1/3/12
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John Hollemon III '14 |
Communication Studies is a vibrant major—one that really speaks to Randolph-Macon College student
John Hollemon III '14.
The Richmond, Virginia native originally thought he'd major in
economics/business. Then he enrolled in Interpersonal and Small Group Communication.
"I fell in love with communication studies," says Hollemon. "Professors Marilyn Mattys and William Roberts were great at explaining different kinds of communication—including interpersonal, group, organizational and public—and the importance of having solid communication skills. To my delight, R-MC added a communication studies major in 2010, and my life changed direction. I immediately declared it as my major."
R-MC's pedestrian-friendly campus and top-notch faculty make Hollemon feel right at home.
"I love the community atmosphere and the fact that I can walk to classes," he says. "And I love knowing that a liberal arts degree from R-MC is helping me become a well-rounded person." Hollemon, who is minoring in
Black studies,
Asian studies, and English literature, is grateful to R-MC professors for their mentorship.
"Professors Marilyn Mattys (communication studies), Joe Mattys (drama) and Alphine Jefferson (Black studies) keep me on track and are always there if I need help," he says. "They have been instrumental in my collegiate success and their encouragement sustains me."
In 2010, Hollemon was selected as a Sullivan Scholar and represented R-MC at the Sullivan Foundation Institute, hosted at The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. The intensive three-week program teaches students about social entrepreneurship. Hollemon, who earned academic credit for coursework completed at the Institute, says the experience was enriching.
"The program was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life," he says. "I met some of the top social entrepreneurs, learned from expert faculty in the classroom, and worked with dynamic fellow participants. It was amazing."
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Hollemon, who works as a
campus tour guide and a
resident assistant, is also involved in several
student organizations. He's a member of Brothers for Change (B4C), the Black Cultural Society, the Cheer and Dance Teams, intramurals, and Relay for Life.
"They are all great organizations, but B4C is especially fulfilling," he says. "I have a passion for volunteer work, and B4C has allowed me to reach out to the community in many ways. Projects such as winterizing homes, Macon a Christmas and our annual Community Day help bring people together."
As for his post-R-MC plans, Hollemon is setting his sights on grad school and a master's degree in public relations. "I'm checking out grad-school programs now so that I can find the perfect fit," he says. "I'd love to get a job in advertising."