We caught up with Alumna Jenna Catlett in 2012. She shared some of her thoughts on how her major in Communication Studies has helped her in her career.
1) During which years were you a student at UNL? Which degree(s) did you earn at UNL? When did you graduate?
I started at UNL in August 2002, receiving my BA in Communication Studies, with a Minor in Spanish, in May 2006 and my MA in Communication Studies in May 2008.
2) Why did you choose a degree in Communication Studies?
Truthfully, I began researching the department based on a recommendation from my high school speech coach. I’ve always had a passion for public speaking and better understanding how to communicate more
effectively within both personal and professional relationships.
3) What brought you to study Communication at UNL?
My dad was a UNL graduate, from the College of Architecture, and always spoke highly of the university. Then, in the spring of 2002, I took a campus tour and it just felt like home.
4) What have you been doing since leaving UNL?
Since leaving UNL, I’ve been working for the National Research Corporation in Lincoln. I celebrated four years with NRC back in August. Currently, I lead the Onboarding Team for our Patient Experience products. Essentially, my team implements surveys on behalf of new hospitals, medical groups and home health agencies.
5) What has the communication degree brought to your career?
As an Onboarding Manager at NRC, I’m constantly reflecting on what I’ve learned throughout my undergraduate and master’s programs. My team provides our newest clients with their first NRC service experience. Building relationships through pro- active communication, active listening, constructive client feedback, and collaboration
is key to an exceptional experience.
6) What is a favorite memory of your time in Communication Studies at UNL?
My time as a Graduate Teaching Assistant was definitely what I enjoyed most. Helping my students better understand what will make them successful in a professional environment was very rewarding. As an undergraduate, I tended to gravitate toward Interpersonal, Family and Gender Communication courses (which ended up being my Master’s focus). The openness and willingness to share brought about by those group discussions was always exciting to me!
7) In what ways can alumni support our department and students?
In addition to donating to the department financially, which I know goes to help students directly; I believe we can best support our department through community involvement, and serving as a point of reference for students looking to research career opportunities post-graduation.
8) What advice do you have for current undergraduate/graduate students in our department?
You have no idea how valuable the skills are that you’re crafting right now. Enjoy your time in the department, and network with your professors, graduate teaching instructors and peers. These relationships are definitely important. I’ve found that my degree made me marketable for so many different reasons. Never underestimate the power of effective communication, efficient problem-solving and an organized delivery.