Bluefield University senior Jenny Mitchell is turning her passion for creativity into action, spearheading an anti-cyberbullying campaign during her internship with GigaBeam Networks. As part of this project, Mitchell is using her graphic communication skills to address a critical issue in today’s digital world while gaining real-world experience in marketing and design.
Mitchell is pursuing a Graphic Communication degree at BU. A dedicated student, she serves as a writer, photographer, and graphic designer for The Rampage student newspaper. “I like that graphic communication gives me an opportunity to get a job but also be creative,” Mitchell said. “I’ve always liked to make things. That’s just something I’m passionate about. That’s what I like about that program.”
As an intern, she uses her creativity and design skills to assist GigaBeam in promoting its brand and implementing its campaigns. Prior to working on the anti-cyberbullying campaign, she developed flyers for the company’s events and assisted with making employee IDs. “You’re working with a client to piece stuff together based on what they want,” Mitchell shared. “It’s real-world experience.”
GigaBeam Networks is an Internet service provider in southwest Virginia and southern West Virginia that is “breaking out into areas where people don’t have access to the Internet,” Mitchell explained. Graphic communication professor Allen Roberts connected her with the company, opening the door for her to work with GigaBeam’s Marketing Director, BU alumna Michele White.
“At Bluefield University, we recognize the importance of helping our students network within their field. Internships allow them to put what they have learned into practice outside the classroom and bring fresh ideas and talent to local businesses,” Roberts said. “Jenny is an exceptional student and it’s very exciting to see her being able to put her talent and skill to work in the community.”