Managing the social media accounts of the Office of the Connecticut Secretary of the State has been a game-changer for DiLemme, who is gaining real-world experience as a public relations student.

As part of her role, she is responsible for creating engaging digital content that promotes voter registration, civics education and the importance of local and state government. The range of work has strengthened her understanding of strategic communications in social change and political advocacy.

“This experience has not only improved my communication skills but also solidified my dedication to using strategic messaging as a tool for social impact and democratic engagement,” said DiLemme. “Changing the world sounds like a big task — and it is — but change starts with just one person. If I can use my skills to educate others about political issues, that will change their worldview and maybe even lead them to get involved.”

DiLemme credits her classroom environment with providing her with the necessary tools to tackle real-world communication challenges. 

“A huge selling point for me when choosing Quinnipiac was the emphasis on its hands-on learning experience,” she said. 

The spaces and professors in the School of Communications support the development of her practical skills and enhance her confidence in applying them outside the classroom.

Beyond the classroom, DiLemme is deeply involved in campus life. 

She serves as a Quinnipiac digital assistant, where she creates social media campaigns for the Division of Alumni Affairs and Development’s annual giving department and other Quinnipiac program initiatives.

She is a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority Theta Theta Chapter and holds the role of recruitment analyst. She is also an admissions student ambassador, guiding prospective students around the campuses. 

DiLemme participates in various other clubs, all while balancing her academic and internship workload.

DiLemme’s passion for public relations sparked in the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority Theta Theta Chapter, managing social media and developing campaigns as the director of public relations. 

DiLemme quickly fell in love with her duties, adding public relations as her second major in her second year.

“Serving as the director of public relations taught me how to craft strategic messaging, manage social media campaigns, and maintain a cohesive brand identity — all while effectively communicating with the Quinnipiac community and potential new members looking to find their home away from home with Alpha Delta Pi,” said DiLemme. “It gave me newfound confidence in myself that I am capable of working in this field, and it has inspired me to pursue a career that I love.”

As DiLemme approaches graduation in May, she plans to continue her education at Quinnipiac in the public relations master’s program. 

“I am so excited to dive deeper into the public relations field that I love so dearly,” she said. 

In addition, DiLemme hopes to work as a communications specialist for advocacy groups, such as March For Our Lives. She aims to use her skills in public relations and digital media to drive positive change and social justice.

Reflecting on her time at Quinnipiac, DiLemme is in awe of how much she’s grown. 

“The girl I was when coming to Quinnipiac in 2022 is unrecognizable to me now,” she said. 

Her journey has been a transformative one. From a shy and insecure first year to a confident, outgoing, and involved student.