Pirouettes and Public Relations: Sophie Wirth’s Life in the Spotlight
By: Lily Sacco
Sophie Wirth is a public relations major at Michigan State University and a proud member of the MSU Dance Team. Whether she’s performing under stadium lights or giving a PR presentation, Wirth thrives in high-pressure environments, combining discipline with creativity.
“PR just made sense to me,” Wirth said. “I’ve always loved building connections and working on teams. And being part of the dance team has only strengthened that.”
Dance has taught her how to communicate without words, represent a brand with intention, and perform on and off the stage. She noticed overlaps between dance and PR — both require performance, audience awareness and message delivery.
“It’s about representing something bigger than yourself,” she said.
As she is a student-athlete, her days begin early. On game days, she’s up before sunrise to do hair and makeup, and prepare for hours of appearances — Spartan Statue photos, donor events and tunnel lineups before kickoff.
“I’ve been doing this kind of schedule since I was a kid,” Wirth said. “I like being busy.”
Wirth manages her responsibilities with poise: early-morning practices, Universal Dance Association Nationals prep and a full course load. She credits her ability to switch between “student mode” and “dancer mode” to years of discipline and consistency.
At donor events, she said she sees herself as a brand ambassador to MSU.
“We’re representing the school at every turn. That’s PR, even if we’re not calling it that,” she said.
She says the experience has prepared her for formal presentations and spontaneous speaking opportunities in class and beyond.
Wirth also credits the dance team with helping her build confidence.
“I’ve been in front of huge crowds for years. I’ve been professionally trained in interviews. That helps so much when I need to present or speak in PR classes,” said Wirth.
After graduation, she says she plans to pursue PR in the entertainment or sports industries, blending her love for media, athletics and storytelling.
“It’s been a challenging journey,” Wirth said. “But I’ve learned to be productive and give my team and studies my all. They’ve shaped the person I am today.”