When Daniela Fortuna ’25 chose to double major in communication and digital media and journalism, she knew she wanted a career in a large corporate environment—but she wasn’t sure exactly what role she would pursue. What drew her in was the versatility of the field and the wide range of opportunities it could open across industries.
“At first, I wasn’t entirely sure which path I wanted to take,” she says. “But my major helped me explore different directions and discover where I fit best.”
With guidance from her advisor, Associate Professor Adam Chiara, Fortuna expanded her academic experience beyond her core studies, even taking courses through the Barney School of Business. That flexibility allowed her to build a well-rounded skill set and better understand how communication functions within a corporate setting. Fortuna also credits Chiara for helping her stay focused and achieve her goals—especially her ambition to graduate early.
“From my freshman year, he recognized my strengths and helped me map out a plan,” she said. “With his support, I was able to take on a second major and still graduate ahead of schedule.”
After graduating in December 2025, Fortuna received an immediate job offer from The Travelers Companies in Hartford, Connecticut—launching her career right where she had envisioned it.
Fortuna credits much of her personal and professional growth to her involvement outside the classroom—especially as a member of the Delta Gamma sorority. “When I joined, I was shy and struggled with social anxiety,” she says. “By the time I graduated, I had become a much more confident and capable version of myself.”
Through Delta Gamma, she gained hands-on experience organizing events, fundraising for philanthropy, and giving back to the community. One of her most impactful experiences was traveling to Boston to participate in a Federation of the Blind walk—an opportunity that pushed her beyond her comfort zone and helped her embrace new challenges. “These experiences taught me how to adapt, lead, and step outside of my comfort zone,” she says. “They helped me walk into my first day of work feeling confident.”
At UHart, Fortuna found that learning extended far beyond lectures. She gained real-world experience through the student-run Crested Communications agency, where she applied classroom concepts in a professional setting. She also highlights the hands-on nature of her courses as one of the most valuable aspects of her education. “Professors don’t just teach—they engage with you,” she says. “They genuinely care about your success and make sure you have the tools you need.” A key part of her preparation came from a dedicated career development course with Associate Professor Susan Cardillo. Through mock interviews, résumé-building workshops, professional headshots, and visits to UHart’s Allan Center for Career and Professional Development, Fortuna developed the skills and confidence needed to transition seamlessly into the workforce.
Today, Fortuna is putting her education into practice and continuing to grow in a professional environment that matches her original aspirations.
Daniela Fortuna ’25, College of Arts and ScienceAt first, I wasn’t entirely sure which path I wanted to take, but my major helped me explore different directions and discover where I fit best. These experiences taught me how to adapt, lead, and step outside of my comfort zone. They helped me walk into my first day of work feeling confident.