Point Park POV: Public Relations, Advertising and Social Media Major Kellie Strate '27 Student Profile
Meet Kellie Strate '27
- Major/Program
- Public Relations, Advertising & Social Media
- Minor
- College Activities
- Pioneer Ambassador, Bison Support Leader, Competitive Cheer Team, PRSSA, Uno Club, Photo Club and Environmental Action Club
- Hometown
- Tarentum, Pa.
- High School
- Deer Lakes School District
- Dream Job
- Creative Director/Chief Executive Officer
- Hobbies & Interests
- Painting, writing, photography, cooking, collecting, nature, meditation, working out, concerts/shows, parapsychology, movies and true crime.
"The public relations, advertising and social media program is very hands-on, and I always have access to great mentors and resources whenever I need them. The small class sizes allow students to work one-on-one with professors and other professionals through networking events on campus and Downtown."
What do you like about your major, and what courses have you enjoyed so far?
Point Park's public relations, advertising and social media program is very hands-on, and I always have access to great mentors and resources whenever I need them. The small class sizes allow students to work one-on-one with professors and other professionals through networking events on campus and Downtown. Students also work with clients around the city, which provides real-world experience and builds our resumes.
You’ve added a photography minor. How has that enhanced your learning experience?
I started as a photography major my freshman year and switched to public relations, advertising and social media following a conversation with my professors after my first semester. They helped me understand my strengths and interests more accurately, allowing me to still use photography as a creative outlet and an asset to my professional career. Paired with my major, my minor has allowed me to explore so many more opportunities.
What are you involved in on and off campus?
I hold three jobs, including:
- Office assistant in Point Park's Office of Financial Aid, where I mainly direct phone calls and assist with mailings.
- Bison support leader for Point Park's Pioneer Ambassadors program, where I assist students who need extra accommodations throughout orientation.
- I host and run room service at The Commoner, a popular restaurant in the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, which is about a 12-minute walk from campus.
Additionally, I serve as vice president for Point Park's Environmental Action Club, formally known as the S.A.V.E. Club.
@pointparku PR major. Photographer. Cheerleader. Leader. 💚 Meet Kellie Strate ’27, who’s building her dream career one creative project at a time, right here at Point Park. #PointParkU #PointParkUniversity #PointParkPOV @Pioneer Ambassadors ♬ Soft - The Pianist & D'Michel leb
Which faculty members have had a significant impact on you?
Dr. Jenna Lo Castro and Dr. Aimee-Marie Dorsten have helped me navigate the direction of my academic career. They helped me understand my strengths, abilities and interests, and supported me when I switched my major. Since my freshman year, Dr. Lo Castro, in particular, has served as one of the most significant mentors for me, both professionally and personally, helping me prepare and build my confidence for the future and achieve the highest level of success.
What advice do you have for a prospective student?
Visit campus or set up a virtual meeting and ask questions. I was unaware of all the opportunities and paths I would be able to take when pursuing this major. Point Park has so many resources and contacts on and off campus, especially as a public relations, advertising and social media major. Plus, I would encourage students to stay connected with their advisors and get involved with student clubs and organizations.