Advertising Management, Allysen Davenport, found her Confidence in California Immersion Class Trip
By: Sophia Jundy
When advertising management senior, Allysen Davenport boarded a flight from Michigan to California, she was stepping far outside her comfort zone. What she found on the West Coast was a new sense of confidence and a clearer idea of what her future could look like.
“You learn so much by stepping into new environments,” Davenport said. “It’s all about perspective. Knowing what you like and where you want to grow is the first step toward success.”
As part of Michigan State University’s ADV 402 California Field Experience, Davenport and her classmates visited top Los Angeles advertising, public relations and entertainment agencies, including Allied Global Marketing, Mocean, Variety, Deutsch, FanDuel and more. Each visit showcased a unique side of the industry.
She gained a stronger understanding about agency life and career possibilities.
“I’m set on working at an agency after graduation. I love the energy and environment of agencies. I want to absorb as much as I can,” said Davenport.
The variety of agencies they visited also showed Davenport how different work cultures, creative processes and client types can shape an organization.
From sleek post-production studios to entertainment marketing teams, the contrast helped her imagine the kinds of environments where she could see herself thriving.
“Allied Global Marketing really stood out to me,” Davenport said. “The presenter worked in gaming, which was fascinating because we don’t often hear about that side of marketing communications.”
Being an avid video game fan, Davenport says she felt a special connection with the agencies that highlighted this version of marketing.
“Mocean works with Riot Games, which was so cool,” she said. “I got to meet someone who works on League of Legends, Arcane and Valorant. That was a highlight for me.”
Beyond the tours, the trip reshaped how Davenport viewed herself as a young professional.
“Taking that leap of faith and going across the country gave me so much confidence,” Davenport said. “I feel fearless now.”
And no class trip would be complete without students forming inseparable bonds. Davenport says her cohort became fast friends as they navigated agency visits, commutes and out-of-class hours exploring together.
“Having that sense of friendship with people that you just met, I think, was awesome. We were all connected in a way,” said Davenport.
Outside the office visits, Davenport took time to explore Los Angeles; from the beaches of Santa Monica to the streets of Beverly Hills.
“Getting out there and experiencing a completely different culture was so valuable,” she said. “It helped me grow personally and professionally.”
Discover more about MSU’s Advertising + Public Relations program and opportunities like the ADV 402 California Field Experience here.
