An Oswego native, Melinda Brancato ’25 is a standout example of how SUNY Oswego propels students beyond traditional learning environments into dynamic, real-world experiences. 

Brancato is a public relations major, with a minor in sales, who has seized every opportunity to apply her classroom knowledge in real-world settings since she started at Oswego. Even as a commuter student, her campus life is rich with involvement, from securing an internship as a videographer with the Office of Communications and Marketing through the EXCEL Office, to active roles in WTOP-10 TV, WNYO Radio and much more.

Her practical learning journey began with a pivotal role as a videography intern with SUNY Oswego’s Office of Communications and Marketing, where she mastered the art of camera setups and video editing. This role served as a springboard to more advanced opportunities, such as working with CBS Sports as a runner. Here, Brancato's responsibilities grew to include coordinating on-site talent at major sports events, a testament to her growing expertise and the real-world application of her studies.

Brancato's involvement with CBS Sports has been particularly transformative, allowing her to work at events like the PGA Championship, Buffalo Bills games and the NCAA DI March Madness men’s basketball tournament. These experiences not only fulfilled childhood dreams but also opened professional doors, underscoring the power of hands-on learning. 

Brancato reflects on her experiences with a sense of awe: "The hands-on experience that I’ve gained because of SUNY Oswego’s connections and the alumni, have opened up doors for me like I could never believe. Working PGA championship, Buffalo Bills games, March Madness. It’s something I dreamed of as a little kid to be able to open those doors now and realize that it’s possible.”

Beyond her external opportunities, Brancato's roles within student-run organizations like WTOP-10 and WNYO have further exemplified the Go Beyond the Classroom theme. Through these organizations, she has honed her leadership and media relations skills, crucial for her public relations career. 

Her ascent to vice president of human resources and communication at WTOP-10 particularly highlights her capability to manage complex team dynamics and large-scale projects, preparing her for the demands of the professional world. She said the importance of these roles have helped her harness her communication skills, manage a large social media following and connect with a network of influential alumni.

One of Brancato’s most memorable and influential experiences was organizing the Dr. Lewis B. O'Donnell Media Summit at SUNY Oswego. This annual event not only refined her event-planning skills but also expanded her professional network, directly leading to opportunities with CBS Sports and reinforcing the significance of alumni connections in career development.

The hands-on experience that I’ve gained because of SUNY Oswego’s connections and the alumni, have opened up doors for me like I could never believe. Working PGA championship, Buffalo Bills games, March Madness. It’s something I dreamed of as a little kid...

Brancato's advice to other students is to embrace every opportunity, even if it seems daunting. 

"Go after it, get involved and do things scared,” she advised. “Just because you’re scared doesn’t mean you should turn away an opportunity. Do it scared because you’re going to be thankful later.” 

This mindset has served her well, as evidenced by her success and the competencies she has developed.

Looking forward, Brancato is eager to leverage her hands-on experiences and the network she has built at Oswego to launch a successful career in public relations within the broadcast industry. Her story is a powerful endorsement of SUNY Oswego's commitment to extending learning beyond the traditional classroom setting, providing students with the practical skills and experiences necessary to excel in their chosen fields.