We caught up with undergraduate alumnus Justin Fujan in 2014. Justin graduated with his BA and a major in Communication Studies in the Spring of 2007. In our conversation, he describes his career and how the major helped give him his start in this interview.
What have you been doing since leaving UNL? Since leaving UNL, I’ve been working in the field of elder care. I started out as a Memory Care Specialist with Tabitha Health Care and am now doing community outreach with Tabitha.
Why did you choose a major in Communication Studies? I chose to major in Communication Studies because the field encompasses so much, which appealed to me due to my varied interests.
How has your communication degree helped you in your life and career?
My degree has helped me learn what it takes to reach diverse populations; what it takes to be an effective bridge between an organization and its customers, as well as the larger community. Building relationships, within the community, is an enormous component of my job. To build successful and meaningful relationships, one must demonstrate the ability to relate to others. Organizations will always need leaders who excel at building genuine, lasting relationships.
What is a favorite memory of your time in Communication Studies at UNL?
The opportunity to take independent classes, focused on intergenerational communication, with Dr. Soliz. This helped solidify my passion for gerontology and elder care.
In what ways can alumni support our department and students? Being a resource for current students within the department.*
What advice do you have for current undergraduate students in our department?
Talk to as many professionals, within your field (s) of interest, as possible. Ask questions. Start networking. Do this sooner than later.