Her Campus, an international women's college magazine with an active App State chapter, offers a space for college women to find community, acceptance, and professional development. Described internationally as the No. 1 women's college magazine, the App State chapter provides an environment where students can explore a sense of "girlhood" and build lasting relationships, according to members. The club meets in Anne Belk Hall, Room 238, fostering connections among students.
Her Campus extends its journalism beyond online articles, actively utilizing social media posts to connect with its audience and striving to be a global community for girls. The magazine covers a wide array of topics, from mental health challenges and political issues to relatable stories about sex and relationships, all presented "with absolutely no judgement." This approach offers a welcoming environment for young women at a time when they may feel criticized by the world.
Allison Brown, a senior digital journalism major and the current president of the App State chapter, found Her Campus three years ago when she was a shy newcomer scrolling through the App State Engage page. She sought a club that would offer acceptance and has since grown into a more confident journalist and an advocate for inclusive communities. Brown's journey highlights the club's impact on personal and professional growth.
Kaitlyn Bright, a senior public relations major and a member of the social media executive board, initially learned about the club through Brown. Bright was hesitant to join at first, stating she was "not a writer." However, her interest was piqued by the social media aspect of Her Campus. She attended her first meeting hoping to connect with peers in her field and other disciplines, and to inspire her own creativity. Bright ultimately stayed for the strong sense of "girlhood" that she felt immediately upon entering the meeting room, emphasizing that the relationships with other members are a primary draw of the club. Bright also noted a unique opportunity provided by the club: members can reach out to brands and receive public relations packages to review products for the magazine, such as a perfume she received and reviewed.
Kylie Fitzgerald, a senior digital journalism major and a third-year "Her Campus-onian," serves on the executive board for public relations and marketing. When she was searching for clubs, Fitzgerald sought something fun, exciting, relevant to her major, and beneficial for building her journalism portfolio, rather than joining just for the sake of it. She remarked that the club provided exactly what she envisioned a club should be: "Just girls hanging out."
Beyond fostering immediate friendships and a sense of community, Her Campus equips its members with professional journalism training and practical experience. This experience helps members build their portfolios and gain confidence in their skills. The relationships formed within the club are also long-lasting. Brown mentioned that she maintains frequent contact with the two previous presidents of App State’s Her Campus chapter, discussing both advice and casual topics. She affirmed that "The girlhood stays even after you leave the club," underscoring the enduring bonds forged through the organization.
