Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2026 graduates.
Bailey Waszak didn’t start her college journey knowing exactly where she would land. But after exploring different academic paths, the Illinois native found her fit as an ASU Online student at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
“Once I realized the digital marketing field combines my drive to be creative with analytical and strategic thinking, I knew that it was the right path for me,” Waszak said.
Waszak is graduating from the Cronkite School’s digital audiences degree program, which prepares students to grow and engage audiences online. Students develop skills through hands-on experiences and work with real clients.
“I knew I wanted to major in something business-related,” she said. “I learned about the digital audiences program, chose it as my minor, but ended up loving it so much I changed it to my major.”
Waszak said flexibility and a creative mindset were the keys to her success in understanding the profession. This month she will be recognized as one of Cronkite’s Outstanding Undergraduate, and she is continuing to find her path through authentic storytelling.
Below, learn more about her ASU journey.
Question: What inspires you most about the future of digital marketing?
Answer: What inspires me most about the future of digital marketing is how brands have more authentic relationships with their audiences today by shifting toward messaging that sounds more human and less scripted. I am excited to help continue shaping marketing into something people experience as a connection, not an interruption.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: The biggest idea that stuck with me from one of my marketing classes at ASU is how value is subjective. This completely changed my perspective on every product and service that I see or hear about. What seems completely useless to one person may be an everyday essential to another person. Marketing is the art of recognizing that value is personal.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: Keep going! It may seem impossible to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you'll get there, and the hard work will pay off. Prioritize school, but don't forget to also prioritize the things that bring you joy!
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