The Best of VALLEY: Edition Two

VALLEY is a place like no other. It is where creatives come together as one to produce something extraordinary. Every division of the magazine adds a special touch. There can’t be one without the other, and that’s what makes us so unique. This edition is dedicated to Eliza Koster, someone who truly embraced every side of VALLEY.

Established In Experience

Currently, Eliza is the associate director of brand partnerships at People Inc. (formerly Dotdash Meredith). Before that position, she was an advertising sales assistant at Dotdash Meredith. This company is a giant within the editorial world and, being so honest, us current members dream to hold these positions. Regarding her Penn State education, she graduated in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in public relations, advertising and applied communication.

Eliza joined VALLEY the fall of her sophomore year, and her first position was on the Instagram posts team. She then became the team lead shortly after. Later on, Eliza held the position of co-PR director for two semesters, and then business director for her senior year. Simply put, during her time with VALLEY, she interacted with every division possible.

Live, Laugh, Love VALLEY

Eliza loved the magazine from the very start. On the Instagram posts team, she worked on creating social media about pop culture. This transferred over into her current job where she is wonderfully surrounded by it. Eliza, in her own words, describes the never-ending magic of our magazine: 

“There is a place for everyone in VALLEY, which is so special. Actually seeing the work that is put forth come to life, and just creating such a beautiful piece of art at the end of the day that involves so many people is so special and rewarding.”

During her time as business director, Eliza completed one of the hardest tasks known in the magazine’s history. Along with the help of the divisions, she actually got the V31 magazine printed for launch (gasp!) If you interact with the magazine or not, you should know how difficult this is to pull off. The chances of it happening are like winning the lottery multiple times over.

“Another thing VALLEY taught me is that, if you put your mind to something, you can get it done no matter what that is. That specific scenario really proved it to me too.”

Favorite Magazine Issues

V30 and V31, which came out in fall of 2022 and spring of 2023, respectively, are Eliza’s favorite issues. She worked on both of these as the business director. Eliza explains that she loves both of them equally, as she witnessed the different divisions work cohesively as one body. V31 is also special because at the time, the business, creative and editorial directors (plus the cover star) were all redheads. 

“[Those issues] hold a very special place in my heart. Both of the cover stars were incredible to work with, and it was such a fun experience.”

Both cover stars, Yamiya and Jaqueline, shared their stories of grief and adaptability. Their personal journeys shined with the help of every division in VALLEY. Eliza explains how the magazine is a great creative outlet for anyone and everyone, and that it truly helps make a difference for those involved.

Advice For All

In this writer’s opinion, our magazine is one of the most special parts of Penn State. There is nothing else like it, and it is one in a million. For those who have been a part of VALLEY for a while or have just recently joined, Eliza has some advice for you: 

“It’s such a great place to meet new people, to meet lifelong friends. Do all of the things that you can, and hold on to every single experience. Really just enjoy your time at Penn State because it is such a special, special place and experience.”

Who do you want to see on the next edition of Best of VALLEY? Let us know on Instagram @VALLEYmag!

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