COMMRC Connect, the Department of Communication's student internship program, has wrapped up another successful semester. Founded in 2020 and led by Teaching Associate Professor Dr. David Molina, the program gives 10 undergraduate students hands-on experience executing real communication initiatives for the department.
Students from the Communication Rhetoric, and Media and Professional Communications majors work across three specialized groups (Media, News, and Outreach) alongside a Project Coordinator. Together, they handle everything from writing departmental news updates and managing social media to conducting outreach with students and faculty.
Across the board, interns credited the program with strengthening their interpersonal, public speaking, and written communication skills. They say the experience will carry into their careers and beyond.
MEET THE COMMRC CONNECT TEAM
Project Coordinator
The Project Coordinator serves as the first point of contact for fellow interns, leads weekly Friday meetings, and bridges communication across all three groups to ensure seamless collaboration.
Aoife Ni She held the Project Coordinator role for the second consecutive semester. A senior double-majoring in Communication Rhetoric and Anthropology, Aoife is currently awaiting decisions from several communication-focused master's programs as she approaches graduation.
"I would like to thank Dr. Molina and all my professors, especially those in Communication Rhetoric, for being very supportive in helping me figure out what I wanted to do with my career," Aoife said.
The Media Group
The Media Group encompasses three roles: Social Media Strategy, Media Production, and Graphics & Visual Design.
Annalina Powers served as Social Media Strategist. A junior double-majoring in Communication Rhetoric and Law, Criminal Justice & Society — with a certificate in Public and Professional Writing — Annalina developed a content calendar to manage posting schedules and appeared in the department's Mini Mic Monday series on Instagram. She also currently serves as Vice President of the university's Communication Club.
Madison Bozik, known as Madi, held the Media Production role after previously serving in the Professional Development position in fall 2025. A senior majoring in Communication Rhetoric with a minor in Film and Media Studies and a certificate in Digital Media, Madi produced video and photographic content for departmental events, sharing her work on the department's Instagram. She currently serves as President of the university's Communication Club and is looking forward to building her career in Pittsburgh after graduation.
"While working at the Career Center as a Communication Liaison, I met my boss, Alyson Kavalukas, who I've learned a lot from," Madi said. "I'd also like to thank Dr. Molina, who taught me tangible skills that I could take into the communication field."
Sophia Chebli served in the Graphics & Visual Design role. A senior double majoring in Communication Rhetoric and Economics, Sophia was responsible for all visual content across the department's Instagram, announcements, and newsletter. She is currently pursuing opportunities in public relations, marketing, or college relations.
"I'd like to thank Dr. Guthrie, who was my advisor and professor for many different classes, and Dr. Molina for his guidance as our COMMRC Connect advisor," Sophia said.
The News Group
The News Group encompasses three roles: Newsletter Editor, News Production, and Professional Development.
Kathrine Slavin held the Newsletter Editor role. A junior double majoring in Communication Rhetoric and Political Science, Kate formatted and produced the monthly newsletter with articles, departmental updates, and student opportunities. She also wrote and published four articles to the departmental website.
Giulia Siegfried served in the News Production role, as a sophomore with a major in Media and Professional Communications on the Digital Media Track and minors in Italian and Philosophy. Giulia interviewed communication students, alumni, and faculty on their involvements and accomplishments in the field. These interviews were written into articles now published on the departmental website.
Morgan Mccole held the Professional Development role as a junior with a co-major in Communication Rhetoric and International Studies, with Digital Media and Public and Professional Communications certificates. Morgan assisted Communication Rhetoric students in their search for internship and job opportunities related to the communication field, by posting these opportunities to the canvas page.
The Outreach Group
The Outreach Group encompasses three roles: Events Coordinator, University Outreach, and External Outreach.
Avery Buglione served in the Events Coordinator role as a senior majoring in Communication Rhetoric and completing two certificates in Corporate and Community Relations and Nonprofit Management. Avery organized departmental events such as March’s BIDEC Event, the Oratory Competition, and the department’s graduation celebration. After graduation Avery will begin a role as the Social Media Coordinator for Kala Brand Music.
“I'd like to thank Dr. Mukherjee for taking a chance and letting me become a UTA for her Media Relations course,” Avery said.
Eliana Veon held the University Outreach position. As a senior majoring in Communication Rhetoric, with a minor in Sociology, and certificate in Digital Media, Eliana extended a path of communication between the department, other departments, and clubs to facilitate collaboration and partnerships. Following graduation, Eliana will move back to Chicago pursuing positions in sales, marketing, or recruiting.
“I’d like to thank Dr. Molina and Dr. Guthrie. They steered me in the direction of what I wanted to do," said Eliana. I came in with a completely different idea in mind. Once I found the Communication Department, I felt comfortable, that I had a place to belong on campus.”
Braelyn Romanello served in the External Outreach position. As a junior majoring in Digital Media Communications on the Digital Media Track, with certificates in Corporate and Community Relations and Sports Studies, Braelyn ran the departmental LinkedIn. She created weekly updates on upcoming events, published articles, inquired, and acquired brand sponsorships for departmental events.
Written by Giulia Siegfried for COMMRC Connect