Thursday, October 29, 2026 | University of South Dakota – Sioux Falls
Student Day is an annual AAF-SD experience created specifically for postsecondary students interested in advertising, marketing, communications, design and related fields. It’s an opportunity to step outside the classroom and connect directly with the professionals shaping South Dakota’s creative and marketing industries.
This year’s Student Day will feature a keynote speaker, four industry panel sessions and an afternoon Meet & Greet designed to help students build connections, explore career paths and gain a better understanding of what it’s really like to work in the industry.
Hear From Industry Professionals
Students will have the opportunity to learn from professionals working across a variety of disciplines within the advertising and marketing industry. Four panel sessions will explore different areas of the field, giving students the chance to hear real-world perspectives, ask questions and discover career paths they may not have considered.
New this year: Sports Marketing
South Dakota’s sports industry continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities for marketers, advertisers, creatives, media professionals and communicators. Our new Sports Marketing panel will explore what it takes to market teams, athletes, events and sports organizations in South Dakota and beyond.
Start Your Career Connections
The afternoon Meet & Greet gives students an informal opportunity to connect with agencies, in-house marketing teams and industry professionals from across the region. Come prepared with questions, your resume and a portfolio if applicable.
Students can use the event to:
Explore different careers within advertising and marketing
Learn what industry professionals actually do day to day
Ask questions about internships and career opportunities
Build relationships with local agencies and in-house teams
Get advice on resumes, portfolios and entering the industry
Discover opportunities they may not encounter in the classroom
Keynote Speaker
We’re excited to welcome John T. Meyer, founder of Leadmore, as this year’s keynote speaker. John will kick off Student Day with a conversation designed to inspire students, provide perspective on building a career and set the stage for a day of learning and connection.
Who Should Attend?
Student Day is designed for postsecondary students studying or interested in:
Advertising
Marketing
Communications
Graphic Design
Public Relations
Digital Media
Social Media
Media and Production
Sports Marketing
Other creative and business-related fields
Whether you already know exactly what career you want—or you’re still figuring it out—Student Day is an opportunity to explore what’s possible and meet the people doing the work.
Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. Bring your resume. Most importantly, come ready to connect.