Advertising Student Keely-Ross Hunt Visits International Award Shows in France and England to Learn From Industry Professionals
Keely-Ross Hunt, an art director in the BYU advertising program, recently traveled to Cannes and London to attend some of the most prestigious international advertising award shows.
“It has been so busy and non-stop,” Hunt said. “We have sat down with some incredible advertising agencies in London, and we attended award festivals where we got to immerse ourselves in the global world of advertising.”
Hunt’s passion for art has always been a core part of who she is, but it was not until she started studying at BYU that she discovered her creativity made the advertising program a perfect fit.
“I have always been passionate about making art, and advertising seemed like the perfect place to do what I am passionate about with a greater purpose,” Hunt said. “As I started taking more and more classes in the program, I instantly felt like I was in the right place and realized this really was the perfect choice for me.”
Along with other advertising students in the study abroad program, Hunt has participated in projects, spoken with ad agency professionals and visited museums, all to develop the skill of crafting compelling narratives.
“We have spent a lot of time in museums appreciating all kinds of art that will inspire us to be better creatives,” Hunt said. “We have networked like crazy and sat down with amazing professionals who understand the advertising work so well, and we have received some of the best advice ever. I feel so prepped and stoked for my future!”
But every learning experience comes with opportunities to be challenged and stretched.
“I have never traveled outside of the United States in my life before, so this whole trip was out of my comfort zone,” Hunt said. “But I was seriously so excited because I have been dreaming of traveling abroad since I was a little girl.”
Beyond the new experience of traveling abroad, Hunt also felt the uncomfortable feeling every creative understands: sharing your work with industry professionals.
“Honestly, sitting down with other creatives in the industry and trying to feel confident about my work was definitely stretching,” Hunt said. “We participated in portfolio reviews and got feedback from talented professionals — it was amazing. I learned to be confident about the work I have done, and in the skills I am getting better at!”
What once seemed intimidating became an inspiration for Hunt.
“We got to watch a lot of amazing work that was done by incredible professionals. They make things that make people feel, and that inspired me,” Hunt said. “I want to make things that make people feel. Advertising is the opportunity to share what you are passionate about and help other people be passionate about it too.”
Of everything she experienced on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, Hunt said the most important was getting a glimpse of what she can contribute to the advertising industry.
“I feel like I get it now. I get what the advertising world actually looks like, why it matters and how I can be set apart in this world as a disciple of Christ,” Hunt said.
For students who could be in her shoes one day, Hunt gives this advice: “Be confident and always remember God is the best creative. Every good idea comes from God.”
