Students in Chris Barry’s Communication Arts Academy at Glen Cove High School recently welcomed an old friend back to impart some professional wisdom to students enrolled in the program.

Samantha Renison, a Glen Cove TV graduate and member of the Glen Cove High School Class of 2004, who is now a media buyer for the Wieden+Kennedy advertising agency in New York City, shared some of her insight with students. Samantha spoke about the college and career paths she took to get to where she is today.

“I wanted to be the next Katie Couric. I really love the communication field and love every aspect of it,” said Samantha, who translated her desire to be a broadcaster into more behind the scenes success in the media market. “Mr. Barry taught me to meet my deadlines, work hard and that if I put forth the effort, the results will follow.”

Samantha discussed the responsibilities and skills required for success in her current position–from the basic skills such as reading, writing, and math–to the more advanced, including negotiating and the ability to work collaboratively with others. She also shared how the Glen Cove High School Communication Arts class inspired her to work hard and fulfill her dreams.

Wieden+Kennedy is a full service agency that includes clients such as Nike, Delta, Heineken, and ABC Entertainment and ABC Family, the latter two for which Samantha is assigned.

Information supplied by the Glen Cove school district.