Discovering Big Ideas in the Big Apple: NYC Exploration of Brand Building Careers : Online and Extended Programs : Texas State University

School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Location: New York City, NY
Course: MC 3114: Career Exploration: Destination America
CRN: TBD
Program Director: Gene Brenek, genebrenek@txstate.edu
Program Assistant: Sage Baker, smb102@txstate.edu
Course Dates: Maymester, May 14 - June 4, 2026
Travel: May 18 - 23, 2026
Program Fee: $2,506
Course Tuition: $356.08
*Financial Aid eligible

Program Itinerary

The Advertising Study in America program offers students an immersive opportunity to explore the heart of the advertising industry in New York City. By visiting top agencies and organizations, students gain a deeper understanding of agency culture, organizational structure, day-to-day operations, and the broader impact of advertising in a global media hub. This real-world exposure complements classroom learning, helping students connect theory to practice in one of the most influential advertising markets in the world.

Through site visits, networking events, and candid conversations with industry professionals from diverse backgrounds, students gain valuable insights into the range of career paths available in advertising. These interactions not only build meaningful professional connections but also help students envision their own future in the field with greater clarity and confidence. The experience is designed to expand students’ working knowledge of the industry while empowering them to see themselves as future leaders within it.

Date	Activities
Monday, May 18	Travel to NYC
Tuesday, May 19	How does NYC brand itself? The Color Factory Agency tour
Wednesday, May 20	Two agency tours
Thursday, May 21	The inter-relationship of brands: How various NYC museums and other cultural destinations brand themselves and what roles these play in how NYC brands itself. Museum of Arts and Design MOMA or The Met Alumni networking event
Friday, May 22	An exploration of how brands communicate visually through design and marketing. New York Sign Museum Poster House Museum
Saturday, May 23	Travel home

*Itinerary is subject to change. Agency tours will be solidified closer to the program date.

Application Process

Follow these steps to enroll.

STEP 1

Complete SIA student application. Deadline is February 1, 2026.

STEP 2

Applications reviewed by Program Directors & SIA.

STEP 3

Pay $50 program deposit. Deadline is February 22, 2026.

STEP 4

Program FAQ

Expand FAQ List

General Information
- Who is eligible to participate in the program?
  
  All students interested in Marketing and/or Branding. Priority will be given to SJMC majors.
- Will I need to be in person at the San Marcos campus for the course?
  
  There will be an in person orientation on the San Marcos campus prior to the end of the spring semester. Instruction throughout the May term will be online.
Costs
- What is included in the program fee?
  The program fee includes:
  - Lodging
  - Uber from airport to hotel
  - All program activities
  - 1 group lunch or dinner
- What is NOT included in the program fee?
  The program fee does not include:
  - Airfare
  - All meals.
  - On-site transportation. Students are expected to purchase a metro pass upon arrival in NYC.
  - Any additional activities students participate in during program free time.
  - Course tuition.
  *Per SIA policy, airfare is purchased by the student is not refundable by the university. Students are encouraged to purchase flexible airfare or travel insurance in case of the event they are unable to travel.
- What is the program deposit?
  
  Students are required to pay a $50 nonrefundable program deposit to secure their spot in the program. The deposit is applied to the overall program fee.
- Is Study in America Financial Aid eligible?
  
  Yes, SIA programs are financial aid eligible; however, eligibility can vary by student award. Students should always confirm with TXST One Stop whether their financial aid will cover the course tuition and program fee.
Program Preparation
- Will I need to provide my transportation?
  
  Students are responsible for purchasing airfare to/from New York and on-site transportation (Subway, Rideshares).
- Is there a dress code for specific visits?
  
  Dress for lots of walking and smart casual for agency tours.
- Will there be down time on the trip?
  
  Yes, students will have free time after meetings and during the evening to explore NYC.
Drop & Refund Policy
- Course Tuition Refund
  
  Refunds for a dropped extension course are given according to university policy for regular university courses on campus. Refer to the TXST One Stop for more information.
- SIA Program Fee Refund
  
  Students may receive a refund for the program fee if they drop/withdraw within the refund schedule. The program fee refund policy is separate from the refund deadlines associated with course tuition costs. See full drop/refund policy.
  Please note the course start date is not the first day of travel.