Grand Valley State University’s Advertising Club blends creativity with connection through client campaigns by emphasizing the importance of relationships between students and professionals. By facilitating networking opportunities, agency tours and workshops, the group enables members to immerse themselves in the industry long before graduation.
President Helena Wilson, a senior majoring in advertising and public relations, uses her position to emphasize experience and engagement. Her experience as an account executive for the National Student Advertising Competition and internship with AJGA Communications have helped her provide members with industry exposure. Under her leadership, the group has organized numerous initiatives, including agency tours of organizations such as 8THIRTYFOUR, and visits to advertising hubs in Detroit, Chicago, Ada and Grand Rapids. Collaborative events with professional organizations, such as the West Michigan Ad Fed, allow students to interact with industry leaders and gain career-defining insight.
“Our club has also been instrumental in helping students secure jobs,” Wilson said. “For instance, a recent graduate leveraged a connection with a guest speaker at one of our meetings, and now works at a local sports agency. These success stories highlight how Ad Club bridges the gap between academia and the professional world, giving members a competitive edge in their careers.”
Many students who have been part of the club have secured professional opportunities immediately after graduation. One such example is Jessica Hay, the club’s former vice president and event team lead. She has since advanced to the role of social media lead at Bloom Social in Grand Rapids.
Junior Hannah Johnson, is majoring in marketing with an emphasis in sales and American Sign Language, curates the club’s social media presence. Her cohesive and engaging approach keeps members informed of upcoming events, guest speaker sessions and agency tours. Through her work, she ensures the club’s activities are accessible and visually appealing, which helps contribute to a sense of community and professional readiness among members.
Johnson aims to present the club’s initiatives in an organized manner to social media users. The group’s Instagram page currently features a white and red theme, with graphically designed squares that maintain a consistent and visually appealing layout.
“I’m loving all the connections I’ve made thus far with Ad Club and I cannot express how happy I am that I have another year still with this club,” Johnson said.
For members, Advertising Club is more than an organization—it is a launchpad for their futures. The club breeds creativity and professional growth while providing students with the tools they need for success in the industry. By participating in tours, networking events and skill-building workshops, members gain valuable experience and connections for the years to come. With the dedication of its leadership, the club continues to shape the future of advertising at GVSU.
