In November 2024, Florida State University’s Advertising Club traveled to New York City for their annual networking trip, visiting top industry names like SiriusXM, Mother, Gradient Experience, Ogilvy, Wieden + Kennedy, and The New York Times.
The goal of the networking trip was to help students make connections with alumni in the advertising industry.
“It is super inspiring to see real-life success stories of alumni who have made it in NYC,” said Ad Club Vice President Parker Ladle. “Being able to visit agencies and learn first-hand about the day-to-day in the industry provides invaluable knowledge that the classroom can’t.”
Ladle’s favorite companies were Mother and Wieden & Kennedy. “Both agencies had such cool offices, great company culture, and produced amazing work,” she explained. “Speaking to strategists, copywriters, project managers, and creative directors from these agencies inspired and motivated me as I prepare for a career in the advertising industry!”
“Networking with leading agencies in the advertising industry was eye-opening,” said outreach coordinator Julie Flinchum, “I learned so much about building campaigns through each department, and how they all come together to give a fully immersive strategy and campaign to their clients.”
“Walking into some of the top agencies in the world and connecting with industry leaders in the heart of New York City was nothing short of surreal—a true full-circle moment,” said Digital Coordinator Amanda Flinchbaugh, who helped organize the trip. “I’ll always be grateful for the chance to bring this year’s trip to life and leave a mark on an organization that has given me so much!”
Sophomore Maggie Metz went on the trip to gain perspective on her future career. “The main reason I felt drawn to this experience was to step out of the bubble of my everyday collegiate life and have the chance to visualize a potential future,” Metz explained. “I feel strongly that the realm of advertising is my best career route, so to speak with others who have the same creative fire and desire to make it happen for themselves was inspiring.”