Finding Her Voice: Amber Alston鈥檚 Graduate School Journey at the University of Memphis
Amber "AD" Alston, a PhD student in Communication at the University of Memphis, is
driven by a passion for advocacy, scholarship, and creating spaces where Black women
feel seen and heard. Originally from League City, Texas, her journey to graduate school
has been one of resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting underrepresented
voices.
A Passion for Communication and Representation
Amber鈥檚 educational journey has taken her across multiple schools and cities, shaping her understanding of how messages shape our world. After earning her bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 degrees in Communication Studies from Texas State University, she knew she wanted to further her impact through research and teaching.
Her current work at UofM sits at the intersection of rhetorical communication, organizational communication, and womanism. She is dedicated to studying the challenges Black women face in workplace and social environments, striving to move beyond cycles of mere coping toward true healing and empowerment.
鈥淢y goal is to create research that makes Black women want to say, 鈥業 see myself here,鈥欌�� Amber shares. 鈥淚 want my work to provide spaces of rest, laughter, vulnerability, and visibility.鈥�
Why UofM? A Leap of Faith
Amber鈥檚 decision to pursue her PhD at the University of Memphis was influenced by a chance encounter at the Southern States Communication Association Conference in 2023. At a pivotal moment in her life鈥攇rappling with job uncertainties and her father鈥檚 illness鈥攕he met Dr. Kimberly Johnson, who helped her see the potential in continuing her academic journey.
鈥淎fter prayer, deep reflection, and support from my family, I knew this was where I needed to be,鈥� Amber recalls. Since arriving at UofM, she has found a supportive community, inspiring mentors, and opportunities that have helped her grow as both a scholar and an individual.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Strength
Amber鈥檚 graduate school journey has not been without hardship. Just two months before moving to Memphis, she lost her father鈥攁 loss that made navigating a new city and academic program even more difficult. However, she has leaned on her faith, her community, and campus resources, including the Counseling Center, to navigate grief while staying committed to her studies.
鈥淵ou can鈥檛 succeed academically if you鈥檙e not succeeding mentally or emotionally,鈥� she emphasizes. 鈥淗ealing is an act of resistance, and I encourage other students to seek the help they need.鈥�
The Graduate School Experience: Growth, Community, and Impact
One of Amber鈥檚 most transformative experiences at UofM was participating in the Ida
B. Wells Conference, where she presented her research on Black women鈥檚 body inclusivity.
Seeing how her work resonated with others reaffirmed her purpose and solidified her
commitment to meaningful, applied research.
She also values the relationships she has built with faculty and fellow students. Whether it鈥檚 engaging in deep discussions with her advisor, Dr. Christi Moss, or finding motivation in her best friend and research partner, Mocha Hunter, Amber recognizes the power of community in the PhD journey.
鈥淚 used to be someone who prioritized pleasing others over my own needs,鈥� she reflects. 鈥淕raduate school has helped me discover my voice and establish my boundaries. It has reinforced my drive, perseverance, and faith.鈥�
Looking Ahead: A Future in Research and Advocacy
Amber envisions a career in qualitative and survey research for corporate and nonprofit organizations, analyzing how company policies impact representation and inclusion. Her time at UofM is preparing her for this work by equipping her with the research skills and theoretical frameworks necessary to create real change.
Above all, Amber鈥檚 journey is a testament to faith, perseverance, and purpose. As she continues her doctoral studies, she remains committed to using her voice and research to challenge inequities and empower marginalized communities.
鈥淪truggle is inevitable, but we must create a plan to grow from it,鈥� she says. 鈥淭his doctorate will have my name on it, but it鈥檚 a communal effort. My time at the University of Memphis has shown me that if you have a chance, take it. If you have a dream, chase it.鈥�