Through a variety of internships and experiential learning opportunities, students in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication are combining their academic experiences with real-world opportunities. We feature a few individuals who demonstrate how a communication-focused education encourages curiosity and equips students for their careers.
Sydney Huebner, junior
Sydney Huebner
Current Role & Company: Ambassador and Content Creator for Dillard’s Campus Collective
What’s your background?
I’ve been a certified Pilates instructor since age 17 and started teaching in high school. At TCU, I’ve continued teaching and expanded into social media content creation, collaborating with brands like Neutrogena, Aquaphor and Dillard’s.
Describe your responsibilities and projects in your current role.
I create weekly Instagram and TikTok content, plan and host events like Pilates classes and “Stretch in Style,” and work with my co-ambassador, sophomore nursing major Jordi Frost. I manage vendor partnerships, track analytics, and coordinate campus outreach. This role combines my interests in wellness, event planning, and social media while sharing my TCU experience.
What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship?
Focus on what excites you and aligns with your strengths. Be intentional, be authentic, and pursue what fits your unique style.
What’s next for you?
I want to refine my content and create work I’m proud of, connecting meaningfully with my audience. I hope to eventually help brands tell intentional stories, but I want to maintain creative control and authenticity in my work.
Luc Yorkison, senior
Luc Yorkison
Current Role & Company:
Aspiring Talent Academy Apprenticeship Program at Charles Schwab.
What’s your background?
I’m originally from California and moved to Texas to pursue a career in hockey. After an injury, I shifted my focus to academics and applied to TCU for communication studies. I’ve also been passionate about finance and cryptocurrency since 2015, learning how to trade and invest. My uncle encouraged me to continue developing those skills and share them with others.
Describe your responsibilities and projects in your current role.
In my current role at Charles Schwab, I’m participating in the ATA Apprenticeship Program, applying the skills I’ve learned in finance and continuing to develop my professional knowledge.
Luc Yorkison is part of the Charles Schwab ATA Apprenticeship Program.
What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship?
I faced a lot of “no’s” before landing this opportunity, but persistence and being open and honest about my experience really helped. Learn from your failures and find what you love to do.
What’s next for you?
I plan to continue growing in the finance field, leveraging my apprenticeship experience and background in communication studies and pursuing opportunities to advance my career in the financial industry.
Sayali Patel, senior
Sayali Patel
Current Role & Company:
Communications Intern at Endeavor Real Estate Group
What’s your background?
Heavily influenced by my family’s medical background, I originally started college to pursue nursing. However, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me, and after some reflection and guidance, I switched to communication studies. I’ve always been interested in creative and social fields, and this change allowed me to explore those passions.
Describe your responsibilities and projects in your current role.
In my internship, I primarily work with site plans and leasing packages, noting important details for potential clients. I also shadow cold calls to observe how brokers adjust their communication depending on the client, which has been an eye-opening experience in understanding different communication styles.
What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship?
Don’t be afraid to explore other options, even if it’s outside your original plan. I initially pursued nursing, but finding a path that aligned with my interests in communication and creativity has been extremely rewarding.
What’s next for you?
I’m keeping my options open in fields like marketing, sales and consulting, particularly where communication skills are valued. My experience in commercial real estate has given me a taste of how versatile communication skills can be across industries, and I’m excited to explore opportunities that allow me to continue growing in this field.
Kiley Gugasian, senior
Kiley Gugasian
Current Role & Company:
Social Media Marketing Intern at Aveyo Avocado-Mayo
What’s your background?
I’ve completed a few internships with my family’s business before. This is my first internship working for someone completely new and taking on a marketing role.
What are you doing in your current role?
I manage Aveyo’s online presence by creating Instagram content and connecting with influencers and brands that share our focus on healthy, clean ingredients. I also handle in-person sales through product sampling at Whole Foods, and take on creative branding responsibilities, train new interns and coordinate influencer partnerships.
Aveyo Avocado Mayo set-up for tabling.
What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship?
Don’t be afraid of messing up. Internships are meant for learning and growing. Ask your supervisor questions — they’re there to help. Don’t hold back; do what you think is right.
I’m interested in marketing and social media, and that’s the type of work I want to continue doing. I’m interested in health and food brands, but I’m also open to other industries, such as fashion, makeup and sports. I’m looking for new experiences that let me grow while continuing in social media marketing.