Student Spotlight
Aspen Humes

by Zoie Henson, Student PR Intern

Aspen Humes is a junior from Atlanta, Ga., double-majoring in communication, with a concentration in communication and media studies and political science. Around campus, Humes is a member of I.D.E.A.L. Woman, Beyond Arrest Re-thinking Systemic Oppression (BARS MSU), and Covid Vaccine Ambassadors. In the future, Humes plans to pursue a Masters of Arts in communication at Mississippi State University and hopes to either work in public relations or local municipal government after receiving her graduate degree.

Humes was nominated by her professor, Holli Seitz, who said, “Aspen takes her talent for communication outside the classroom and is dedicated to making a difference in the community. Aspen is passionate about grassroots efforts and is currently working as a COVID-19 vaccine ambassador on campus (on top of other involvement). In our Health Communication class, Aspen is able to bring these rich experiences to the conversation and make connections between class concepts and real-world application.”

Reason for choosing communication?
I chose communication because it is a very essential and important concept that influences every part of life. I have always been very interested in human communication in general. I initially chose communication because I wanted to be a journalist but as I've matriculated through college, I have developed a deeper love for science and theory of communication.

Describe your internships!
I am currently working as the Director of Communication & Public Relations with The More Than Numbers Youth Program Inc (MTN), a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. MTN is a non-profit that focuses on helping high school seniors and juniors transition into high school. In my position I am in charge of creating flyers and social media posts, managing all social media accounts, and writing bi-monthly newsletters.

Best memory in the Department of Communication?
My best memory comes from my freshman year when I took Introduction to Public Speaking and gave my first speech in the class. Coming into college I was very nervous and shy, but this speech not only empowered me in the class but as an individual overall. It was the first instance that helped me break out of my shell and fueled my outward ambition.

Advice for incoming communication students?
The most important advice that I have for incoming freshman communication students is to trust in themselves and make connections. Coming into college can be very intimidating especially when one is surrounded by amazing and talented people. I charge incoming communication students to never doubt themselves and go for every single opportunity possible. There are so many great people and professors in the department to offer encouragement and networking opportunities. 

If you were singing karaoke, what song would you pick to sing?
If I were singing karaoke, I would choose Didn't Cha Know by Erykah Badu. While it is a vocally challenging song and I cannot carry a tune, it is one of my favorite songs and makes me feel at peace. I know that I would be able to channel the energy of Erykah Badu well and execute the song to perfection.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Shrimp hibachi with only broccoli for the vegetables. I feel as though it is a great balance of vegetables and protein; plus, it tastes amazing!

Most interesting thing you’ve read, watched or listened to lately?
The most interesting thing I’ve read lately is Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with that extra time?
I would read with that extra time. I absolutely love reading, but as I’ve been in college, I haven’t had time to read for fun.