Why I Chose My Major: Strategic Communication

About Mikael

Mikael is a senior at Hardin-Simmons University who grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, located in the north-central region of the state.

He has immersed himself in cowboy culture and helped unify the student body through his contributions as Student Body President, served as president of SANGRE (Latin Student Union), created content for the HSU football and baseball teams, and served as a group leader for new student orientations.

College was uncharted territory for Mikael, a first-generation high school graduate. However, he knew that in order to succeed, he needed a small-school environment where he would be seen as more than just a number.

He was drawn to HSU for these reasons and believed attending the university would give him the best opportunity to further his education.

Mikael always knew he wanted to pursue a career involving sports, though his initial plan did not unfold as he envisioned.

He originally came to HSU to become a physical trainer, but when the program was phased out shortly before his arrival, he saw it as an opportunity to explore new passions and discover a path better aligned with his strengths.

This change prompted him to switch his major from exercise science to strategic communication, hoping to find his calling through his gift for speaking.

“I switched my major from exercise science to strategic communication because I love to talk to people and wanted to make a career out of that,” Mikael recalled.

Strategic Communication at HSU

During his time as a strategic communication major, Mikael learned how to build effective relationships with others through physical, digital, and verbal communication.

He credits Dr. Stogsdill for having a significant impact on his undergraduate experience and believes he is one of the main reasons he has enjoyed his time at HSU.

The program has allowed Mikael to lean into his love for connecting with others and has helped him discover his passion for becoming a content creator for a major NCAA Division I athletic program.

He also recognized Isaac Cervantes, assistant director for student services and leadership, as a mentor who has guided him in pursuing his goals.

“He has shown me that it is okay to make sacrifices to pursue a career you want, and he has also helped me become a better person,” said Mikael.

Future Aspirations

Mikael’s career goal is to work for an NCAA Division I athletic program in an operations or content creation role.

He wants to build positive relationships through sports while being remembered for making lasting, meaningful impacts on others.

Advice to Strategic Communication Majors

Mikael’s advice to current and future strategic communication majors is:

“Go all in! Do not be afraid to ask questions because it is the key to success,” he exclaimed.

Click here to discover educational tracks for strategic communication at HSU.