By: Sloan Salinas, intern

During the second semester of my freshman year of college, I decided to try my hand at writing for the entertainment section of the Georgia Tech student-run newspaper, The Technique.

You might wonder why an engineering major might take such a leap. I desperately missed writing things that weren’t lab reports, so when someone offered me the chance to write about the music and media that I liked, I jumped at the opportunity — which then resulted in my (shocking) change in major later on.

I proceeded to spend the next three and a half years as a contributor, then the official staff writer, before eventually becoming the assistant entertainment editor for The Technique. During that time, I was fortunate to have opportunities that I couldn’t have imagined — opportunities that taught me lessons that not only helped me throughout college but have carried over into my life after graduation.

Some of those lessons are:

You don’t have to prove anything to anyone else

As a young reporter, I had no shortage of “should I really be here?” moments. There were times when I was the only student journalist at an event or the only female photographer in the pit. Then there were times when I was the youngest and the only woman in the room.

At the beginning, I couldn’t help but feel like I had to prove that I belonged there alongside reporters who were much more seasoned. But as I gained experience and started to feel more comfortable in a variety of industry settings (and learned how to look like it, even when I didn’t), I also learned how to accept that it didn’t matter if I was a minority in the room because I got into the room just the same as everyone else.

Realizing that I didn’t have to prove my capability to anyone, and that I should be able to feel confident in my abilities, was something that didn’t just impact me internally; it was also visible in the way I carried myself and interacted with people at events and interviews.

Preparedness is crucial, but so is a level head

As a photographer, preparedness meant making sure both camera battery packs were charged the night before a show and that the SD cards had space on them. It also meant looking up the venue beforehand to make sure I knew where to park and where to meet my contact.

Similarly, as an interviewer, preparedness meant researching whoever I was going to be talking with and reading their past interviews to make sure I wasn’t wasting any time on previously answered questions. It also meant deciding which of my planned questions were most important in case my time was cut short.

At the same time, it’s important not to get so obsessive about planning that preparedness turns into anxiety. Learning to balance the two is a skill that doesn’t just apply to the journalism world but the world in general, whether regarding a job or a phone call with a friend.

Expect last-minute changes

While being prepared is a must, being able to pivot is also essential. Adaptability at a moment’s notice was something I learned primarily from interviewing high-profile subjects. When working with musicians, performers, actors and directors, you learn quickly that their schedule — and yours, by default — can change on a dime.

The details of the first interview I ever conducted, the lead singer of a band while on tour in Atlanta, weren’t confirmed until I was standing in the line for the show. Then, those details were changed later — just minutes before the band went onstage.

From a venue’s box office losing a photo pass, to an actor’s schedule suddenly changing, to a band’s crappy cell service interfering with an over-the-phone interview, or a PR agency sending a new address less than an hour before an event, I had my fair share of experiences where adaptability and flexibility were absolutely necessary — but that’s show biz for you!

As someone who doesn’t like last-minute changes, this part of the job was never particularly enjoyable, but having no choice but to accept and roll with such changes, while still retaining professional composure, turned out to be a most valuable skill.

Don’t be afraid to ask for things you want

Entertainment journalism is not a career for the timid — being bold is often a requirement in order to advance. When covering concerts, there were times where we’d get an invitation from the artist, but other times, the onus was on me to ask my editor to put in a request for media credentials for the shows that I wanted to cover. While I started small, eventually I started requesting bigger artists in larger venues. I told myself that the worst they could say was, “No” (which happened a fair number of times), but nothing truly “bad” would happen if they did.

At the beginning of my college career, I had never even considered writing for a newspaper as something I would do. Now, I can look back and say that my life would not be the same if not for it.

Although fashion trends may have brought us back to the 2000s, it’s not 2005 anymore and your YouTube channel shouldn’t look like it either. Gone are the days of 10-minute upload limits and video titles that are just file names.

Today, YouTube is the second most visited website in the world and nearly every media outlet, business and brand runs a YouTube channel. This means every video uploaded is competing with the big leagues now.

The good news is you can make some simple upgrades to make your YouTube channel look more polished, professional and like you know what you’re doing. (And if you need help, you know where to find us!)

Easy Ways to Make Your YouTube Channel Look Professional

1. Search Optimize Everything – Believe it or not, YouTube is one of the largest global search engines, so make sure you’re including related search terms everywhere possible. That means including relevant keywords in the channel description box. This goes double for your video uploads. The title is ideally descriptive, keyword-rich and enticing. The video description should be as well. Think about what your audience might type into the search bar and make sure your written content answers it.

2. Don’t Neglect Your Banner Image – It can be tricky to get it just right, but uploading an on-brand, designed banner image that works across all devices makes a YouTube channel look professional. It’s often the first visual impression visitors get.

3. Take Advantage of Playlists – Group your videos into playlists so people can easily find related videos and video series — and keep watching your content longer. You can even curate a custom playlist of videos from other YouTube channels to display on your channel. Add sections to your channel’s home page to display these playlists and your most popular content. That also makes your channel easier to navigate.

4. Create and Display a Channel Trailer – This is a video shown to non-subscribers who land on your channel’s home page. Ideally this gives a visitor an overview of what your content is about, explains your company or previews your most popular content. Think of it as your channel’s elevator pitch.

5. Use Custom Thumbnails – Don’t let YouTube choose a random frame for your video’s display image. Custom thumbnails with bold text, clear imagery and consistent branding improve click rates.

6. Embrace Vertical Video – The age of vertical video is still among us and YouTube is no exception. Recycle your Instagram Reels and TikTok videos on YouTube or edit your existing YouTube videos into vertical ones. This will make your channel look current and the short form content is a great way to get discovered by new viewers.

7. Add End Screens – You know the screen at the end of a YouTube video with links to view other related videos? Adding that to your videos instantly makes you look more legit, plus it drives views to your other videos. Win-win.

8. Don’t Forget Subtitles – YouTube will often automatically add subtitles to your video (eventually) but there are things it can get wrong. Review the generated subtitles for spelling, punctuation and name errors or upload your own captions. If you have a script on hand, you can even use YouTube’s auto-sync feature to add perfectly timed subtitles. Subtitles also make your content more accessible while also allowing viewers to watch without sound.

YouTube remains the most important video platform on the internet, but like any other social network, the site is always evolving — and staying current (and looking good doing so) can take time. If your channel could use a refresh (or if you’re thinking about launching one), we’re happy to help. 

I read many mom stories on social media about women quitting their job before the 3-month mark because they couldn’t stomach the thought of leaving their baby (LOL not me!) and I almost felt guilty in a sense because I didn’t feel the same way. Of course, I didn’t want to leave her, but my reticence was mostly because I was now used to a more leisurely routine. Alongside the fear was curiosity — and even eagerness. I couldn’t wait to step back into my career and discover what this new version of my life would look like. A corporate baddie boss mom. Mamacita (Love Islanders, you know). That title was meant for me!

Before becoming a mom, I thought I understood balance. I traveled for leisure, managed responsibilities and even balanced life as a proud dog mom. But motherhood (with a real person) changes the equation. Now it’s travel, babysitters, deadlines, diapers, feeding schedules, maintaining a clean home, nurturing a relationship and still showing up fully in every room I enter. It is a lot, but so exciting!

This Women’s History Month, I’ve been reflecting on what it truly means when we say women can “do it all.” It doesn’t mean we do everything perfectly or that we never feel tired or overwhelmed. It means we rise to the occasion. We adapt. We evolve. We stretch beyond what we thought were our limits and most times shock ourselves.

History is filled with women who broke barriers in boardrooms, laboratories, classrooms and communities. But there’s also power in everyday history being written right now — in living rooms, at daycare drop-offs, at late-night networking events and in early morning meetings.

Returning to work as a new mom has shown me something profound: I am capable of more than I ever imagined. Motherhood didn’t diminish my ambition — it sharpened it. It didn’t weaken my drive — it deepened it. I move differently now, with greater purpose and perspective.

I’m also incredibly grateful to work for a company that truly supports its people through every phase of life. A four-day work week and flexible work-from-home options have made this transition gentler, allowing me to show up fully — both at work and at home — with a little more peace of mind. That kind of support makes a real difference, and I am grateful for communications 21.

As Michelle Obama writes in Becoming, “For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self.” Right now, I’m embracing that forward motion — evolving as a leader, a mother and the woman I’m still becoming.

Women can do it all. Not because it’s easy — but because we are resilient, resourceful and relentless when we set our minds to something. This season of life is stretching me. It’s teaching me. It’s empowering me in ways I didn’t expect. And yes, I am tired. But I also know this season won’t last forever.

What I do know is that I have never felt stronger or more determined to show my daughter what it looks like to build a career, chase big goals and still show up fully as a mom. To show her what a hardworking, ambitious, unapologetic woman looks like. Her grandma did it. And I’m proud to continue that legacy.

Does Event Marketing Work?

At communications 21, we’ve seen firsthand how thinking outside the box transforms ordinary events into unforgettable experiences. Creative events don’t just entertain, they build relationships, start conversations and generate the kind of organic buzz that marketers dream of.

In fact:

• 77% of marketers say events are the most effective marketing channel for their organizations.

• Marketers also ranked in-person events (52%) and webinars (51%) as the most effective distribution channels.
• Those who implemented event marketing strategies were 75% more likely than those who didn’t to see a growth rate over 50% in 2023.
• What’s more, 93% of marketers using event marketing said they are meeting their companies’ revenue and/or pipeline goals, compared to 76% of those who do not host events.

Well-done events are shared stories, and in the marketing world that’s like getting a golden ticket. Attendees post photos and (hopefully!) tag your business or use pre-planned event hashtags on social media, and share those stories with new people and connect with colleagues. Guests create memories and those memories help shape future events and connections.

Make It Memorable: Event Ideas That Stand Out

Some events follow standard requirements – a location that comfortably accommodates everyone, food and beverages, speakers sharing important information and time for networking. If the client and the budget allow, using your creative ideas to design a more unique and memorable event is the best way to have a truly lasting impact.

Here are a few examples of how c21 has gone well beyond the basics to create events for our clients that leave people talking long after they’ve concluded:

• Metro South Community Improvement District’s Truck “Road-eo” - A Different Approach to Road Design

The Metro South Community Improvement District (MSCID) hosted a Truck Road-eo that featured community engagement and transportation planning in a fun and interactive way. This event, which was part of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s ongoing work with Kimley-Horn for the Thurman/Cedar Grove/Old McDonough Roundabout Feasibility Study, invited the public to witness and even participate in an innovative approach to road design.

Using a full-scale, temporary layout of the proposed roundabout recreated in a giant parking lot, the event enabled 18-wheelers, fire truck operators, commercial towing and other large-vehicle operators to test the design in real-time. With lunch served beforehand and community members cheering on the participants, the Truck Road-eo turned transportation planning into an engaging, educational and uniquely collaborative experience that had real outcomes for the engineers planning the roundabout design.

• Cumberland CID’s The New Day Palisades Phase One Ribbon-Cutting and Community Day

This one-of-a-kind celebration perfectly blended community spirit, outdoor adventure and appreciation for the Chattahoochee River’s natural beauty. Hosted by the Cumberland CID and One Cumberland, the event invited attendees to witness the official ribbon-cutting to re-open the park and explore the revitalized Paces Mill Palisades area through the One Cumberland Trail Challenge - a scenic one-mile nature walk enhanced with a scavenger hunt along the way.

Guests, including their families, also enjoyed interactive games such as Giant Jenga and Connect 4, a putting green, skeeball, checkers and cornhole. They explored exhibits and educational booths designed to inspire outdoor adventures and environmental stewardship. With its mix of learning, exploration and celebration, the event offered a truly unique way for the community to connect with nature and one another while commemorating a significant milestone.

• Greater Women’s Business Council’s Open House and Invest Atlanta WEI Graduation Event

The Greater Women’s Business Council (GWBC^®) joined forces with Invest Atlanta and its Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) for a truly inspiring event celebrating the launch of The WBE Collaborative, GWBC^®’s new coworking space in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. Held at the Bank of America Plaza, the event featured an open house for the coworking space, followed by WEI’s cohort graduation ceremony.

What made this event especially distinctive was the inclusion of a Small Business Fair, where women-owned enterprises hosted booths showcasing their products and services. The fair provided exposure and networking opportunities, allowing these women entrepreneurs to connect with potential clients, partners and community leaders they might not have otherwise reached. It was an inspiring celebration on the 55^th floor of one of Atlanta’s skyscrapers and embodied collaboration, innovation and the growing power of women-owned businesses.

• Marsy’s Law for Georgia and the Local Community Paint a Mural of Hope in Cobb County

In a powerful display of creativity and collaboration, Marsy’s Law for Georgia joined forces with the Cobb County Family Justice Center and nonprofits Paint Love for a community mural event designed to bring healing and hope to those impacted by trauma and violence.

Survivors, volunteers, staff, community partners and artists came together to paint a stunning 14-foot-tall hummingbird mural at the Cobb Family Justice Center in Marietta, Georgia. The hummingbird, a universal symbol of resilience and renewal, now brightens the halls of the Center, a place where survivors of domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault find safety, legal support and assistance. This vibrant piece not only beautified the space but also serves as a lasting reminder that healing can begin through community, creativity and compassion.

Events that include art are always a big hit, but if you can also allow the community to participate and become a part of the art piece, that will be a memory they will never forget.

• Gateway85 CID’s Launch Pad Tech Collaboration Event Showcases Robotics and Innovation

Gateway85 CID’s Launch Pad Tech Collaboration Event, held in March 2025, brought together leading voices in Georgia’s technology and innovation sectors for a one-of-a-kind experience that merged cutting-edge robotics, drone technology and public safety innovation.

The event featured live demonstrations and discussions about the use of robotics and drones, showcasing how metro Atlanta is driving advancements in automation, artificial intelligence and defense-related technology. Industry experts from Georgia Tech, Flock Safety, Peachtree Corners Curiosity Lab and Partnership Gwinnett explored how robotics and intelligent systems are reshaping industries from public safety to agriculture. There were several futuristic robots that could respond to commands and even shake the hands of attendees.

These kinds of unexpected twists bring energy and personality to events that could otherwise feel typical and repetitive. Unique events encourage participation and create lasting memories while helping your company connect with the people who matter the most to them.

Add a Unique Aspect to Your Next Business Event

If the entire event isn’t centered around a memorable twist, think about adding one or more of these smaller options:

• Tours add a great deal of interest to an event and draw a crowd that might not have been interested otherwise. Recently, the c21 team attended an event called the Centennial Conversation with Delta and Atlanta, hosted at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta. This event included a panel discussion with the CEO of Delta Air Lines and the GM for Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Before and after the panel discussion, attendees were free to tour  the museum, which features a full-size jet in the middle of the building and several other aircraft throughout.
• What about including a VR or AR experience? c21 held a Marsy’s Law for Georgia board meeting that featured Exploring Digital, a technology company, which provided a demo of a virtual reality training program for Georgia police officers.
• At a recent Greater Women’s Business Council (GWBC) event, the keynote speaker provided two raffled prizes that offered women entrepreneurs the ability to train, learn and consult with her company – at a value of $16,000. A simple raffle can bring in more guests than expected and provide a memorable win!
• Instead of hosting an event that features food and drinks, consider creating a wine, whiskey, or beer event with educational aspects, allowing attendees to learn about the creation of these beverages while enjoying the taste and networking with one another. Wednesday Wine Downs are another GWBC event created this year to bring people to their coworking space, teach them about wine and connect with other women business owners.
• Give your evening a theme, such as Casino Night! A few years ago, PTCREW hosted a casino night at the North Carolina A&T Alumni-Foundation Event Center, where attendees played blackjack, roulette and other casino games.
• We’ve seen events where you can create something to take home, such as a custom T-shirt, a tea blend, candles or a bookmark. Let your attendees embrace their creativity with DIY stations and they will never forget your event!
• You’ve probably seen videos of weddings where an artist paints a scene from the wedding live, during the ceremony and reception. People can watch them paint and see the fantastic result. These artists aren’t only available for weddings, so consider a Live Art Installation for your next event.

Investing in a creative event is the difference between a one-time interaction and a lasting impression. As you plan your next meeting, conference or awards show, think beyond the standard format. Ask yourself: what would surprise and delight my audience? How can I reflect my brand in a way that is both interactive and memorable? Because while SEO may help your audience find you, providing a creative event helps people remember you.

If you’re ready to dive into brainstorming or planning for your next memorable and creative event, contact c21!

Once I’m in the office, I do my Monday morning routine: I catch up on emails, read articles and get ready for our team meeting. The c21 team meets every Monday morning. We start by talking about our weekends — a fun way to get to know each other more and ease into the week — then we dive into updating the team on our clients, followed by everyone sharing their schedules for the week ahead.

After the team meeting, I take some time to work on client social media posts. Some days I feel like I live in Canva — and trust me, I wish I could. The rent would be cheaper than anything in Atlanta. Anyway, graphic design is one of my favorite things about my job at c21. I love getting to design social media content, email banners, magazine ads, website headers, etc. — the list goes on. There are always opportunities to create and expand my knowledge of graphic design.

Once I get off Zoom, I write a recap of our meeting and share it with our client just to make sure that we’re on the same page and are aware of what tasks and deadlines are coming up. After sending the recap with the blog calendar and blog draft, I go back to working on socials. After I draft the copy and graphics for socials, I put the drafts into our scheduling platform and send a link to my team for them to review.

As my day comes to a close, I log all my time, exit my many tabs, say goodbye to the team and get ready for another productive day ahead.