Hello everyone! I’m Summer McAllaster, and I’m currently a junior from sunny Phoenix, Arizona. I’m pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Creative and Cultural Industries. I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the Student Advisory Board for the School of Communication!

College, for me, has been a time of self-discovery and opportunity. I began my college journey at the University of Arizona, where I enjoyed my time. But there was a feeling that I needed to find a better fit. That fit turned out to be Chapman University. The strong values, ideal campus size, and great location initially drew me in. However, it was the innovative and empowering atmosphere on campus, along with the vibrant student community, that ultimately sealed the deal. Following my admission, I attended a transfer session and campus tour. Walking away from that experience, I had no doubt that I’d found the place where I belonged.

Picture of Summer

Like many individuals, I was unsure which major would best fit my interests and career goals. Ultimately, I landed on Communication Studies due to my fascination with the profound impact effective communication has on our lives. Communication serves as the cornerstone of all human interactions, from personal relationships to professional success.

Through this major, I’m gaining valuable insights into how we convey ideas, influence opinions, and foster meaningful connections. Communication is not just about words; it’s about understanding diverse perspectives, employing various mediums, and adapting to evolving technological landscapes. It’s a dynamic field that equips me with skills crucial for the modern world.

This past summer, I had the opportunity and privilege of applying these skills through an internship with Nordstrom. It was a fantastic experience where I learned to lead and drive business while gaining cross-functional insights into the sales, operations, and services that set Nordstrom apart in the market. This internship allowed me to acquire valuable insight into communication and business.

Since arriving at Chapman, I’ve joined various clubs and organizations. Yet, I knew I wanted to get involved specifically within the School of Communication. Most of my time is spent in Doti Hall, focusing on my studies. So, it’s important to me to give back to a community that has had such a significant impact on my life. In this case, both Chapman University and the School of Communication have left a lasting mark on me, and that’s what led me to join the Student Advisory Board!

I’m eagerly looking forward to future opportunities and growth through internships, education, various activities, and my involvement with the School of Communication Student Advisory Board. I am confident that my position on the Student Advisory Board will yield many memories, valuable skills, meaningful social interactions, and the ability to create a positive impact on both my peers and the School of Communication.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me; you can contact me at mcallaster@chapman.edu. I hope to hear from you!