Member Monday--Kim Hocker

Not many people know what they want to do heading into college, but Kim Hocker sure did. She knew she wanted to study communications and low and behold public relations caught her eye. This sophomore public relations major is sure to succeed in the field of communication as she also loves to write and get involved as much as she can.

Tell us about yourself.
I am a sophomore from Tinley Park, IL and a public relations major with a minor in psychology. I knew I wanted to study communications when I came to Illinois State University, but as I explored classes, I realized that public relations would be the best fit for me because I really enjoy writing. I like to work hard and sometimes take on more than I can handle, but I am always up for the challenge.

Why did you choose to join the ISU Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America?
As a student studying public relations, I thought that ISU PRSSA would be a great fit for me because I get to explore and learn more about the public relations industry, hear from speakers who have real world experience, and meet people who share the same interests as me.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to someday work for the Make a Wish Foundation. I have a close tie with this organization and I would love to work for it one day. I think what they do is something truly amazing and I would love the opportunity to work with a great nonprofit like it one day.

Why did you decide to come to ISU?
I went to a small private high school and I knew that I wanted to attend a large university. I wanted to stay somewhat close to home, but still far enough away.  After visiting a few other schools, I knew Bloomington-Normal was the perfect choice for me.

Who inspires you?
In general, all my professors inspire me. Learning how they were once in my shoes, sitting in classes but they spent long nights at the library, and they got internships that led to very successful jobs. More specifically my brother really inspires me. He got his dream job right out of college. He has such a hard work ethic and it pays off.

What is something most people do not know about you?
I just downloaded a new application where I keep track of all the countries and states that I have traveled to, and I learned that I have been to four percent of the world and 42 percent of the United States.

What is your favorite memory of ISU so far?
This past Friday at the Basketball game, I was picked to roll in the huge hamster ball at half time. I always wanted to do that so I thought that was pretty cool!

Questions composed by Ellen Devereux