Abstract
This article describes the establishment of a student communication consulting firm at Ball State University as a model of experiential education in applied communication. Created in 1984 with minimal investment by eight students, the firm, Pentad Affiliates, provided consulting services in organizational diagnostics, professional presentations, sales training, interpersonal skills development, and employment preparation. Operating largely within the university but also serving private and public sector clients, the firm generated revenue while offering students direct experience in research, marketing, and professional communication. The discussion outlines administrative structures, faculty support requirements, and procedures for program initiation, including needs assessment, student selection, and advertising strategies. Pedagogical benefits included enhanced student engagement, skill application, and faculty research opportunities, while financial returns supported departmental initiatives. The article concludes that student consulting programs offer a self-sustaining means of integrating theory and practice, increasing departmental visibility, and preparing students for careers in organizational and consulting contexts across higher education settings.
Recommended Citation
Freeman, Dorothy E.
(1986)
"A Student Communication Consulting Firm: An Experiential Education Option,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 58, Article 24.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol58/iss1/24
