Turning passion into ‘The Daily Happy’ 

Sarah Bernick (‘26 public relations) did not plan to study public relations. Now, as a senior at Iowa State University, she can’t imagine doing anything else. 

Bernick, who is also double minoring in communications studies and apparel merchandising and design, will graduate in spring 2026. Her path to public relations was not direct, but she said that’s what made it the right fit. 

“I’ve always loved the interaction between humans and being able to communicate with each other,” Bernick said. “I also really love writing. Public relations combines storytelling, writing, human interactions, and public speaking, which are all things I am passionate about.” 

Bernick originally came to Iowa State to study interior design. After realizing it was not the right path, she decided to explore her public relations minor. That decision changed everything. 

“I had heard so much about the Greenlee School, so I thought, ‘Let me give it a try,’” she said. “I ended up loving it and it opened so many opportunities for me.” 

Turning an idea into impact 

One of those opportunities came through Start Something LAS Academy, a program that helps students develop business ideas or social impact pursuits into meaningful projects. Bernick got involved after pitching a brand concept in the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship’s Pitch Competition during her sophomore year. 

“I came in with just an idea and a logo called ‘The Daily Happy,’” she said. “But I didn’t really have a story or purpose behind it yet.” 

Through the program, Bernick worked to define her ideas and its impact. Her original concept was a website where users could complete a survey about what brings them joy and receive personalized daily text messages. 

However, she faced challenges when it came to building the website. 

“I don’t have experience with web development, so I felt stuck for a while,” Bernick said. “Then I realized my goal was to bring joy to people and I love public speaking. So, I decided to turn it into a podcast.” 

That shift led to the creation of her podcast, which focuses on helping listeners navigate everyday challenges and find small moments of happiness. Bernick records episodes regularly, often using her own experiences as inspiration. 

“I don’t try to teach people how to be happy, because that’s not realistic,” she said. “It’s more about letting people know they’re not alone and sharing things I’ve learned.” 

She typically records on Sundays, calling it her “reset” time and releases episodes shortly after. Topics range from feeling overwhelmed to learning how to slow down and appreciate the present. 

Building experiences through internships 

Outside of the classroom, Bernick has built an impressive resume with multiple internships. Her first experience was as a marketing and public relations intern at an agriculture and accounting firm, where she focused on writing and data work. 

She later interned with the NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium, where she created stories, managed social media, and even communicated with astronauts aboard the International Space Station. 

Most recently, Bernick worked as a public relations and communications intern for Anthropologie in Philadelphia. There, she gained hands-on experience in the fashion industry, working with editors, managing product placements, and helping with crisis communication. 

One of her favorite experiences was leading an event in New York City in collaboration with Vogue Summer School. 

“I got to act as the head of communications and lead the entire event,” she said. “It was my first real leadership opportunity, and it showed me what I’m capable of.” 

Looking ahead 

These experiences have helped shape Bernick’s future goals. She hopes to work in public relations within the fashion industry, eventually becoming a PR director. She also wants to continue using her voice through public speaking. 

Looking ahead, she hopes to expand “The Daily Happy” beyond the podcast. 

“In five years, I would love to host a ‘Daily Happy’ convention where people can come together, listen to speakers and connect,” she said. “My biggest goal is just to make an impact on someone’s life.” 

Reflecting on her college journey, Bernick encourages other students to stay open to change and take advantage of opportunities. 

“Be open to anything that comes your way,” she said. “And talk to people you would not normally talk to. So many opportunities come from those connections.” 

For Bernick, taking that advice led her to a path she never expected but one she now fully embraces.