Rachel Loudd (B.A. in Communication Studies, 2022) was a non-traditional student who returned to IU Indianapolis in 2014 to complete her bachelor’s degree. Rachel juggled full-time work and her academic learning load, while also leaning into hands-on experiences like working for Indy Fuel as a Pit Crew Skater, volunteering for brand promotions, and organizing community events to stay rooted in her passions. “Internships weren’t possible for me, so I created my own opportunities,” she says. Rachel’s story underscores the importance of persistence and following your passion.
She credits professors like Trevor Potts and Kim White-Mills for helping her understand the power of interpersonal and organizational communication.“They helped me build confidence and understand how to adapt in professional environments.” Today, she combines her love for media, people, and performance-emceeing events, connecting with fans, and spreading joy on screen. Her advice to students? “Consistently study up on your skills and find ways to improve your craft."
Rachel quickly found her place in the corporate world, landing a role as the Television Draw Host and Emcee for the Hoosier Lottery through Next Start Media Group/Fox 59. Her role blends her passion for performance, her background in hospitality, and her degree in communication studies. “Being prepared, adaptable, and confident is key in broadcasting,” Rachel said. “I use interpersonal and organizational communication every day-whether I’m reading from a teleprompter or engaging with a live audience.” When Rachel steps in front of the camera as a Draw Host for the Hoosier Lottery on Fox59, she’s not just reading a script-she’s connecting with an audience. From her early days as a competitive figure skater and pianist to her work in event planning and hospitality, Rachel has always gravitated toward performance and people.
She advises current students and recent graduates to practice being punctual, enthusiastic, and willing to go the extra mile. "No matter your background, always focus on the things that make you stand out," Rachel adds. “Stay prepared. Stay passionate. And don’t be afraid to rest and reset-you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Chloe loved books and writing from a young age. She read a lot growing up and really enjoys discussing literary works with friends, family, and colleagues. She particularly enjoys historical fiction, which is one of her favorite genres. She has brought her love for storytelling to the corporate world as an Assistant Editor at Princeton University Press, where she works behind the scenes on major academic works, shaping manuscripts, and managing the details that bring books to life. With a background in writing and a deep appreciation for literature, Chloe finds her liberal arts education a valuable asset in her current role. For Chloe Coy, language has always been more than just a tool-it’s a way to bring clarity and beauty to the world.
At IU Indianapolis, she majored in English with a concentration in Literature with minors in Writing and History. During her studies, she talked with Professor Megan Musgrave about what kind of job she wanted and what industry she wanted to be in. Following Professor Musgrave’s advice to pursue a career in publishing, specifically academic book publishing, Chloe decided to participate in the Summer Publishing Institute at NYU after graduating, which led her to experience an intensive summer course that introduced her to all things publishing, including marketing, publicity, and production of a book. The Summer Publishing Institute helped Chloe build her professional network, as she conducted informational interviews with a few of the presenters of the summer institute. After the summer institute experience, Chloe landed a role as an Editorial Assistant at Princeton University Press, where she is now an Assistant Editor and helps shepherd scholarly books into the world.
At the IU School of Liberal Arts Indianapolis, Chloe learned how to write and research rigorously, but also how to collaborate and communicate across disciplines. She draws on those experiences daily-especially when working with scholars and navigating editorial decisions. Chloe credits her undergraduate experience with sharpening her critical thinking, time management, and writing skills-abilities she uses when reviewing manuscripts and communicating with authors. “I use my communication skills every day-whether it's editing manuscripts, working with authors, or collaborating with colleagues," Chloe reflects. "My liberal arts background taught me to think critically and to approach each task with both creativity and discipline."
Chloe's path to editing was not linear, but she credits her time at IU Indianapolis for giving her the confidence to pursue her passion for publishing. "My professors, particularly in literature, pushed me to think beyond the classroom and to develop my voice as a writer and editor," she shares. "I also learned how to work under pressure, which has been incredibly valuable in my editing career."
Chloe initially applied for an internship position at Princeton Press, but during the interview process, she was offered a full-time editorial position as the Assistant Editor where she works closely with two editors. “Publishing is fast-paced,” Chloe shared. “But my liberal arts background taught me how to think deeply and express ideas clearly-skills that never go out of style.” What drives her? “The magic of books,” she says. “Seeing ideas take shape and knowing I’ve helped amplify someone’s voice is incredibly rewarding.”
Chloe’s advice for students interested in publishing or editing? She recommends interning in publishing or communications to gain hands-on experience. “The more exposure you can get to the industry that you’re interested in, the better,” she advises. In addition, “Be open. Read widely. Say yes to unexpected opportunities-you never know where they’ll lead.”
Virginia is a rising star in corporate communications, currently serving as a Communications Specialist at JD Finish Line. Virginia’s role involves creating compelling narratives, managing internal and external communications, and helping shape the brand’s message to a broad audience. She has quickly established herself as a key player in the corporate communications landscape.
From a young age, Virginia was captivated by the power of communication. Virginia’s decision to pursue Communication Studies was driven by her love for storytelling and connecting with others. "At IU Indianapolis, I learned how to craft messages that resonate with different audiences. This skill has been invaluable in my current role, where I communicate across various platforms and with diverse stakeholders," she explains.
Her liberal arts education at IU Indianapolis also allowed her to develop essential skills in crafting compelling messages, managing media relationships, and understanding organizational structures. "My education in Communication Studies gave me the tools to understand not just how to communicate, but also why and when to communicate," Virginia shares. "What I learned at IU Indianapolis—particularly in my organizational communication courses—has had a lasting impact on how I approach my work today."
In addition to technical communication skills, Virginia attributes much of her success to the adaptable mindset instilled by her liberal arts education. “I’m able to be flexible and effective in a constantly changing corporate environment, whether I'm responding to internal communication needs or managing external messaging,” she says. Virginia also developed a deeper understanding of organizational dynamics. "My classes in organizational communication taught me how to work effectively within teams, understand internal structures, and manage change," she says.
Virginia also emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to the values of her liberal arts education. "Being a part of the IU community has shaped how I approach my work and interact with colleagues and clients," she shares. "I remain involved in networking events and enjoy attending local social events to stay grounded in the values that my liberal arts education instilled in me."
For current students and recent graduates looking to follow a similar path, Virginia advises, “Stay true to your passions, be adaptable, and build your network early. The skills you develop through your liberal arts education can take you further than you might expect.”