From FRIB to TEDx: International PR Student, Aahan Gohil, Takes Culture Shock in Stride
By: Nolan Kirkwood
Having lived in several different countries growing up, MSU PR student, Aahan Gohil, has experienced vast geography and culture. After moving to Michigan, he says he was shocked by how large the US and MSU really is. That hasn’t stopped him from diving into campus life and internships.
Gohil says that while being surrounded by a new culture can be confusing, it’s also very informative. He says that his high school experience abroad emulated college well with advanced placement courses and heavy emphasis on exams.
In addition to being a full-time international student, Gohil also works at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at MSU as a communications assistant. Here he does things like web auditing, editing videos and designing posters. He says balancing his studies with his role at the FRIB has equipped him with the skills to manage both commitments while upholding a standard of excellence in his work.
In summer 2023, Gohil also interned abroad in Hong Kong for AIA Group, the largest life insurer company in Asia. In his role at AIA Group, Gohil’s responsibilities involved group and digital marketing, which included creating marketing material, such as videos and articles. Additionally, he specialized in editing the company’s submissions for awards.
Gohil’s campus involvement doesn’t stop with PR field experience. He currently serves as talent coordinator and on the speakers team with TEDxMSU, a program with the goal of spreading ideas and knowledge through guest speakers.
“We recruit and introduce speakers to the environment of TEDx, draft up their talks and make sure it fits the audience,” said Gohil.
Gohil says that coordinating the speakers for this team can be complicated. He says he’s learned through his experience with speakers, how challenging it can be to align schedules and ensure their talks stay on track, especially under added pressure.
Drawing from these practices, Gohil says he’s always looking for ways to build his resume and public relations skills – taking advantage of new opportunities to make life that much more interesting.
“Every semester I’ve been here, there’s something new that goes on,” said Gohil. “It’s never mundane.”