Over the course of my three years at St. Norbert College, my communication classes were always some of my favorite. I started my journey in the communication field as a minor; I was curious and semi-interested in the field. After taking my first, introduction-level communication course, Interpersonal Communication, I discovered my passion for the field. After taking Principles of Mass Communication, I switched the minor to a major and have only been proved right in my decision. After three years, I can confidently say that there was never a communication class that did not leave me critically thinking. Through St. Norbert’s communication program I deepened my understanding of communication between individuals, small groups, and companies as a whole. I learned how to better myself by examining my behaviors through the communication theories discussed in my communication classes. I have been able to apply theories like Social Exchange Theory, Relational Dialectics Theory, and Expectancy Violation Theory. With the help of these theories I have been able to better myself and my communication with my friends, family members, and professional life. I have also been able to give words to my relationship issues and communication problems.

I specialized in communication rather than media because, as a theatre fan and English major, I have a passion for how words can be crafted into meaning, and how that meaning can be interpreted. However, my interest in communication does not mean that I am not interested in media and the effects it has on the public. I took the class Media Effects to better my knowledge in that exact area. That class helped my better understand how media effects the general public. Additionally, my Independent Study with Dr. Mark Glantz explored the gender roles in Disney classic films and their remake counterparts. Both of these classes, along with Television Criticism, allowed me to broaden my understanding of the entire communication field, both the communication and media sides.

On the communication side of the communication program, I took multiple classes to better my understanding of all modes of communication. I took Small Groups Communication to better understand how communication works in smaller groups; in fact, I was able to apply this material as I ascended to the E-Boards of several organizations at SNC. Family Communication helped me better understand the complex family dynamics that exist in the United States, and the world. Additionally, Business and Public Speaking helped me strengthen my ability to talk in front of large groups of people. All of the communication focused classes at St. Norbert College have enriched my life and my ability to communicate in all areas of my life, professional and personal.

After graduation, I am interested in using both my English and communication major to the fullest. My ideal profession would be a fiction editor; this job would utilize both English and communication. I am also interested in working in a Public Relations department since that job area would also use both my communication and English knowledge.