Class of 2019: Jenna Dukes

Hometown: Cypress, Texas
Major: Strategic Communication

While at Texas Christian University, Jenna Dukes ’19 was involved in the Frog Shadow Program, a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, wrote for the student newspaper, The Skiff, and volunteered for Frogs for Autism. Dukes also served as a Rho Gamma, a Panhellenic woman who disassociates from their chapter to help Potential New Members (PNMs) through the recruitment process.  

Currently, Dukes works for the advertising agency PMG in Dallas as a junior designer. “Though I am a graphic designer, which was my minor, I find myself using tools I learned in my strategic communication classes all of the time,” she said. “Creative and strategic communication go hand and hand; the strategy determines the direction of the creative. 

Dukes knew early on that strategic communication was the right fit for her. “It fits so perfectly with my love for graphic design and served my interest in the strategy behind media and advertising,” she said. “I enjoyed what I was learning in my classes at the Bob Schieffer College of Communication and felt motivated by them.” 

Preparing for the real world can be quite intimidating. Dukes talked about how the Schieffer College prepared her for life after college. “I learned how to think on my feet, always show up prepared, and communicate well with individuals from different backgrounds,” she said.  

Dukes said the most beneficial class she took was Dr. Ashley English’s Case Studies class. “It taught me a lot about slowing down and doing the research. As a student, I didn’t ever want to read or reread the fine print but doing your research is so important in knowing the core of your client and being able to serve them well.”  

Dukes was very reflective of her time at TCU. Her fondest memories included time spent with her friends. I know that’s a cliché answer, but in post-grad/working life, you don’t get to spend as much free time with your friends,” she said. “It makes me miss living with my friends and being able to spend all day together.” 

 For more information on the strategic communication major, click here