Claire Cunningham, a communication studies major with a minor in environmental studies from Keller, Texas, will soon be walking the stage at Texas Tech University, not just as a graduate, but as a Banner Bearer, one of the highest honors bestowed by the College of Media & Communication.
The Banner Bearer title is a special honor given to top graduating students who have done well in school, shown leadership, and been active in their college community. These students carry the college’s banner at graduation, representing what their program stands for. Claire was selected for this recognition due to her exceptional academic achievements and the meaningful impact she made throughout her time at Texas Tech.
Ironically, Claire didn’t start college thinking communications would be her path. “In all honesty I picked communications as a ‘place holder’ until I decided on a more permanent major. However, after my first semester I realized how much I loved it!” She shared. “I loved the versatility and opportunities that came with being in communications”
Her inspiration for choosing her major came from her love of classic rom-coms. “I
am a big romcom girl, and all the early 2000’s ‘it girls’ worked for some kind of
communications, marketing, or public relations firm (think Andie Anderson, from How
to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Jenna Rink from 13 Going on 30, and Sophie from Letters
to Juliet),” she said. “I love the sentiment of keeping the art of writing alive and
have always been very expressive with my words.”
One of her most vivid memories as a student came during her very first semester. “I remember my first day freshman year walking into the Humanities building. The architecture and buzz of the college campus was so beautiful and exciting. I savored my walk to class every day that first semester and missed it when I no longer had classes there.”
Academically, one class stood out most. “COMS-3310 (Rhetoric in Western Thought with
Dr. Gring) was definitely the most memorable class of my college career,” Claire said.
“While this was my hardest class, it was the most rewarding because I left feeling
genuinely challenged. Many sleepless nights working on essays led to a feeling of
genuine accomplishment when I walked out of that class for the last time.”
“My time at CoMC has helped me tremendously with my ability to articulate my beliefs and opinions,” she added. “Because of the hands-on experience I gained through my degree, I feel more confident navigating disagreements in the workplace and my personal life. Additionally, I gained an enjoyment for speaking in groups and taking on roles in leadership.” She shared that in five years, she hopes to be using those skills in a role that aligns with her passions and purpose.
“Texas Tech will always hold a special place in my heart,” Claire said. “I got engaged,
married, and moved three times during these years. It was a time of big transitions,
but it marks the end of a very special chapter of life and growth.”