. I got the opportunity to work at the Empire State Winter Games writing press releases and that solidified what I wanted to do this full-time. If not for that opportunity, I would not have found out how much I love writing. 

What unique features encouraged you to apply to your graduate program? 

The fact that Newhouse has a sports emphasis was crucial to my decision. Newhouse’s reputation speaks for itself, but the sports emphasis allowed me to learn public relations in a general sense, but then learn how to apply it to the industry I want to work in. The one-year length of the program was also the one of the top perks to me, as I was looking to enter the workforce as soon as possible.  

Did you take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center?

The Career Development Center jumpstarted my networking by introducing me to the Newhouse Network and showing me how crucial networking can be. While the CDC did not assist in me finding the job I am at now, I remain in touch with Newhouse alumni who I found due to the CDC’s encouragement and the Newhouse Network. 

What are some of the obstacles and misconceptions that students should be aware of when it comes to navigating Newhouse and post-grad?

There is pressure that comes with going to a school with as much prestige as Newhouse. I found myself comparing my own timeline and job to my classmates, which I learned should not have been the case. Every person and every industry has their own timeline, and every job or internship will come with learning opportunities that will get you to your “dream job.” You do not need to get a job months before graduation, and you don’t need to pressure yourself about not landing your dream job straight out of grad school. 

What advice do you have for current or incoming students? 

If you are interested in sports public relations specifically, get to know Professor Brad Horn. He was a mentor and a lifeline for me, introduced me to alumni and helped me to better understand the industry I wanted to work in. Getting involved in clubs is great, but, if possible, find a professor who needs a graduate assistant or research assistant. Not only is it nice to have a job on campus, but you will develop relationships with professors, which will help you in the long run!