08/05/2026
Hi everyone! It’s Emma Carroll Hudson, IDJC’s Communications Specialist (aka the digital ace to those who subscribe to the newsletter). Before I head off to my next adventure, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my time working for IDJC and Newhouse DC.
Three years ago, I never imagined I’d end up living and working in Washington, D.C. Yet this city has become an unexpected home—and one that confirmed exactly where I’m meant to be.
Working with the Institute for Democracy, Journalism & Citizenship and Newhouse DC at SU’s Washington DC Center has given me the opportunity to build communications campaigns, launch and grow social media platforms, tell the stories of incredible students, faculty and even alumni. Plus getting to give guest lectures, lead Canva workshops, and explore corners of DC that many never get to see were experiences I’m grateful for. I’ll always be especially proud of campaigns like Democracy Playbook with Syracuse Football and above all, of helping share the work happening at the intersection of journalism, democracy, and public life.
More than anything, I’m grateful for the students and colleagues who made this experience meaningful. Your curiosity, creativity, and encouragement have been a constant reminder of why I chose higher education.
Perhaps the biggest surprise of all? Discovering that my passion for pop culture and fandom didn’t take me to places like LA or NYC—it belonged here in DC. Working at the intersection of media, culture, and democracy only strengthened my commitment to studying those connections and bringing them into the classroom.
In a few weeks, I’ll begin my Ph.D. in Communication at American University. I’m excited to carry these experiences with me as I continue researching, teaching, and working toward creating learning environments where students know they can be both authentic and professional.
Thank you all for this chapter. The next one begins just a few Metro stops away 🍊💙→ 🦅❤️
[and this is for people who decided to read this far, knowing I have to say it: thank you all for accepting me as a passionate BTS ARMY and letting me get away with including BTS in my work from time-to-time 💜]
