As a student of Communication and Media Studies at St.Norbert College, I have learned how communication keeps us all together. It is evident that communication goes beyond talking with others, but rather their history, identity, values, influence, and connection to others. The communication we encounter does not solely come from people, but as well as any form of media. These messages have an impact and can change dynamics in our lives. Throughout my time as a communication student, I have become a more effective communicator as I am able to clearly explain my goals and needs, successfully confront conflict, and strengthen relationships in my personal and professional life. The relationships in my personal life have been made stronger due to several courses I have taken, including communication and emotional well being. This was one of the most meaningful classes I have taken, as I gained a better understanding of how I communicate with myself. Additionally, my professional connections have grown as a result from my leadership and communication skills growing from the education I have received from SNC.
My discipline is in Media Studies, where I have been educated on the impact and importance of media in our society. I completed a critical research projects of gender role stereotypes in Broad City and Queer Eye, along with completing a study approved by the IRB on Instagram activism and the motivations behind it. My media concentration highlighted the impact of having a large audience along with how representation affects consumers. I have gained knowledge of a variety of theories and how consumers want specific media.
After graduation, I am interested in pursuing a career in project management or strategy at an advertising agency. My graphic design background has allowed me to grow in my creative ability while my liberal arts education has made me a critical thinker and effective leader. In the professional experience I have had at Boundaryless, I have gravitated most towards these positions. From June-August 2021, I worked directly with the marketing department at the Mall of America and strategists at True Media. This experience showed me how to work remotely, collaborate with others, and maintain deadlines in a professional setting. Moving forward, I would love to try more positions to gain more real world experience in the communication and media field.