Jadeyn Sjaarda
Orange City, Iowa
Jadeyn Sjaarda

Passionate for PR

“I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” says Jadeyn of her Northwestern experience. A public relations major, she hopes to work in event planning and fundraising, with her sights set on one day starting a nonprofit to assist people who have been rescued from human trafficking. On campus, Jadeyn sings with the A cappella Choir and Heritage Singers, serves as a member of the Positive Action Committee, writes for the Beacon student newspaper, and participates in many student life activities.


The perfect fit
When I was looking at colleges, Northwestern had everything I was looking for. I knew I wanted to have small class settings and be able to get to know my professors. I also loved Northwestern’s emphasis on faith-centered learning and living. The moment I knew this was the school for me was during my junior visit day. The atmosphere on campus and the stories from students testified to what Northwestern strives to be—a community. That was something I wanted to be a part of.

Experience matters
When I was a senior in high school, I interned with a nonprofit in Orange City. My classmate and I were tasked with putting together a fundraiser. We did all of the communication, marketing and organizing for the event, and I absolutely loved doing it. I later found out that public relations involved a lot of the things I loved about my internship, and that pretty much decided my major for me.

Practicing PR
I appreciate how Northwestern’s public relations program places an emphasis on ethical practices. While public relations is about getting the public on the side of the organization we’re working for, it should be done with honesty and transparency. We’re learning how to practice public relations in a way that aligns with our Christian beliefs.

Seeking truth
When studying PR, you learn a lot about the types of media and how there are millions of organizations and individuals trying to get their opinions or messages across. It’s helped me more greatly appreciate the truth found in the words God has given us.

Insightful profs
Northwestern faculty are amazing to learn from. They have so many insights about the topics we’re learning about, which make classes interesting and engaging. It’s very easy to communicate with professors, whether that’s in person or through email. They’re also genuinely interested in their students’ lives.

Spiritual growth
Through chapel, D-groups, and conversations with friends, my faith has been strengthened, and I’m more aware of God’s presence working in my life now than ever before.

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