For many students who participate in a Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations networking trip, it represents either their first or last major experience with the Tombras School and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. These trips can inspire students’ career paths and enlighten them about opportunities and environments in their industry they would never otherwise experience firsthand.
This was true for recent graduate Chandler Dixon (‘25), who said, “It was my first time in Chicago, and I had no idea it held so much opportunity and creative energy within its culture.”
Dixon was one of eighteen students from the College of Communication and Information who visited Chicago during the spring 2025 semester to learn more about careers in advertising, public relations, and communications. They visited companies such as Golin, Pinterest, Allison + Partners, and Leo Burnett Worldwide. The Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations organizes these networking trips each year to connect students with industry professionals and provide real-world experience in the field.
Many students apply for these networking trips because they offer a chance to apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations. Most participants are juniors or seniors who are planning their next steps as they prepare for life after college. For some, these trips are their first experience in a big city, allowing them to learn from professionals in their desired fields.
Kim Le (’25) remarked, “Some of my classmates were attending, so I figured it would be a great opportunity to explore the city, connect with peers, and make the most of one of my last significant experiences before graduation.”
Le, Dixon, and their classmates observed the day-to-day operations of large corporations and engaged in conversations with employees about their creative processes.
“Stepping into the actual work environments of advertising and public relations professionals gave me a better understanding of their daily responsibilities and how much their success relies on building genuine connections,” Le said.
Dixon shared, “It was great to see how professionals work together and solve problems in different ways. The trip also taught me the value of being flexible and open to new ideas.”
They also had the chance to network with alumni from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, who live in and around the Chicago area during an alumni reception.
While attending UT, Le co-founded the Asian Business Club, led multiple student organizations, and interned while studying full-time. She made the most of every opportunity, from alumni networking trips like this one to meaningful mentorships.
“In our advertising campaigns course, we were preparing for an upcoming pitch to our client, and after attending the trip I felt more intentional about how I communicate ideas and collaborate with others,” she stated.
Since graduating, Le has started working with Paramount as a brand creative ambassador, focusing on MTV promotions in New York City.
Dixon, who majored in advertising with a minor in graphic design, is passionate about using strategy and creativity to craft unique brand stories and innovative ideas. He has worked as a design editor for UT’s student-run newsletter, The Daily Beacon, and encourages others to take trips like this one to enhance their confidence and collaboration skills in the classroom.
Dixon said, “This trip reminded me that confidence and genuine interest in this industry are extremely important. You have to be able to ask questions, step out of your comfort zone, and promote yourself.”
After the trip, Dixon realized that it expanded the types of roles he wanted to pursue, including positions in art direction, graphic design, copywriting, and creative strategy.
This trip marks a significant moment for both Le and Dixon as they look ahead to their next chapters.
Le remarked, “Having the opportunity to go on this trip in my final year feels bittersweet. It’s a full-circle moment that reminds me how far I’ve come.”
“This was my last semester at UT, and I didn’t want to miss out on an experience that could positively impact my future,” Dixon said.
Networking trips provide students the opportunity to meet professionals in various fields and learn what careers can look like in agency settings, businesses, and organizations nationally.
It’s thanks to the continued support of the Tombras School, along with CCI faculty and alumni, that these trips help students build their future careers.
If you would like to learn more about the Tombras School’s networking tips, click here.