ABOUT ME
My name is Rylee Smith and I am a recent graduate from the Univeristy of Tennessee at Martin where I earned my Bachelors degree in Mass Media and Strategic Communication. I am 21 years old and currently reside in Lexington, TN. I am employed at the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce where I am the Member Services Manager. I am in the process of earning g my MASC at the University of Tennessee at Martin. A fun fact about me is that I am a freelance content creator, graphic designer, and videographer.
I am thrilled to work in the field of communications; specifically in social media marketing, advertising, and graphic design. I have a passion for working in the creative landscape and would be elated if you considered me as a business partner.
In my free time, I enjoy writing music, painting, and playing various musical instruments. My original music is primarily inspired by Janis Joplin, Amy Winehouse, and Stevie Nicks. I also enjoy traveling, reading, collecting vinyl records, and curating outfits. I find all of these hobbies to be an expression of my style and fuel my creative flow.
Starting in 2021, I began my social media content creation journey. I have now worked with several brands ranging from beauty to fashion to lifestyle. A few brands that I have worked with include Armani Beauty, Celsius Energy, Peppermayo, Kulani Kinis, The Beach Club, Bright Swimwear, and City Beach Australia.
Throughout and outside of the professional environment, I am heavily devoted to my faith. I am a Christian and always strive for my work to align with my religious values. I owe all of my thanks to my Creator and I believe my work should be an expression of that gratitude. As a freelance designer, I prioritize projects that serve the Kingdom. It is simply my passion!
Rylee Smith
EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY
I recently graduated from the University of Tennessee at Martin. I have worked diligently for the past two years in order to graduate a year early. I also completed an internship/part time job with the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce from May 2023 to October 2023 - it turned into a full time remote job after my internship hours concluded.
PROGRAM
While at UTM, I pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Media and Strategic Communication with a concentration in Media Design. My areas of expertise include: photography, graphic design, print design, writing, and social media management.
POST GRAD
Following commencement, I was employed by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce where I will be working full time as well as completing my MASC through The University of Tennessee at Martin.
GPA
I obtained a 3.9 overall GPA while at UT Martin. Education has always been a priority and I aspire to consistently apply my knowledge and skillset to my responsibilities at the Chamber.
EXPERIENCE
GRAPHIC DESIGNER/social media manager
indecisive
May 2023 - Current
As I was interning for the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, I delved into freelance work. * I began working for a local band, Indecisive, to create graphics and social media content for their platforms. * By doing so, I have been able to enhance my skills in Adobe's: Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
Social Media Manager
Henderson County Chamber of Commerce
May 2023 - October 2023
As the social media intern, I was responsible for the upkeep of the Chamber's social media platforms as well as messaging channels. * These included: Facebook, Instagram, Constant Contact, Hubspot, Adobe, Canva, Gmail, and GrowthZone.
"Rylee has been our rock since day one, and does an impeccable job with our designs and social media"
- Casey Stanfill; lead singer of the band Indecisive -
SKILLS
Public Relations
I am experienced in the field of public relations and communications law/ethics. I am was an active member of PRSSA and attended ICON in Nashville.
event planning
Throughout my internship, I learned how to successfully plan a networking event for local businesses. These events were called "Business After Hours". I also shadowed and watched as my supervisors created, organized, and carried out the Festival of the Lakes 4th of July Celebration.
social media management
I am experienced in the social media management field; I am accustomed to Hubspot and Slack. I participated in a mock social media agency - Taking Flight Media (From COMM 605 Course - 2023)
adobe programs
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I learned to become proficient in Adobe; I specialize in Illustrator, Premier Pro, Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom, and Audition.
print/ digital writing
I am experienced in both digital and print writing. I am capable of writing clear, concise, and factual stories for a desired project.
photography & Editing
I am experienced in taking photos/video on different cameras in different lightings and settings. My editing style is uniquely my own. I use Adobe Lightroom to correct lighting and adjust color as well as Adobe Premier to edit video footage.
Brenna A. Foster Leadership Award
AWARDS AND CERTIFICATIONS
National Beta Club Scholarship Recipient
Hubspot
Certifications
UTM MMSC
Outstanding Designer Award
In 2018, I received the Brenna A. Foster Leadership Award from West TN GCA Allstars. This award is given to an athlete who demonstrates not only leadership, but bravery, kindness, and confidence on and off of the cheer floor.
Prior to being admitted to the University of Tennessee at Martin, I received one of the top National Beta Scholarships. This resulted in being awarded $6,000 from the organization.
1. Hubspot Marketing Software
2. Hubspot Social Media Marketing
These certifications have allowed me to continue learning & growing in the strategic communications field.