Finding Her Orbit: How Former Astrophysics Major, Jessica Grover, Discovered Her Place in Public Relations
By Sasha Lieberman
Michigan State University junior, Jessica Grover, once looked to the stars for her future. Entering college as an astrophysics major, she was inspired by her high school physics teacher’s passion for space. Although she loved learning about space and astronomy, Grover quickly realized the subject was much more complex than she expected, and the career field was narrow and niche.
“I loved space and learning about it, but I wasn’t great at science,” Grover said. “It was fascinating, just not something I could see myself doing forever.”
After leaving the astrophysics major, she explored other paths, but nothing seemed to fit. Her turning point came while working at a restaurant, where a coworker who had graduated from MSU’s new public relations program introduced her to the field. Listening to her describe managing social media and community outreach sparked something in Grover.
Before officially changing her major, Grover enrolled in PR 260: Principles of Public Relations and PR 225: Writing for Public Relations. It was in PR 225 with professor of practice, Lolo Robison, that she realized she had found her place. Robison’s enthusiasm and professional background inspired Grover to pursue public relations as her major.
“Lolo was such a positive force,” Grover said. “She made me realize that PR is about connection, storytelling and confidence, all things I was interested in.”
As a PR major, Grover has built a strong foundation through both campus involvement and professional experience. She serves as Kappa Delta’s vice president of learning and development, a leadership role that has helped her gain confidence speaking in front of large groups and managing chapter communications.
In summer 2025, Grover completed her first public relations internship at Corewell Health (link). She worked on the internal communications team, writing internal newsletters and drafting articles. The hands-on role allowed her to apply what she learned in class and experience public relations up close.
“Writing for Corewell taught me how to make something simple sound engaging,” Grover said. “It was rewarding to see how communication can connect employees across such a big organization.”
Grover says she now feels “locked in” with her path and encourages students who are uncertain about their majors to explore different options until they find their passion.
“It’s not a race to graduate,” Grover said. “If you’re curious about something new, take the risk. Talk to people, take a class and don’t be afraid to switch.”
Grover says she aims to keep building her experience in health care or corporate communications, but says her bigger dream is travel PR, where she hopes to combine storytelling with her love of traveling and exploring the world.
For more information about Michigan State University’s Public Relations program, visit the Department of Advertising and Public Relations website here: https://comartsci.msu.edu/academics/academic-departments/advertising-public-relations/undergraduate/bachelor-arts-public.
