May 7, 2025

Graduating senior believes a well-rounded Ferris State experience prepared her for what’s ahead in the workforce

On the eve of graduation, Ferris State University senior Jenelle Poth reflects fondly on the growth opportunities that have put her on a path to earning her Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and toward an impactful professional career.

A Kalamazoo native, Poth never shied away from challenging herself academically and beyond for a comprehensive college experience.

One of her signature achievements outside of the classroom that complemented what she was learning academically was in her role as the co-president of Ferris State’s Public Relations Student Society of America chapter. Her advisor, Public Relations professor Patrick Bishop, encouraged her to pursue that leadership role – an opportunity she grabbed.  

There’s more. Poth also worked as a student employee in Ferris State’s Admissions Office.

“Once I began working on campus and doing more than just going to classes, I felt I actually belonged here,” Poth said, noting she discovered the job posting during a visit to Ferris State’s Career and Professional Success office. “Through my work, I connected with other students, met faculty who wanted to see me succeed, and overall became proud to be a Bulldog.”  

Working with the Admissions team is an active campus job. Poth participated in interviewing, hiring and helping to train other student employees in addition to scheduling and leading campus tours. She was active with orientation and other activities.

The core of her Ferris State experience has been her education, specifically, completing her Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from the College of Business. It has a progression for the young student who was unsure what her career path looked like during high school.

After graduating from high school, Poth enrolled at Kalamazoo Valley Community College where she had opportunities to explore her academic interests. Then, she reflected upon something that happened in high school. During a college prep class, Poth met a Ferris State Public Relations graduate who worked with the Kalamazoo K-Wings, a professional hockey team. That sparked her interest.

“Not every day looked the same in PR. Some days he was in the office writing and others he was broadcasting a game. Some days he spent meeting with players. Yet, all of it was contributing to the organization,” she said.

With her earned KVCC credits and a sharper focus on a Public Relation and career at Ferris State, Poth was ready to go when she stepped foot on campus in Fall 2021.

“I appreciated that Ferris State’s Public Relations program is in the College of Business,” said Poth, noting many core College of Business classes are included in the Public Relations curriculum, including Accounting, Finance and Marketing. “I believe this offers far more opportunities for me after graduation.”

Poth graduates from the College of Business on Saturday, May 10 at 1:30 p.m.

While her next move is still uncertain, she is confident that a Ferris State education and degree have prepared her for what’s ahead.

“Thinking about graduation is scary but so exciting,” she said. “I’ve gotten comfortable on Ferris’ campus but am excited for the next chapter and feel equipped to be successful wherever I may find myself next.”

Poth has extensive options – and some ideas.

“I see myself in the corporate realm, but I still struggle to define exactly what industry I would thrive in,” she said. “I hope to be in a higher executive role somewhere someday, but I can see myself being happy doing a wide variety of work. I appreciate consistency, knowing the ins and outs of an organization, and being able to put in the work and see the results over time.”