Communications and leadership set Emma Liarikos up for a public service career

Emma Liarikos, a communications major with minors in political science and marketing, is driven by a passion for connection, public service and leadership. She’s a social media assistant in Salve Regina’s Office of Marketing and Communications, an intern at Audrain Hospitality and a Nuala Pell Leadership fellow, actively shaping her future to make a meaningful impact.

Her journey isn’t just about academics and internships – it’s also about the personal growth and sense of purpose she has cultivated at Salve Regina, where she has been able to explore her passions, build meaningful connections and develop the skills that will guide her future.

A path toward purpose

Liarikos wanted to attend a small college where she could form close relationships with her professors and feel like part of a tight-knit community. When it came time to choose, Liarikos knew Salve Regina was the right fit. The opportunities for academic growth and personal connection were unmatched, and she felt instantly at home.

“Salve offered a way to not only enhance my studies, but also make me really feel part of a community,” she said. “The feeling of being here is so unique to Salve, and other schools just can’t offer that.”

What set Salve Regina apart for Liarikos was her acceptance into the Pell Honors Program as a first-year student. The program, which offers advanced courses, early registration and unique housing options, quickly became a cornerstone of Liarikos’ academic experience.

As part of the program, Liarikos enrolled in special honors sections and seminars of courses offered at the University, challenging herself with fast-paced classes that pushed her intellectual boundaries. It was during her sophomore year that she honed in on her major. Initially, Liarikos had arrived at Salve Regina intending to pursue political science, inspired by her grandfather who was a state senator. But after taking a class with Dr. Donna Harrington-Lueker, professor in the Department of English, Communications and Media, she found her passion.

Specifically, Harrington-Lueker’s course Women and Popular Culture opened Liarikos’ eyes to how the media shapes and influences the public perception of women’s identities. “She has been so great and so encouraging,” Liarikos. “It was through her courses that I became interested in interpersonal communication and media.”

This newfound understanding sparked her interest in digital communication and paved the way for her career goals, inspiring her to dive deeper into marketing and public relations.

In addition to her Pell Honors studies, Liarikos is a member of Sigma Phi Sigma, the national mercy honor society.

Experience in the field

Alongside her studies, Liarikos took on a student employment position in the University’s Office of Marketing and Communications as a social media assistant. In that role, Liarikos helps create “day in the life” and street style videos, gaining experience in social media analytics and mastering tools like Canva. “Social media is such a powerful tool,” Liarikos said. “I have had so much fun learning these skills and it is great to see the campus community get engaged in the projects.”

While this position helped her build valuable skills, Liarikos’ most impactful work experience came this semester with an internship at Audrain Hospitality in Newport. Known for its boutique hotels, events and distinguished collection of classic cars, Audrain offered Liarikos an opportunity to explore the intersection of marketing, public relations and hospitality.

At Audrain, Liarikos has been involved in projects that span from compiling vendor lists for wedding shows to managing event calendars for Newport’s bustling tourism scene. Her internship experience also included working behind the scenes for Audrain’s high-profile Newport Concours and Motor Week. The internship not only allowed Liarikos to apply the skills she’s gained in her communications courses but also to see inspiring leadership firsthand.

“I really admire my boss,” she said. “She is such a go-getter, and even with so much on her plate, she still leads with grace. I hope to lead like that one day.”

Liarikos working at Audrain’s Motor Week 2024.

The Nuala Pell Leadership Program

In addition to her studies and work experiences, Liarikos’ leadership journey has been enriched by her recent acceptance into the Nuala Pell Leadership Program, which focuses on developing future leaders who are prepared to serve in the public sector. The program has provided Liarikos with an opportunity to learn more about leadership while connecting with peers and mentors who share her passion for public service.

Through monthly meetings, students engage with accomplished leaders in the public sector and explore leadership theory, ethics and the evolution of public issues. The fellowship year culminates with a visit to Washington, D.C., where the leadership fellows meet with public- and private-sector leaders.

“Working with people from diverse academic backgrounds has been incredibly rewarding,” Liarikos said. “It has allowed me to learn from my peers, whose perspectives I might not have encountered otherwise – and I think that will make me a better leader.”

Looking ahead

As she looks to the future, Liarikos plans to pursue graduate school in public administration and continue her work in the political sphere.

Reflecting on her four years on campus, Liarikos offered advice to students who are beginning their academic journey. “Salve has so much to offer, and you can really make your experience your own,” she said. “There are so many ways to get involved – whether it’s joining a club, taking on a work-study position or just being open to new opportunities. You never know where it might take you. I didn’t expect to be where I am today, but it is all of the experiences I said ‘yes’ to that got me here.”

For Liarikos, Salve Regina has been more than just a place to study – it’s been a launchpad for a future of leadership, service and making a positive impact in the world. “Salve has a great curriculum where you can study different topics and fields, which leaves you with lots of unique and well-rounded experiences for when you graduate,” she said.