<p><span class="p-body">Abby Russell believes everyone has a story to tell—and that those stories matter. As an instructor in the NYU SPS <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/storytelling.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Storytelling</a> program, she helps students shape their narratives with authenticity and impact. Drawing on her professional experiences, she guides students to refine their voices and effectively communicate across different platforms.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Russell came to NYU SPS after studying history and political science at the University of Pennsylvania and earning a master’s in journalism at Columbia University. Throughout her career, she has embraced opportunities in media, from writing and producing content to developing courses for universities and online learning platforms. When colleagues suggested she teach at NYU, she jumped at the chance to work with students who were eager to sharpen their storytelling skills.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">The storytelling certificate program at NYU SPS provides students with a foundation in crafting compelling narratives that work across multiple formats. Whether students are focused on creative writing, corporate messaging, or public speaking, Russell helps them develop the tools to connect with their audience.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">The program emphasizes both time-honored techniques and new technologies, such as AI, to help students strengthen their communication skills. “At the end of the day, good storytelling involves moving and inspiring your audience. AI is a helpful tool, but it’s the human emotional connection that always resonates best.”</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Students in Russell’s class come from all over the world and work in fields as diverse as journalism, finance, health care, and public relations. One technique she teaches—‘Sensory Writing’—encourages students to tap into their five senses to make their narratives more vivid and engaging. “I want my students to feel before they communicate,” she says. “It always improves the messaging, no matter the medium.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Beyond sharpening technical skills, the program fosters a sense of community among students. “They gain an incredible, global perspective just by interacting with their classmates,” Russell says. “Consistently, students tell me how much their storytelling aperture expanded by going through the program.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her message to prospective students is simple: Don’t wait to share your story. “We have more ways to communicate today than at any other time in human history,” she says. “While it may seem daunting, I’m telling you—we need your stories. The world is waiting for you to tell them.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Gain the tools and confidence you need to tell your stories when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/storytelling.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Storytelling</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>