Hello, wonderful UO Ad Fam.
We hope you are well and safe. There’s something incredible to be done through all the frustration and fear and that is our ability to actually push back on this illness by social distancing. Please be doing that. Listen to scientists and those who understand science. That is our hope.
But even with that assignment, we have more to accomplish. Our advertising faculty are working to plan and deliver strong classes and opportunities. As we’ve noted before, the creative industry you’re studying is based on flexibility and an astounding ability to pivot. That is what we’re doing. More, we’re asking that you model that right now, make it one of your strengths. That will be good for you now and in your career.
We know there are so many questions about the term, about summer, about the industry, about getting a job. Short term it will be frustrating. Agencies and brands are in disruption and — as they pivot — will be making hard decisions. Their focus is on many other challenges besides internships and junior positions.
But there’s good news. When those agencies and brands find their footing, they will seek new talent who:
• understand how to work well remotely
• offer a differentiated perspective about the role of brands in the world
• create with courage and empathy
• revel in being curious and productive
• see themselves as hybrids with a specialty
• can help their brand be responsible and relevant
That is all of you. That is our program. That is what we do.
So right now, your job is to consider how you learn and adapt, how you take on this challenge that will leave change in its wake, how you find your creative and courageous self.
Here is what we are doing to help you do that:
