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Spotlight on Simmons

Course Credits for Creativity

One of the most dynamic and exciting examples of Simmons's on-campus independent study programs is Studio 5, an innovative, student-run communications "agency" that serves Boston-area nonprofits. Housed in the Communications Department, Studio 5 combines classroom learning with real work experience.

Studio 5 is a place where books are pushed aside, and the classroom becomes a well-oiled public relations/marketing communications agency.  Staring intently at computer screens, huddled over design work, and busily discussing photography, graphics, and brochure copy, a maximum of 12 students take part in the course.  And they get things accomplished, not just for themselves, but for actual clients within and outside of Simmons.

Every semester, a new team of senior-level students skilled in graphic design, marketing, mixed media, interactive media development, copywriting, and public relations works in the studio. Each team member works on one or two projects, across many media and functions including print, the Web, video, event planning, fundraising, and marketing. In support of Simmons's service learning initiative, Studio 5 accepts projects from nonprofit organizations only. Clients are charged a nominal fee for creative services; instead, students receive course credit for their work.

With guidance from Studio 5 managers — professors who are experts in the communications field — students establish contracts, research markets, and create communications plans. Team members analyze the client's communications needs, brainstorm creative concepts, identify an appropriate strategy, submit a formal proposal, and then get to work. Although Studio 5 meets formally once a week during the semester, project leaders maintain regular client communications through e-mail, phone, fax, and client site visits.

Participants in Studio 5 have produced a wide range of creative projects, including public service announcements about HIV and AIDS, and promotional pieces for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.  On campus, Studio 5 students have designed layouts for the Simmons Review magazine, admissions office publications, and most recently, the book jacket design for the Communication-Department's book, Women to Women: Young Americans in South Africa.

"Studio 5 prepared us for our role as experts," said Suzanne Mullarkey '04, a communications major. "The experience we gained sets us far above the competition."

For more information on Studio 5, please contact Commuications Professor Sarah Burrows at sarah.burrows@simmons.edu or 617-521-2841.