Hi there, I'm Lydia Dodd!
I am a recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Mass Communications and Public Relations. My passion lies in the art of storytelling—crafting compelling narratives that connect brands, organizations, and individuals with their audiences.
Currently, I work as a Communications Assistant for the Mellon Pathways Program. This role has expanded my experience in content creation and audience engagement, reinforcing my enthusiasm for the PR field.
Beyond my professional interests, I love reading, listening to podcasts, and tackling a good puzzle. I also cherish time spent with my loved ones and animals, because connection—whether through stories, people, or pets—is at the heart of what makes life fun.
A Significant Pursuit
Earning my degree in Mass Communications and Public Relations from VCU has been one of the most significant pursuits of my life. However, my path to this achievement was anything but linear. I began my college journey at Brightpoint Community College during the height of the pandemic, navigating remote learning and the uncertainty of an ever-changing world. At the time, I wasn’t entirely sure what career I wanted to pursue, but through exploration and some growth, I discovered my passion for storytelling and the impactful role of public relations.
After two college campuses, nine semesters, 123 credit hours, three internships, three student organizations, two honor societies, one awesome transfer program, and countless hours spent in the library (and commuting), I have added another degree to my growing list of accomplishments! Every step of this journey—whether it was adapting to virtual learning, juggling multiple commitments, or pushing through moments of doubt—helped shape me into a driven and adaptable communicator.
The challenges I faced, from transitioning between schools to balancing academics with real-world experience, ultimately made my success even more rewarding. One of my proudest accomplishments was completing a capstone project that analyzed media strategies for nonprofit organizations, allowing me to apply my studies to real-world scenarios. Through this experience, I strengthened my research, strategic planning, and presentation skills—critical tools for a career in PR.
This journey has taught me the importance of adaptability and the power of effective communication. As I move forward in my career, I am eager to apply these lessons to a dynamic public relations role, helping organizations craft meaningful narratives.
A Creative Work
For my senior capstone course, I worked with five classmates as a Public Relations Agency for Side by Side, a local Richmond non-profit supporting LGBTQ+ youth and their families. This project was an important part of my final semester, giving me real-world PR experience and the chance to apply what I’d learned in a professional setting. Together, we conducted a situation analysis, quantitative and qualitative research, and a SWOT analysis, which shaped our campaign goals, objectives, and strategies. We then created an evaluation plan and 10 key deliverables to make the campaign actionable for Side by Side.
As the team’s graphic designer, I ensured the campaign book’s 61 pages stayed visually cohesive and aligned with the organization’s branding. I focused on crafting each page, paying close attention to detail to deliver a polished and consistent final product. This capstone experience was more than a grade—it provided valuable hands-on experience in strategic communication, creative problem-solving, and collaboration, all of which reinforced my passion for public relations and prepared me for the next steps in my career.
Fun Home and the Power of Storytelling
Fun Home by Alison Bechdel is a powerful memoir that explores family, identity, and self-expression through both words and images. The story focuses on Bechdel’s relationship with her father, her journey in understanding her sexuality, and the ways literature and art shape her perspective on life. By using the graphic novel format, the memoir demonstrates how storytelling can extend beyond just writing—blending visuals and text to create deeper meaning.
The book highlights the impact of the arts and humanities by referencing literature, theater, and historical events, illustrating how stories from the past help us understand our own lives. It also emphasizes the importance of self-expression and how the arts help make sense of personal struggles. Bechdel draws connections between her life and broader themes of identity and freedom through literary references. The graphic novel format itself is an artistic choice that enhances emotional depth, making the story more immersive. By weaving personal storytelling with cultural and artistic influences, Fun Home shows how the humanities help us process emotion and understand ourselves and the world around us.
The Pathways Program and Me
When I first began my college journey, I had no idea what degree I wanted to pursue. Like many students, I felt overwhelmed with options and unsure of which path to take. Believing that a career in technology would offer security, I enrolled in information technology classes, thinking it was a practical choice that would ensure I “always had a job.” However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that computer coding wasn’t my strong suit. It felt tedious and unfulfilling, and I knew I needed to rethink my path. After some reflection and exploration of Brightpoint’s course catalog, I discovered that mass communications sparked my interest in a way IT never had. For the first time in a while, I found myself enjoying learning—I was excited to attend class, engage in discussions, and complete my assignments. I had finally found something that aligned with my passions.
With this newfound enthusiasm, I was introduced to my faculty advisor, Janelle Marshall. She encouraged me to explore opportunities beyond the classroom and told me about the Mellon Pathways Program. Since the COVID-19 pandemic had limited in-person interactions, I saw Pathways as a great way to connect with other students, even if it was only through Zoom. What started as a way to stay engaged during an uncertain time quickly became one of the most important parts of my college experience. Pathways gave me a sense of connection and belonging that I hadn’t experienced before, along with access to a network of supportive peers and mentors.
Over time, I’ve had the privilege of seeing new students enter the Pathways Program, just as I once did—uncertain about their future but eager to find their way. I’ve watched them grow in confidence and eventually move on to exciting new opportunities, much like I have. These experiences have given me a deeper appreciation for the sense of community and support that Pathways offers. Being part of this program has shown me how valuable it is to have a support system who believe in you and want to see you succeed. I’m truly grateful to be part of something that continues to inspire and uplift students, just as it did for me.
Making Professional Connections in the Digital Age
As a recent college graduate with a degree in public relations, my first career goal is to secure a full-time position working with an in-house PR team or a public relations agency. PR is an ever-changing field that blends strategic communication with creativity, requiring a understanding of storytelling, media relations, and human connection—skills related to the arts and humanities. These capabilities emphasize critical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective communication, all of which are essential for developing authentic, impactful messages that resonate with diverse audiences.
Networking is key in the public relations industry, especially as a newcomer eager to grow and learn from established professionals. I am a current member of the Richmond chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, I plan to stay involved in events and locally connect with others in the field. I keep my LinkedIn account updated and try to stay active on the professional platforms. The digital age has made networking more accessible, allowing me to engage with industry leaders, discover job opportunities, and share my thoughts and interests through online forums and groups. These interactions can lead to mentorship, collaboration, and long-term professional growth.
Despite these opportunities, networking isn’t without its challenges. Starting out early in my career, it can be intimidating to reach out to experienced professionals, especially without an existing connection. It’s easy to feel lost in a crowded digital space where many are trying to get the same opportunities. Balancing authenticity with self-promotion takes practice, but I am committed to overcoming these hurdles by staying proactive and building relationships that will support my long-term goals in public relations.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture
Visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., was a truly moving experience. The History Exhibits were especially powerful and emotional. Walking through the timeline of history—seeing the documents and personal items from enslaved people—was overwhelming in ways I wasn’t prepared for. As someone outside of this lived experience, it was humbling to witness these stories in such a personal and vivid way. It’s one thing to read about these moments in history books, but seeing the actual artifacts connected to the lives and struggles of so many made it more real than ever before.
One of the highlights for me was the music exhibitions within the Cultural Galleries. Seeing the costumes, instruments, and memorabilia from some of my favorite artists was incredible. I was starstruck seeing a guitar that belonged to Stanley Clark. It brought back memories of listening to his songs and learning about the cultural impact of his music. From jazz to hip-hop, the exhibit did an amazing job celebrating the artistry and creativity that shaped generations. It was a reminder of the deep connection between music and history, and I left inspired, with a new appreciation for the artists and their legacies.
Beyond the powerful artifacts and exhibits, what stayed with me most was the feeling of reflection and responsibility. The museum tells a story of resilience, strength, and creativity in the face of unimaginable hardship. It pushed me to think about my own role in understanding and acknowledging history, as well as the importance of continuing to listen and learn. Walking through the museum was not just a history lesson, but a reminder of the ongoing need for awareness, empathy, and action.
Putting the Humanities to Work: Thriving in the Arts Panel
One way to tangible way to help prepare for the future is by attending discussions related to intended career paths. Recently, a panel was held featuring three professional artists. Each artist provided valuable insights that apply beyond the arts. Hearing from professionals in different creative fields highlighted the ways that creativity can shape a career. I tried to envision how to best utilized their wisdom in the world of public relations.
One key takeaway was the importance of avoiding extreme words like "love" and "hate" when evaluating work. Expanding vocabulary to describe such words allows for more thoughtful critique and less emotional attachment to outcomes. In public relations, where clear messaging is needed, this approach can help refine strategies and encourage productive discussions.
The panelists also emphasized the need for balance between work and play. Having hobbies outside of one's main creative pursuit helps prevent burnout and can inspire fresh ideas. In public relations, where multiple projects are worked on and move quickly, engaging in unrelated activities like writing, reading, or puzzling can provide a mental reset. Just as artists use alternative outlets for inspiration, PR professionals can benefit from stepping away to gain new perspectives.
Lastly, the discussion reinforced that inspiration comes from unexpected places. The artists shared how outside interests helped them overcome creative blocks. In public relations, storytelling and branding thrive on fresh ideas, often drawn from related fields. Exploring diverse influences can lead to more engaging campaigns and innovative solutions. Despite the discussion taking place over Zoom, the ability to see the panelists from across the United States (and even the world) was a great reminder that perspective can change everything. This panel solidified that creativity is a skill that can be nurtured anywhere, and I hope to apply these lessons in my PR career.