KENNESAW, Ga. | Sep 30, 2025

Kennesaw State University Honors student Leihana Smith received acceptance into the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra College Ambassador Program. The program connects undergraduate students with the arts through concert attendance, campus outreach, digital storytelling, and hands-on experience in professional arts marketing.

A junior majoring in Media and Entertainment with a minor in Legal Studies, Smith is passionate about all things media, music, and entertainment. “As a musician with a creative spirit, I thrive by using my ideas to motivate and inspire myself and others,” Smith says. “I aspire to make a positive impact in the  ever-evolving entertainment industry.”  
 
While taking a communications course on Law, Ethics, and Diversity, she developed a deep interest in media law, a field that connects the entertainment industry with law and ethics. Since then, she's been fascinated by the ways legal frameworks can safeguard artistic expression. 
  
Smith was introduced to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s College Ambassadors program by her Honors 1100 professor, Dr. Shane Peterson. In this course, students engage in active, team-based learning and develop short- and long-term goals to shape their KSU journey, including the pursuit of competitive opportunities. Recognizing the program’s value for networking within Atlanta’s entertainment industry, Peterson recommended that Smith apply.  
 
She's excited about the opportunity and sees it as a way to dive deeper into the arts. “As an ambassador, I’ll have the chance to promote the ASO College Pass to fellow KSU students, helping more young people access the arts," Smith said. “I will also get a behind-the-scenes look at live music/performance, connect with professionals, learn from musical professionals, and even engage with the ASO legal team to learn about their day-to-day work.” 
  
In addition to serving as an ASO College Ambassador, Smith is an IT Communications Assistant and a First-Year Peer Mentor. She enjoys making a positive impact on campus and supporting others through creativity, all of which contribute to the skills and experiences that will prepare her for her future career. 
 
“We are delighted that Leihana leveraged the support she received in HON 1100 to pursue this exciting opportunity,” said Jamie Elliott, Associate Dean in the KSU Journey Honors College. “Kennesaw State University boasts an outstanding arts program, and it is always inspiring to see our Honors students actively engaging with the local arts community. Leihana’s upcoming experience with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra promises to be exceptional, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate her achievement.” 
 
Smith anticipates graduating in 2027 and plans to attend law school to pursue a career in media law, protecting creative work and ensuring fairness in the entertainment industry. 
 
 Reflecting on her experiences so far, she offers this advice to her peers: “Engagement and self-advocacy are essential to making the most out of college. Speak up, seek out opportunities, and celebrate every win, big or small.” 
 
Students interested in applying for prestigious opportunities should contact the Office of Prestigious Undergraduate Awards.