CSU Provides Opportunity for Olivia Stein to Craft Her Best Story

Olivia Stein didn’t have to look far to find opportunity. She simply leaned into it.

A student in the School of Communication at Cleveland State University’s (CSU) Levin College of Public Affairs and Education, Stein has quickly built a resume that reflects both ambition and adaptability. Double majoring in public relations and communication studies, with minors in broadcasting and digital content production, she is crafting a college experience defined by leadership, hands-on learning and a clear sense of direction.

That clarity, though, didn’t come immediately.

“I was a film major my freshman year and determined I wanted to be in the industry, but not create film,” said Stein. “I talked with Dr. Beth Thomas in the School of Communication about the possibilities for me with a communication degree. She has been a huge mentor.”

With guidance from faculty and a willingness to explore new paths, Stein transitioned into communication and quickly immersed herself in student life, starting with the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Within a semester, Stein advanced from secretary to president of CSU’s PRSSA chapter.

“The opportunity with PRSSA has created more networking and social events to make key industry connections,” said Stein.

Stein’s leadership doesn’t stop there, as she’s also heavily involved with CSU-TV, the university’s student-run broadcast program. Currently serving as vice president of editorial, Stein is preparing to step into the role of president.

“CSU-TV is the first student-run broadcast program on campus,” said Stein. “It’s based in the film school, but we’re collaborating with Dr. Rob Whitbred in the School of Communication to integrate more communication students.”

Stein has helped build a leadership pipeline, appointing Angelina Gergis as co-president of PRSSA to ensure both organizations continue to thrive. It’s a move that reflects Stein’s drive and her understanding of teamwork in student leadership.

“Olivia is a go-getter and sets a great example of what good leadership looks like. As a sophomore, she took initiative when she was handed the reins to run PRSSA at Cleveland State,” said Dr. Thomas. “She created opportunities and events for students to connect with one another, including indoor rock climbing, and learn from industry professionals who are business owners, communicators in the healthcare field and broadcast reporters and producers. She remains active across campus serving in multiple leadership roles, earning high grades in her classes and gaining valuable experience at her internship with Ideastream. She takes full advantage of what CSU and the city of Cleveland have to offer students.”

While Stein’s on-campus involvement is impressive, her work off campus is equally impactful.

Stein currently interns with NewsDepth, a weekly digital series produced by Ideastream Public Media that breaks down current events for younger audiences. Working alongside producer Natalia Garcia, Stein contributes to the creation of engaging, educational content which includes everything from scripting to editing to on-location production.

“My internship at Ideastream has been incredibly valuable,” said Stein. “Producing is exactly what I want to be doing. I’m in the studio every week. It’s a hands-on experience where I’m writing, editing, you name it.”

Stein has already gained field experience producing Earth Week segments at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

For Stein, these opportunities are no coincidence. They’re a direct result of CSU’s location and culture.

“With CSU being right in the heart of downtown Cleveland, there are so many opportunities right in front of you,” said Stein. “Plus, the support of the faculty is great. Everyone is so welcoming and always there to help.”

With graduation set for May 2028, Stein still has time to add more chapters to an already successful story. Her trajectory, though, is clear. With leadership in student organizations and meaningful industry experience, Stein’s not just preparing for a career. She’s already well on her way.