When Emily Johnson enrolled in Michigan State University’s online M.A. in Strategic Communication last fall, she hoped the program would give her a creative edge. Less than a year in, it’s already helped her land a competitive internship with Ford Motor Company and given her the clarity to pursue a future in digital communications.
Johnson, who began the program in Fall 2024, juggles coursework alongside her job as a restaurant server and soon, her new role at Ford. The hybrid internship, based at the company’s Dearborn headquarters, focuses on employee communications — a blend of event coordination, feature writing, and content creation.
“It’s exactly the kind of work I’ve been preparing for,” she said. “It’s a mix of everything I’ve done at MSU and during my other internships, and I’m really excited to bring what I’ve learned into this new role.”
Originally from the Flint area, Johnson earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan-Flint, where she said she noticed a gap in digital media training. That’s what ultimately led her to explore graduate programs.
“When I found MSU’s Strategic Communication program, every single one of the classes looked like something I wanted to take,” she said. “I was especially drawn to courses like social media storytelling and branding — that’s the kind of creative work I’ve been craving.”
The program’s 100% online format was also key for Johnson, who manages a demanding schedule. “It’s just so convenient and flexible,” she said. “There are times when I’ve been doing homework at 11:30 p.m. after a shift — it allows me to make it all work.”
Johnson has developed a rhythm, dedicating Mondays through Wednesdays to coursework and working at her restaurant job Thursday through Saturday. This balance, she said, has allowed her to succeed academically while maintaining her personal and professional life.
Among the courses that have stood out is a challenging media class taught by Professor Saleem Alhabash, which required her to write a 20-page research paper — something she’d never done before.
“It really pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in a good way,” she said. “And the group projects, surprisingly, have been one of my favorite parts. Working with classmates from all different backgrounds, some with decades of experience, has been incredibly rewarding.”
That sense of connection was unexpected for Johnson, who initially worried the online format might feel isolating.
“I didn’t realize how strong the sense of community would be,” she said. “Between the discussion boards, group work, and how involved the professors and coordinators are — you don’t feel alone.”
Looking ahead, Johnson is excited to dive deeper into digital media and analytics courses this summer and plans to apply what she learns at Ford. The experience has helped her solidify her career goals.
“I always knew I wanted to do content creation, but now I’m seeing how important the strategy and analytics side is,” she said. “I’m excited to be in a space where I get to learn what works and why.”
Long-term, she hopes the degree helps position her for leadership roles.
“I want to be a good leader and an ethical communicator,” she said. “This program is helping me get there faster — and more prepared.”
For students considering the program, Johnson offers this advice: “Don’t underestimate how much time you actually have. If you take it one or two classes at a time, it’s so worth it. And don’t be afraid to connect — the people in this program really care.”
The Strategic Communication Online M.A. program at Michigan State University is an asynchronous, 100% online graduate degree designed to enhance your digital communications in all its forms demands to be integrated strategically in advertising, public relations and media. Learn more / Apply.