Get to know some of our College of Media students! Isabel Mercado is a Class of 2025 advertising major.
How did you know you wanted to major in advertising?
I attended a visual and performing arts high school that allowed me to pursue my academics but dancing as well. I had an advertising assignment in high school that exposed me to advertising and also gave me the opportunity to use my creativity to make a commercial for an imaginary brand. This simple project sparked an interest in me, so I started to promote the dance group I was in. I would fundraise for our dance group to help with different expenses. This gave me a taste of what it would be like to work in the advertising field on a larger scale. I knew that advertising was for me ever since this experience.
What excited you about majoring in advertising?
It was important to me to find a field that had several opportunities for me to move around with the strengths I have to offer. I enjoy the creative side of advertising that allows me to do art and design but still had the chance to grow with my writing and research skills.
Are you a part of any RSOs?
Freshman year I had the pleasure to be a part of the New Voices Internship Program, while also continuing my dance passion in a group here at the university. But due to my schedule this year, I decided to just focus on my academics for a while. I am planning to join the American Advertising Federation (AAF). I’ve heard great things about this organization for advertising majors. I want to be able to expand my knowledge and hopefully get to meet more people who have the same interests as me.
—Interview by Jacqueline Montesino, New Voices Intern