As someone who has studied Communication and Media Studies, I can attest that this field is dynamic and diverse, covering a wide range of topics such as interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, and cultural studies. Throughout my studies, I gained a deep understanding of various communication processes and the role of media in society. Understanding how communication shapes culture and society, and how media influences our perceptions of the world are some of the most influential topics to come my way as a undergrad.
In my courses, I was introduced to various theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches to analyze and understand communication processes. I also developed skills in critical thinking, research, and analysis, which have proven to be valuable for both personal and professional growth. As a student who specialized in Communication and Media Studies, I had the option to choose from a range of areas of concentration, such as strategic communication, online communication, media studies, and cultural studies. Depending on my area of focus, I engaged with different scholarly perspectives, such as critical or social scientific research.
Studying Communication and Media Studies has had a profound impact on my personal and professional life. It has given me a deeper understanding of the world around me and helped me become a more effective communicator. It has also equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue various careers in fields such as advertising, public relations, journalism, and media production. When I decided to pursue a career in dog grooming, I found that these skills were directly applicable to the pet care industry. Although I had to learn the technical aspects of grooming, such as animal behavior and grooming techniques, my communication skills and passion for animals helped me provide exceptional care for pets. In the future, I hope to start my own dog grooming business, and I believe that my background in Communication and Media Studies will be an asset in achieving that goal.
In addition to my studies, I had the opportunity to gain outside job experience that complemented my Communication and Media Studies degree. One of my most notable experiences was participating in the Disney College Program, where I worked as a lifeguard at Typhoon Lagoon and various resorts, providing interactions with guests from all over the world. This role allowed me to hone my interpersonal communication skills and develop a customer service mindset that has proved valuable in my career.
Another significant job experience I had was working as a Housing Operations Assistant at St. Norbert College. In this role, I managed the day-to-day operations of the student housing facilities, oversaw maintenance requests, and worked closely with residents to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment. This experience provided me with hands-on experience in organizational communication and taught me how to manage complex systems effectively.
At the end of my undergrad in Communication and Media Studies it has had a significant impact on my personal and professional life, providing me with a rooted understanding of communication processes and media’s role in shaping culture and society. With a specialization in this field, I gained valuable skills in critical thinking, research, and analysis, which have proved useful in various career fields. Although I decided to pursue a career in dog grooming, my Communication and Media Studies background has been an asset in providing exceptional pet care, and I hope to start my own business in the future. Additionally, my outside job experiences, such as the Disney College Program and working as a Housing Operations Assistant, have allowed me to apply the skills and knowledge gained in my degree to real-world settings, further enhancing my abilities. Overall, I am grateful for my experiences in Communication and Media Studies and excited for the opportunities it has opened for me at St. Norbert College
