Meet Adrianna Vargas, 2024 Frank R. Stansberry Scholarship Recipient
The Frank R. Stansberry Scholarship recognizes University of Central Florida students who are actively engaged in their academic community and for their academic and personal accomplishments at the University of Central Florida. It is awarded to full-time sophomore, junior or senior students in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media with a major in Public Relations.
Frank R. Stansberry Scholarship is named in honor of Frank R. Stansberry, who graduated from the UCF in 1989 and was inducted into the Nicholson School of Communication and Media’s Alumni Hall of Fame in 2002. Frank is a staunch advocate for the profession and has a deep passion for developing future communication professionals, including as a member of the Nicholson School’s faculty for more than 20 years until his retirement in 2007.
Adrianna Vargas, this year’s scholarship recipient, shared with us what it meant to her to receive the scholarship and more about her plans after graduation.
Name: Adrianna Vargas
Majors/Minors: Advertising/Public Relations Major & Political Science/Pre-Law Minor
Anticipated Graduation Date: Spring 2025
What does receiving the scholarship mean to you?
Being a recipient of this scholarship is an incredible honor as it represents the faith that PRSA has in my potential to succeed. I am truly humbled by the generosity that PRSA extends to students like myself and am inspired by its unwavering commitment to fostering our academic and professional journeys. This scholarship has been a gateway for opportunities to connect with and learn from local professionals in the industry. The guidance I’ve received thus far has been invaluable, and I’m forever grateful to the Orlando chapter of PRSA.
What interests you the most about PR and communication?
Effective communication and public relations efforts are at the core of any successful organization. I realized this when I started searching for internships and found that a PR team plays a role in every industry, from healthcare to travel and leisure. What I find most appealing is the versatility of public relations practices, as they can be taken and applied anywhere. Through my brief career so far, I’ve come to appreciate the limitless opportunities available in this field.
What area of PR and communication do look forward to continuing learning about?
Crisis communication and reputation management have always intrigued me. I find it fascinating how an organization can turn a potential setback into a significant opportunity for growth and development of brand trust. Working behind the scenes, using strategic thinking and a strong moral compass to guide decision-making in a fast-paced environment may sound stressful to some, but I find it exciting.
What have been some of your most impactful classes or campus involvements?
Being a member of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women has truly shaped me into the woman I am today. The sisters I have made over the last three years have taught me strong leadership skills, instilled confidence in me, and provided guidance and genuine friendship during good times and bad. I likely wouldn’t be practicing public relations if it weren’t for encouragement from older sisters to apply for the Ad/PR program at UCF. In fact, my current position at Visit Orlando was previously held by a Pi Phi sister who urged me to apply!
What are your plans after graduation? What’s your dream job?
Upon graduation, I will begin working as a Public Relations Intern at Curley & Pynn for the summer. Afterwards, I hope to accept a full-time public relations position in the Orlando or Tampa areas. My dream, however, is to work in PR for a high-end fashion brand like Miu Miu or for a fashion magazine like L’Officiel or Vogue, creating seasonal campaigns and press materials alongside stylists and digital creatives.
