A full-time mother of two in Round Rock, Texas, Malena Price, is about to embark on an entirely new career. With her master’s degree in public relations through Ball State Online, she is looking for a PR firm where she can try many roles until she finds her niche. For now, she’s interested in research and evaluation of communication practices.
Q: Why did you choose to continue your education with Ball State University?
After many months of searching for the right program, I found Ball State on the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) website. At the time, Ball State was the only graduate PR program in the U.S. to have their program materials certified by this society. This was extremely important to me because I wanted to find a program that was challenging and that would prepare me for an entirely new career. In my opinion, it doesn’t get any better than this, and so far, Ball State has failed to disappoint.
Q: How will a Ball State degree carry more weight than a degree from other universities? Why?
Previously, I was enrolled in an online master’s level program at a different school. I felt as if I was paying for the degree without ever learning the information. I was basically reading the information and regurgitating it. The PR program at Ball State is the exact opposite. The professors teach. We are provided with lectures and an abundance of additional resources along with actual opportunities to put that knowledge to good use. For those reasons, I think this program provides practical knowledge that can be used immediately, which prepares you for the workplace.
Q: What has been your experience with Ball State professors?
The professors at Ball State are second to none. The entire time I have spent in the program, I have felt that even though I take classes online and I am hundreds of miles away from campus, my professors take an interest in me. I feel that my professors and other classmates realize that online learning students take such classes because of our other priorities, and they have always been super supportive.
Q: Would you recommend Ball State Online to someone else?
Yes! I think Ball State does an excellent job of including the online students in the activities that are going on at the campus. I have sat through many special presentations that are made available online. Also, the online platform is great for those who cannot make it to campus.