GVSU alumna to discuss Navy public relations job opportunities

A Grand Valley State University alumna will visit students on the Allendale Campus September 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center room 2277 to discuss public relations employment opportunities in the military.

The presentation will focus on the various ways the U.S. Navy uses public relations and the different public affairs opportunities available – both by serving in the military and also working as a Navy civilian public affairs officer.

Speaking on the subject will be Lt. j.g. Jennifer Cunningham, ‘03. Cunningham graduated from Grand Valley with a degree in advertising/public relations with an emphasis in public relations from the School of Communications. In 2009, she joined the Navy Reserve and is currently a public affairs officer with the Navy Office of Community Outreach.

Cunningham will also discuss how crucial gaining civilian work experience can be to finding success in the Navy’s civilian public affairs community.

“You need experience in the civilian world first, unless you are wanting to go into active duty,” said Cunningham. “As a reservist, they look for significant civilian experience at the very competitive boards that are held only a few times a year.”

As a civilian, Cunningham worked for the Kalamazoo Nature Center, Air Zoo and as Navy Region Northwest’s public affairs community outreach manager.

Cunningham said she will not be on campus to recruit students.

“What I want to do is tell them about the different options they have after college and answer questions,” said Cunningham. “I’m open to any and all questions – from my most embarrassing moment in the Navy to what travel opportunities the Navy has for its public affairs officers.”