Katie Freeman ’22
Strategic Communication: Public Relations and Advertising, and Journalism double major
Co-Founder and Director of Marketing and Communications, Indigo Jacks

How did Butler prepare you for your career?
I graduated from Butler with a newfound confidence that I attribute to the core skills I gained from my coursework, endless support from my professors and peers, and connections to professional networks in Indianapolis and beyond. However, what sticks out to me the most is the push to step outside my comfort zone. My editors at The Butler Collegian constantly encouraged me to tackle bigger stories, my professors assigned projects that required me to actively present my professional skill set to the world, and my academic advisor, Scott Bridge, was committed to making sure I was aware of every opportunity. 

One day, while planning my schedule, Professor Bridge mentioned he hoped I would consider taking Media Entrepreneurship. He believed I had the potential to one day start a brand and become my own leader. Becoming a business owner never crossed my mind, but a few months after graduating from Butler in May ’22, I co-founded Indigo Jacks with a wonderful group of women.

What skills or knowledge gained at Butler have been most useful in your career?
My foundational Journalism and Strategic Communication courses taught me the most valuable skills. In class, we became familiar with the industry’s best practices, understanding how individual roles work together within the larger editorial and marketing spheres, and even how to write a press release. I was grateful to be able to apply everything I learned in my capstone courses, completing projects that doubled as real-world experience.

More broadly, I learned the importance of being proactive. By putting yourself out there, you can gain more opportunities than waiting for them to be handed to you. Learning to “just go for it!” and carving out my lane has awarded me much more than following any by-the-book path.

What is the most important thing you learned at Butler?
The most important thing I learned at Butler was not to compare myself to anybody else. Success looks different for everyone. Other people’s wins are not to your detriment, and it is possible to celebrate their successes without detracting from your own.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this field?
I advise students interested in pursuing a career in this field to do things they are afraid of. Ask professionals for advice. Apply for things you aren’t sure you can get. Get as many internships as your schedule allows for. Lastly, I encourage you to take advantage of the resources that are available to you.