Fellow Spotlight: Samantha Keitt
This week we talked with Samantha Keitt for our profile series Fellow Spotlights. We discussed what was appealing to her about joining the Spencer Frye Fellowship Program, what her best experience has been so far, and what some of Samantha’s favorite things about Athens are.
Graduation Date: May 2017
Major or Area of Study: Public Relations | Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Kennesaw, GA
Community Campus Involvement: Athens Political Union, RA in Reed
What interested you most about the Spencer Frye Fellowship Program?
The ability to actively participate in governmental media relations drew me to this fellowship program. Having a say in the media aspect has given me invaluable hands-on experience that I could not have experienced anywhere else.
What have you learned as a Fellow?
As a fellow I have predominately learned the importance of voice in politics. It is imperative to establish meaningful dialogue with constituents and Spencer Frye has effectively and efficiently done this.
What are your future goals?
One day, I hope to become Press Secretary for the President of the United States. This role will enable me to facilitate change in the media as well as continue my position in governmental media relations. I believe this is the most diverse PR role in the nation and I think I could thrive in this area.
What do you love most about Athens?
The people! I can always walk around and be greeted with a smile or hug. Everyone is inclusive and willing to help when necessary. This dynamic is unique and holds a special place in my heart.
What’s been the best experience so far?
So far, the best experience I’ve had in Athens was this year at the Auburn-UGA game. Freezing with the stadium united the campus in a way that is indescribable. Laughing, joking and spending time in community with so many people was a night to remember.
Favorite Athens hang-out?
Though this may sound lame, I love going to the dining halls. This is a chance to catch up on my eating while also spending quality time with new and old friends.
Favorite local band/musician?
Spaceship Time Travel
Where’s the most interesting place you’ve ever traveled?
Italy! My junior year of high school I got to travel to Rome and Florence and it was such an amazing and unique experience.
If you could spend a day with anyone, who would it be?
I would spend a day with my siblings. As I’ve gotten older and people have moved, we haven’t had as much time to just hang out so spending a whole day with them would be fantastic.
Name something that people might be surprised to know about you.
I don’t have a middle name
What professor has really influenced you? How so? Tell us about the impact they have made on your life?
My Italian 1002 professor. He was such a kind man and so passionate about language. I think he was the first language professor to really push me outside of my comfort zone while also being a safe net to catch me if I messed up.
Describe your dream job.
As I stated earlier, I want to be press secretary for the president. This office is so hectic and exciting. Though it gets stressful at times- almost all of the time- I am so attracted to it. This is an office of poise and control and I think I could thrive in that environment.
Why are you interested in politics?
Politics relate to EVERYTHING! The things we see, the clothes we wear, what we listen to, etc. can be related back to government. This entity controls our lives and I believe as citizens we must be invested in this control. Politics is a confusing and sometimes exclusive system, but once I learned about the inner workings I was hooked. It became super fascinating and something I love to keep up with.
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