Empowering young business alumni: May Rogan ‘24

The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business empowers students to evolve into innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders thriving in the dynamic global marketplace of ideas. This young alumni series highlights recent business graduates who are putting their Clemson education to work in bold, meaningful ways. From their first day on campus to their first big career move, these Tigers are showing the world how Clemson Powers Business.

A Clemson legacy

Growing up in Summerton, South Carolina, Clemson always felt close by, especially with many of her family members having attended the University. May Rogan ’24 was raised around Tiger fans her whole life, attending Clemson Football games for as long as she can remember. But when the time came around to select a college, Clemson was not her first choice.

“I was actually the one who didn’t want to go to Clemson at first,” she admits. “A lot of people in my family had gone there, so I thought I’d do something different. But my high school English teacher made me go on a campus tour. That changed everything.”

Seeing Clemson through the eyes of a student helped her realize how much the University had to offer. “There was so much energy and forward thinking. I remember seeing the Watt Center and hearing about the new business building, and I knew this was a place where big things were happening.”

Finding her fit

Rogan originally thought agriculture was what she wanted to pursue, but she eventually landed on graphic communications after sitting in on a class with her longtime friend, Ellee. “When [Ellee] invited me to go to class with her, I didn’t realize it would be exactly what I was looking for,” Rogan says. “I’m thankful for her and that experience. It’s what convinced me to switch to a business major.”

When she was in high school, she became interested in photography, and the graphic communications program taught her a lot more about photography as well as other design processes like printing.

The right opportunity at the right time

When her senior year rolled around, Rogan began the job hunt process. She came across a job for an assistant marketing director at the South Carolina Waterfowl Association and applied for it. The role turned out to be the perfect fit for her.

“I always knew I wanted to do something in agricultural marketing. Especially in South Carolina, agriculture is such an important part of living here.”

Rogan’s hometown is very close to her new job. So close that when she was a child, she actually attended a summer camp organized by the South Carolina Waterfowl Association. “I started going to Camp Woodie when I was little, and it just stuck with me,” she says. “It’s funny how I ended up right back where I started, but now in a completely different role.”

Rogan now gets to create content, tell stories and help promote conservation and education programs through her job.

“It feels really meaningful to be back in a place that I care about,” she says. “Clemson gave me the tools and skillset to get me where I am today,” she explains. “And now I get to use those tools to make an impact right here at home.”