Soyon (Michelle) Choi

Soyon (Michelle) Choi is a Ph.D. student in the Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations at the University of Texas at Austin. Her research examines how message effects differ based on individuals’ identities—such as fandom or demographic factors—in shaping responses to persuasive messages, with a particular focus on sports as a rich communication context. She also explores related elements, including privacy, narrative, and influencer advertising on digital platforms. 

 

Before re-entering academia for her master’s degree, she gained about four years of professional experience. As a project manager for language and education programs supporting international students in Korea, and later as a staff member at the Chinese Embassy in Korea, she managed visa and diplomatic affairs—experiences that sharpened her skills in cross-cultural communication, public engagement, and message delivery across diverse audiences. During her master’s program, she also served as a running ambassador with New Balance Korea for about three years and as a TRX instructor, blending her passion for fitness with her academic journey. 

 

A firm believer in the motto “healthy body, healthy mind,” she enjoys tennis and running, which sustain her focus and energy for research.