Photo courtesy of Gabriella Setti
“I am confident that I can pursue any branch of communications with this degree, and the knowledge it unlocks transcends industries.”
For years, Gabriella Setti’s path seemed clear: law school, advocacy and a future in the courtroom. But somewhere along the way, a different calling emerged; one rooted not in legal arguments, but in the power of narrative.
“I realized that what I have always loved before all else is storytelling.”
With a degree in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies and minors in History, Pre-Law and Psychology, Setti had already been accepted into multiple top-tier law schools. But instead of following the expected route, she chose something less conventional and more aligned with her creative instincts.
“This [love of storytelling] is what led me to deviate from the path, taking the road less traveled by and to USC’s PRISM program.”
Her decision to pursue the Online MS in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy and Management wasn’t just about career flexibility; it was about integrating creativity and connection into her professional life.
“Having a degree in public relations specifically enables me to make storytelling and relationship management central components of my professional journey,” says Setti.
Even with law school still on the horizon, Setti saw PRISM as a strategic move.
“I was not afraid to pursue this degree because I knew it would still be extremely valuable when paired with a JD and qualify me to pursue a niche such as intellectual property or marketing law.”
Choosing PRISM
When researching programs, PRISM stood out to Setti for two key reasons: “its flexible format and USC’s prestige.” Already working at a PR agency, she needed a program that could accommodate her schedule while offering industry-relevant academic rigor.
“USC Annenberg’s global recognition as the best communications program in the United States has undeniable appeal for future employers and academic pursuits.”
One of the most unexpected highlights of Setti’s experience came from a course she initially approached with hesitation: PRSM 515: Business and Economic Literacy for Communicators. She recalls feeling unsure at first.
“Initially, I had entered the course feeling apprehensive because I had only taken economics once before, and it was not a graduate-level class.” But that uncertainty quickly gave way to enthusiasm.
“I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed and looked forward to the live sessions and assignments. It empowered me to understand the larger purpose and function of PR in business.”
Program Experience
Setti credits much of that transformation to Professor Ronald Piovesan, whose teaching style left a lasting impression. “His teaching style made each class feel like a collaborative experience where we were all learning from and with each other. Thanks to Ron, I am now exploring the possibility of working in the banking/finance sphere, and I have set my eyes higher on the corporate ladder.”
While she initially had reservations about joining an online program, those concerns were quickly put to rest. “I came into the program feeling a bit cautious because of the stereotypes online programs often receive. However, USC’s Annenberg program defied all of those misconceptions.” She found connection and community in unexpected places, from GroupMe chats with classmates to professors who made themselves accessible across time zones.
“My classmates and I have always made it a point to exchange contact information. My professors also go above and beyond to make themselves available to their students. They also usually offer to connect on LinkedIn for future networking opportunities.”
The academic rigor also exceeded her expectations, especially given the pace of the accelerated 1-year track that Setti chose. “In terms of the coursework, I have found that it has been challenging in the best way possible, pushing me to expand my knowledge and strengthen my skills.”
Looking back, she’s proud of how much she’s grown.
“I was surprised by how quickly I could feel myself improving as a student and a practitioner simply by being in such a rigorous program with like-minded individuals.”
Career Impact and Advice To Future Students
Today, Setti applies her PRISM training with confidence.
“I would say the PRISM program has benefited my career by equipping me with business acumen, economic literacy, and a high-level strategic mindset. I feel fully confident in my understanding and ability to contribute valuable and outcome-driven insights.”
And her advice to future students?
“This program encompasses so much more than merely public relations; it also explores marketing, economics, investor relations, advertising, content creation, branding and influencer management. I am confident that I can pursue any branch of communications with this degree, and the knowledge it unlocks transcends industries. You will walk away being comfortable diving into the unknown, prepared to ask the difficult questions and changed for the better.”
Gabriella Setti is expected to graduate in December 2025.
Learn more about the Online MS in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy and Management.