Meet Sydney, Breaking and Entering Network Spotlight

1. Your name?

Sydney Stephens

2. What college are you attending?

Michigan State University

3. What is your major and minor?

Majoring in Advertising with a focus in copywriting and a second major in Journalism with a minor in photojournalism

4. Expected graduation date?

Spring 2025

5. What role will you break into within advertising?

When the time comes, I will be breaking into copywriting or (creative) strategy.

6. Dream agency?

FCB Chicago, Ogilvy, High Dive, or Wieden

7. What do you do within the Breaking and Entering Network?

I am the host of Breaking Ad MSU. This past year I worked to organize the Superbowl Superspam, I collaborated with a connection I made through the Breaking and Entering network!

8. Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. Where did you grow up, and how did you become interested in advertising?

Growing up I always wanted to become a screenwriter or write comedy skits for SNL, I liked the creative freedom and excitement around such a dynamic career. After watching the Superbowl and paying attention the ads I decided to give advertising a try. I fell in love with it my first semester of university. I enjoy being a “brand chameleon” and constantly having to shift and change to different voices and tones when writing for different brands.

9. What made you decide to pursue a degree in advertising, and how did you choose your university/program?

To be a successful creative in advertising I think it requires people to have discipline and stamina; consistently producing super cool and/or original ideas that produce positive results for their clients.

10. What are your thoughts on the current state of the advertising industry, and where do you see it heading in the future?

I see the advertising industry changing in many ways. I think TikTok has changed the attention span of consumers and creatives are faced with new obstacles. How people communicate is something that is always changing, and that affects how advertisers deliver their message to people. Overall, navigating digital media, specifically social media, is something that I think will be crucial to understand entering the industry.

11. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in advertising, and what resources do you rely on for industry news and insights?

I stay up to date by reading news, spending time on social media and observing the world around me. I keep up with the industry by listening to podcasts, reading AdAge and other communications/ advertising magazines.

12. Can you share any advice for other students who are interested in pursuing a career in advertising?

My advice would be to start making connections early. Get to know people, ask questions, get feedback and learn something new everyday.