JMS graduate student Allison Gennette receives Dean’s Award

After a year of hard work, Allison Gennette, a graduate student in the School of Journalism and Media Studies, unexpectedly saw her efforts recognized.

On March 1, the 17th Annual San Diego State University Student Symposium was held, marking the largest in university history. Students from across campus gathered to present their research.

Among them were Gennette, who is studying to receive her MA in Mass Communication. She won the Dean’s Award for her presentation. This recognition goes to the top presentation in each college. 

“I was pleasantly surprised because I wasn't doing it to win an award,” Gennette said. “I wasn't thinking that I was going to get one because there were so many amazing presentations so it was really cool to see that my work was acknowledged.”

Approximately 20 people attended Gennette's presentation, including students, judges, her class advisor and Dr. Alanna Peebles, her thesis advisor.

Titled "Buying Was So Last Season: Persuasive Effects Of De-Influencers Versus Influencers On Purchase Intentions," her thesis explores the impact of influencers versus de-influencers on online purchase decisions and its implications for marketing and product sales.

“I thought this was a fun new twist that was emerging in the social media space that I wanted to look more into because there really wasn’t that much research on it when I started,” Gennette said. 

Though the research results are not finalized as the study is ongoing, Gennette is confident that the overall findings will remain consistent. Peebles added: 

"It was really exciting that Allison could introduce this to the audience with a methodologically strong and practically relevant project. I am very proud of her resilience and her journey as a scholar." 

Gennette's ultimate goal is to apply this research to her future career in marketing.

Throughout her time at SDSU, she has also been a teaching associate in classes like COMM 103 and JMS 210, which has sparked her interest in a potential teaching career.

“I want to settle into a career in marketing, specifically influencer marketing in the health, beauty and wellness space and I would love to eventually circle back into teaching. First, I want to gain experience in the realm of marketing so I can apply it to teaching,” said Gennette.

With her graduate research completed and a Dean’s Award received, Gennette is set to graduate in May and embark on her marketing career.

"It has been a very challenging but rewarding experience and I'm really glad I've gotten to this point and gotten through it,” said Gennette. “I’m proud of the outcome.”