Senior To Watch: Alex Danko

   Like a true public relations professional, when Alex Danko walks into a room his confidence and good-natured attitude demand the attention and respect of those around him. Originally from Streator, Ill.,, this public relations student joined the Illinois State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America last fall as a community college transfer student. After learning about the benefits of ISU PRSSA through COM 178: Introduction to Public Relations, Danko knew that joining the organization would set him in the right direction for a career in public relations.

   Loyalty, comedy, and outgoingness are three traits that have allowed Danko to take full advantage of every opportunity ISU PRSSA has offered him. Last year, he contributed these talents to the Relations committee in which he was, and still is, an active writer. As he builds his resume, Danko is preparing himself for a post-graduation career with either a public relations or advertising agency. “It honestly seems like the best career for me,” Danko says of a possible agency job. “I want to able to represent multiple clients and use my communication skills to convey what the client wants between them and the agency.” Aside from this, Danko also envisions himself starting his own business close to home. “I love where I am from and I love the great friends and family I have there. I really love the idea of working for small businesses back home.”

   This year in ISU PRSSA, Danko plans to cultivate his family-orientated nature by becoming a mentor to a new ISU PRSSA member  through the mentor/mentee program. “I’m always making new friends and trying to put myself out there as much as possible, so that I can be exposed to new experiences and people.” Last year, Danko was a mentee and through this program, he got advice on classes and gained a better grasp on how to navigate and reap the full benefits of his membership. “I hope to return the favor to someone that is new to the organization so that they can feel more comfortable here.”

   When he’s not devoting his time to ISU PRSSA, Danko can be found lifting at the gym, watching movies, or simply spending quality time strengthening relationships with his family and friends. “I am one of those people that you can always go to. Once I am your friend, I am at your side no matter what.” This outgoing senior definitely walks to the beat of his own drum. When asked what the theme song for his life would be, Danko says that he would pick the entrance theme for pro-wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. “No way does that play and people do not stop what they are doing and look my way.” Whether he is running his own business, or working in an agency office, Danko’s charisma, passion, and determination will definitely earn him much success in a career in public relations.

Interview by Deja Whitt

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