Many people around me always had a plan and an idea of what they wanted to devote their life to when they grew up. However, I was always the opposite. Throughout my life, I have never truly known what kind of career I want to pursue as an adult. Once I learned you can major in Communication and Media Studies, I instantly knew it was the right choice for me. I was intrigued by the countless options of career paths, which gave me more time to figure out what I was interested in. Communication and Media Studies majors become professionals with diverse skillsets that can be utilized by businesses and corporations. I believe this variety is the meaning of being a Communication and Media Studies major. Within the profession, students becomes well informed on many topics such as: types of communication, theories, criticisms, technologies, and strategies. The possibilities are endless, which leaves room for growth and development in the future.
I found I am more interested in the media side of my major, so I chose that as my concentration. In doing so, I have learned so much about media and how they effect and influence us. How we verbally and nonverbally communicate is so important when creating meaning with others. News media can influence their audience so much and must be written with care, thoughtfulness, and the correct information. Learning communication styles from other cultures is necessary to do business with them. Finding the correct and reliable sources for information is critical when researching data. All of this and more make a communication and media studies professional successful in the workforce when conducting business with other companies or stakeholders, creating campaigns, networking, building a brand, gaining an audience, and sharing information to the public.
Through all of the courses I have taken throughout my college career, I have found that I love creating and planning visual content and media campaigns. It is so satisfying to see my ideas come to life and be seen by many people. In February 2022, St. Norbert College used elements of a Teen Dating Violence Campaign I created with two other classmates. Seeing our hard work be used around campus was amazing and I want to keep making more in the future. During the fall semester of my senior year, I researched, planned, and created an entire social media campaign on paid partnerships that included a full campaign proposal document and 18 media pieces. I also have been creating content for St. Norbert College’s Dance Marathon, as I am the PR and Multimedia Chair this year. Working with my fellow e-board members to plan events has been an incredible experience and I am honored to have been given the opportunity to share my ideas.This e-board position has made me realize that I am interested in event planning more than I thought. I am always thinking of ideas to make our events more exciting and interesting for students to attend and join our organization so we can keep raising money for Children’s Hospital Milwaukee.
After graduating from St. Norbert College, I plan to pursue a career in social media marketing, social media management, content creation, or event planning. However, I am open to any opportunity that comes my way and gain more knowledge and skillsets in the process.
