Throughout my time at Longwood University as a Communication Studies major, I have participated in the completion of many diverse courses. All of these courses have improved my knowledge within this field of study and have allowed me to grow both individually and professionally. Overall, the Communication Studies Department has really succeeded in their efforts to prepare students for life after graduation!

COMM 101- Public Speaking

• Throughout this class, I developed many public speaking skills. These skills included eye contact, voice projection, and how to efficiently prepare and organize a speech. We were also encouraged to successfully evaluate and give feedback to others based on the knowledge shared over the course of the semester.

COMM 141- Introduction to Media Writing

• Writing and reporting skills were focused on throughout this course. We were instructed on how to conduct professional interviews, gather information and facts, then report on the subject. public relations skills and other grammar writing skills were also strengthened through the work completed during assignments.

COMM 210- Media and Society

• This course focuses on examining the social and economic relationships between media and the people within today’s society. We evaluated how media has changed over time and how other changes within society influences further changes.

COMM 280- Fundamentals of Public Relations

• Throughout this course, we were first informed of the history of public relations and how it has progressed. We were then tasked with carrying out multiple sample tasks that an ordinary public relations team would carry out. Student’s strategic communication skills were focused on and improved.

COMM 350- Persuasion Theory

• The fundamentals and theories involving persuasion were taught throughout this course. After learning the theories, we were taught how to apply them, then gave persuasive speeches to the class demonstrating our knowledge of the theories.

COMM 354- Public Relations Writing

• Expanding on the previous public relations knowledge that was taught in other courses, this courses allowed us to further our knowledge and demonstrate our skills through writing. We wrote pieces such as news releases, social media strategies, and brochures. These different styles of writing allowed us to gain experience with each style, while also improving our overall writing skills.

COMM 410- Digital & Social Media Technology

• This course examines how digital and social media influences users and consumers in today’s society. We recognize that society and technology are always changing, and in the communication studies field, we must learn to quickly adapt to these changes in order to benefit the clients, companies, and organizations we work for. This course also allowed me to receive a Hootsuite certification, which will be helpful for all future experiences.

COMM 460- Communication Research

• Paired with a partner, we conducted research throughout the course of this semester. We learned research methods, analyzed statistical data, and improved our writing skills. We also became IRB certified in order to conduct all surveys and other research with our participants.

COMM 492- Communication Internship

• During this course, I was required to complete a minimum of 150 internship hours. The internship I completed was at the Career and Alumni Center at Longwood University, with the title of Digital Marketing Intern. I was encouraged to apply all knowledge from previous Communication Studies courses to the work in my internship. This opportunity really prepared me for all future jobs or experiences that may come along after graduation in May 2019.