Laura Leonel - Spotlight Story
June 1, 2026
Communication Studies Major, Laura Leonel, at the Stockton University campus.
Tell us about yourself and what brought you to Stockton.
I chose Stockton University because of its beautiful campuses, welcoming community,
and incredible financial support opportunities. As a first-generation college student
eager to join student life, Stockton provided me with an environment where I could
grow both personally and professionally while pursuing opportunities that aligned
with my passions in media, communications, and leadership.
Describe the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and your role in
the society.
This school year, I was later elected Vice President of Stockton’s chapter for the
2025–2026 academic year. In this role, I collaborated with the executive board to
plan events and workshops that connected students with industry professionals and
created opportunities for professional development. At the end of the school year,
I had the opportunity to attend the PRSSA National Leadership Assembly in New Orleans
alongside PRSSA advisor Jenna DeLuca and chapter president Abby Crawley, where I gained
valuable leadership insight and connected with students and professionals from across
the country. The Communication Studies program funded this opportunity.
How were you selected for the summer fellowship at Launchsquad?
Every year, the Foster the Future Fellowship program selects thirteen students from
across the country to participate in internships and professional development opportunities
designed to support the next generation of diverse communications leaders. This year,
I applied for several opportunities through the PRSA Foundation’s Foster the Future
Fellowship program. Initially, I applied without expecting to hear back, but I remained
hopeful and continued putting myself out there. Every application was reviewed by
a selection board, and qualified applicants were invited to move forward in the process
through a phone interview. After completing my interview, I waited a few weeks before
receiving the exciting news that I had been selected as the summer fellow for LaunchSquad,
a nationally recognized public relations agency based in California. I am incredibly
proud to represent Stockton University, not only as a PRSSA Fellow and LaunchSquad
intern, but also as a recipient of this year's second largest scholarship in addition
to a stipend and hourly wage.
What are you most excited about as a fellow?
As a fellow this summer, I’m most excited to gain hands-on experience working at my
first public relations agency while learning from experienced professionals in the
industry. I look forward to building meaningful connections, strengthening my communication
and strategic thinking skills, and gaining insight into the creative and collaborative
processes behind successful campaigns. I’m especially excited to learn more about
LaunchSquad’s mission, company culture, and innovative approach to storytelling and
public relations.
How has the Communication Studies program prepared you for what is next?
The Communication Studies program at Stockton University has prepared me to become a thoughtful, adaptable,
and ethical communicator. Through coursework, leadership experiences, and hands-on
opportunities, I’ve developed strong writing, public relations, and media skills while
learning how to adapt to the constantly evolving communications industry. The program
has also encouraged me to think creatively, collaborate with others, and approach
storytelling with both professionalism and authenticity.
What is your takeaway for future Communication Studies students?
Don’t be discouraged by the internship or job application process. Receiving dozens
of “no’s” will never matter if you eventually receive the one “yes” that changes your
life. Continue putting yourself out there, take chances on opportunities even when
you feel uncertain, and trust that persistence pays off. I also encourage students
to get involved in extracurriculars they are passionate about, continuously build
their creative portfolios, and stay connected with mentors and professionals who inspire
and support their growth.
What are some additional accomplishments?
I led my club, the First Ospreys, to attend a leadership conference abroad in London, England.
I attended a conference to empower Latina undergraduate students, held at Harvard University, for the second time in a row with financial support from the Communication Studies program.
I was recognized as one of two Public Relations Students of the Year by the Communication Studies Program, and recognized as one of two Student Leaders of the Year by Student Development.
️ I plan to attend PRSSA's biggest conference of the year, ICON, hosted in Orlando, Florida, in October 2026, to be recognized as a fellowship recipient.
Photos submitted by Laura Leonel.
