[youtube]http://youtu.be/XMHyxYnUs4I[/youtube]

One of the most intimidating tasks when continuing your education is declaring a major. With so many out there to choose from, how do you know which one is for you? There are some majors that may seem very familiar to you, but you just don’t know what they consist of.

PRSSA members at a Networking luncheon, making contacts and obtaining job opportunities

Many have heard of a communication degree, but what is it? If you are reading this, your question also might be “What is the program like at Longwood?” These are two very distinct questions, because the program here is unlike any other.

Here are three unique aspects of the Communication Studies program here at Longwood: the COMMunity, numerous class options, and many career paths you can prepare to enter through the curriculum.

The COMMunity

The “family” portrait!

As mentioned in the video above, we take great pride in the connectedness between students, as well as their faculty. Dr. Naomi Johnson, the Department Chair, and her fellow faculty members strive to create an environment that allows us to grow together. Why is this important? This is not only a way of support for when project deadlines are approaching, but also allows you to share ideas and learn from each other. Textbooks provide a foundation, but learning from your professors and peers is invaluable. The COMMunity is an aspect of the program that will stick with you well beyond your stay at Longwood. It is, as senior Mass Media student Jeffrey Reason stated , a “family.”

Classrooms aren’t always the best place to learn

Classes

The way classes are taught in the Communication Studies program at Longwood is what sets us apart. You can choose either a Mass Media or Organizational Communication and Public Relations concentration.  No matter your concentration, you will explore the industry standards through real world assignments. Depending on your concentration, you could be broadcasting and reporting, or putting together a Public Relations campaign for a local non-profit. Your experience doesn’t stop with an exam, it stops when your professional portfolio and social media brand will impress any potential employer. Communications Studies students don’t just learn definitions; they acquire skills that will make a difference in their search for employment or graduate school admittance.

Career Paths

One of our Alumni, Nathen Epstein, now sportscaster for WAVY-TV

Now many of you are thinking, where can this degree take me? Well that too, is endless (click here to see a few); and, Sarah Hobgood, Assistant Director for the University Career Center, is with you every step of the way to help sort through your options.  Yes, you can pursue a career in Journalism or in Public Relations, but you can be specialized in areas such as Social Media Management, Marketing, Human Resources, Event Planning, or a sports anchor covering a crazy trick shot.

Some of you may still not be convinced to pursue a degree in Communication Studies, and that is okay.  Just know if you want faculty and peers that will treat you like family, a range of classes to prepare you for boundless opportunities, or if you want career options that will help you discover your passion; Communication studies may be exactly what you are looking for. So let’s talk about it, because we’d love to have you on our team!