Storbakken awarded Media Fellows Scholarship

South Dakota State University junior Taylor Storbakken has been awarded a 2023 Media Fellows Scholarship from the Washington Media Scholars Foundation.

The advertising major with minors in public relations, marketing, and digital and social media plans to graduate from SDSU in December 2024. She grew up near Veblen and attended Britton-Hecla School District.

The one-time award is for $1,500.

SDSU advertising instructor Heather Solberg with SDSU’s School of Communication and Journalism said the scholarship is awarded to outstanding students pursuing careers in media-related fields who have an interest in advertising and public policy. Storbakken applied by submitting a personal essay explaining her career goals, involvement and financial need, a letter of recommendation and her resumé. An interview followed.

“This scholarship not only provides financial support but unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience, mentorship and access to industry professionals. With a focus on academic merit, leadership potential and passion for media, recipients were selected from a record number of applicants from colleges and universities across the country,” the foundation reported in announcing the scholarship winners.

Seventy Media Fellows Scholarships were awarded this year to students across the country.

Solberg said Storbakken is a great student academically and is involved in SDSU student organizations such as Advertising Club and participates in American Advertising Federation lunches and student day to network and get an inside look at the profession.

“She’s a very applied student who participates in any opportunity that’s presented and always steps forward for leadership positions,” Solberg said. “She’s very deserving of the award.”

Storbakken is also involved in the Public Relations Student Society of America and works as a student engagement officer and supervisor at the SDSU Foundation, where she engages with SDSU supporters through video, phone, social media and more, among other activities.

“I was honored when I heard that I had received this national scholarship,” Storbakken said. “The support from this award allows me to focus on my studies as well as stay involved on campus and in the community, and to that I am very grateful.”

She says her future career may include working for a small company or organization, completing marketing and communication tasks. Her interests include video, social media and anything to do with strategy.