Jessica Febo MCM’25, COM’24, began her career while she was still a Rutgers student, quickly becoming adept at balancing her studies with her full-time job as a Web and Media Content Assistant at the Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology and her second job as a Psychometrist at Worrywell.

Febo has also worked as a Group Therapy Intern at Medallion Care Behavioral Health; a Behavioral Therapist at Circle Care Services; a Research Assistant at Cognition and Learning Center Lab; and a Marketing Strategist at KXSH MEDIA LLC.

Speaking of her experience in these roles, Febo said, “These experiences have enriched my skills in digital media, strategic communication, and psychological assessment, allowing me to develop a diverse and adaptable skill set.”

As a Master of Communication and Media student at SC&I, specializing in Health Communication, Febo describes the process of writing a master’s thesis and the benefits she has gained from pursuing her master’s degree at SC&I, and explains how SC&I has prepared her for the everyday challenges she faces at work.

SC&I: Tell us about your role as a psychometrist with Worrywell. What does a day in your life look like?
JF: Working as a Psychometrist at Worrywell has been a fulfilling journey filled with new challenges and learning experiences. Interacting with all different kinds of clients has enhanced my emotional intelligence, adaptability, and communication skills by learning how to tailor my approach for each client’s specific needs. 

This is a rewarding experience for me because I am able to have a positive impact in people’s lives being part of the process in their assessment and care. I play a part in helping them on their path to better understanding and support. Each day offers an opportunity to grow, challenge myself, and support clients with empathy and professionalism.

SC&I: You wrote your capstone thesis about the evolution of communication patterns and behaviors on social media. What was the process of writing a thesis?
JF: Writing my master’s capstone thesis was an eye-opening and intensive experience. My research expanded my critical thinking about how we use these digital environments in a professional and personal setting. It highlighted the profound and subtle ways technology continues to influence us, as there is always some new app or feature to use. Completing my thesis was a major academic and personal milestone, solidifying my passion for studying the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication and media psychology. I even had the opportunity to present my paper at the 2025 New Jersey Communication Association (NJCA) Conference.

SC&I: How has SC&I prepared you for the everyday challenges presented by the work you do today? Did you receive any notable advice you would like to share?
JF: I had the invaluable opportunity to blend my coursework while taking classes from SC&I and the psychology graduate school. Learning from expert faculty during my academic journey at Rutgers has greatly enriched my knowledge and refined my professional skills. Their insights not only deepened my understanding of communication and psychology but also provided me with practical strategies that I now apply in my work.

One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received was from one of my professors, Mark Beal, in regard to life. He reminds his students that “life is a marathon, not a sprint.” True fulfillment comes from embracing the journey itself, rather than fixating solely on the destination. The journey is the reward!

 

"I've gained a deep appreciation and knowledge of purpose-driven and relationship marketing in today’s business landscape. Beyond profit-driven strategies, I’ve come to understand how brands and organizations can leverage their platforms for meaningful impact, championing causes that align with their values and fostering long-term trust and loyalty among their audiences."

SC&I: How did pursuing your master’s with SC&I benefit your career?
JF: Earning my master's with SC&I exponentially helped me to become the career professional I am today. During my academic and professional journey, I developed skill sets for health communication, particularly the ability to write and speak with empathy and clarity in professional settings. Communicating effectively, especially on highly sensitive or vulnerable topics, requires compassion and cultural awareness. Whether addressing clients or the public, how information is conveyed can significantly impact understanding, trust, and emotional well-being.

Additionally, I gained a deep appreciation and knowledge of purpose-driven and relationship marketing in today’s business landscape. Beyond profit-driven strategies, I’ve come to understand how brands and organizations can leverage their platforms for meaningful impact, championing causes that align with their values and fostering long-term trust and loyalty among their audiences.

Moving forward, I’m excited to continue applying these principles in ways that contribute to ethical, impactful, and human-centered communication.

"Moving forward, I’m excited to continue applying these principles in ways that contribute to ethical, impactful, and human-centered communication."

SC&I: Is there any advice you would give students looking to pursue their Master of Communication and Media?
JF: To definitely prioritize your mental and physical well-being, as especially in graduate school, life can become overwhelming with responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations, but maintaining balance is essential for both personal and professional success. Your professors are there for you, and advocating for your needs can make all the difference in your learning and success.

Above all, be kind to yourself. Just showing up and doing your best in that moment is enough and every small step forward is still a step in the right direction. Embrace challenges as part of the journey, and trust that you can achieve incredible things!

Learn more about the Master of Communication and Media and the Communication major at the Rutgers School of Communication and Information on the website.

Photos: Courtesy of Jessica Febo MCM’25, COM’24