Maya Lincoln, a graduating senior from URI, has made the most of her time at the university, building lifelong friendships and discovering her passion for communication. Majoring in public relations and professional and public writing, she’s developed a strong foundation in both people skills and writing. She is looking forward to seeing what her future holds!

What made you choose URI?
I chose URI because my mom always told me that no matter what college I chose I would find a close group of friends and do everything with them and it didn’t matter which one had the best dining hall or sports teams. When I came to tour here I instantly felt calm and safe, so I figured there was no better place than here! I’m so thankful, because I would have never had the opportunities I’ve had here going to another school.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose my public relations major because I knew I wanted to work with people. I love talking and communicating.I’ve learned more about people and business than I could have ever thought possible, and feel prepared as I’m entering this field. I added my professional and public writing major when I was a sophomore because I went to interview for an internship and she told me that my writing skills were not up to par. She recommended that I add the major, which at the time hurt but now I couldn’t be more thankful. This program has made me a stronger writer than I thought was possible for me and has given me the confidence to use these skills in my professional journey.

What has been one of your favorite memories from URI?
One of my favorite memories at URI has to be checking out Jenny Slate’s comedy show with some of my friends my sophomore year. We got there an hour early, because we thought there would be a line, and got front row center stage seats. I remember laughing all night with them and getting to be close to performers I never thought I would have the opportunity to.

What is the best thing you have learned while being at URI?
I would say that one of the best things I’ve learned while being at URI is that learning never stops. I am so inspired by my professors and mentors that have kept up their education for the duration of their careers. I really want to make learning a priority for the rest of my life and become just as educated and well rounded as they are.

What are your post graduation plans?
Two days after I graduate I will be hopping in a car with one of my great friends that I made here at URI and we will be traveling across the country. We have just under four weeks of traveling planned to Montana and back. Beyond that, I’m hoping to land a position at a PR firm that focuses on technology. It has always been a passion of mine to help bridge the gap between technological advancement and the public.