Students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Department of Mass Communication and Department of Management and Marketing recently took part in a virtual competition for the American Advertising Federation.
SFA was one of 18 schools to take part in the competition. More than 70 students across Texas participated.
Due to social distancing restrictions, this year’s conference was held virtually. Students were divided into teams and utilized Zoom, email and social media to collaborate on advertising campaigns for Lone Star Market, a convenience store with dine-in facilities.
Meanwhile, professors had the opportunity to hear from industry professionals as they shared information about new and upcoming changes. Additionally, professors were able to connect with each other to discuss terms such as “zoomed out, gig employment,” and more, according to Dr. Marlene Kahla, SFA professor of marketing.
SFA students took home top honors, as the top three teams comprised multiple SFA students. In addition, three SFA mass communication students were named MVP of their teams: Lindsey Baumgartner of Kemp, Ashley Jeffery of Longview and Austin Kasik of Mansfield.
Janice Cho, assistant professor of mass communication, and Kahla worked together to guide and support the students throughout the competition.
In addition to presenting their campaigns to the judges and receiving feedback on their work, the students also were given the opportunity to learn more about the upcoming National Student Advertising Competition and hear from a panel of successful professionals involved with the AAF in Houston.
By Emily Brown, marketing communications specialist at Stephen F. Austin State University.
