COMM372T Final Reflection

  As someone who wants to pursue a career in social media marketing, I have found that this class has been one of the most beneficial ones that I’ve taken this semester as a Media Studies Major. I feel like this class has changed the way I have engaged with media in a positive manner. I have noticed that I have become more self-aware when it comes to my new technology media usage, as well as more observant towards others and my own social media presence.

I think my favorite assignment was the Generation Like Discussion board. I enjoyed learning about other’s experiences when it came to social media in their generation. Although most of my classmates fall under the same generation I do (Generation Z), I feel like I mainly related to the Millennial generation more so than others in my generation. For context, I am a 2001 baby, so a lot of my experiences feel close to the later millennial generation’s experiences.

I really liked this assignment because it made me feel seen, especially when it came to acknowledging to myself my addiction with social media. I have changed the way I engaged with social media by taking breaks from social media, including deactivating my Instagram for a week during the middle of the semester. This challenge of Instagram detox helped me realize how crucial Instagram has become in my life. I found myself missing the application, and even subconsciously clicking on the spot on my phone that Instagram was downloaded at as a habit.

Another positive outcome of this class was me realizing how I need to take my social media presence mores seriously. I deleted all the photos that I had where I was drinking or wearing revealing clothes. I also have become more aware of what I am positing on my story. I used to utilize my Instagram story as a personal diary, which was not a smart move on my part. I never thought twice before I posted. Since I started this class, I feel like I have really stepped up and have been making better decisions regarding my posting habits.

Besides trying to clear up my personal social media presence, I feel like I have really taken my professional portfolio seriously. I have become more present on LinkedIn, as well as updating my school portfolio and my marketing portfolio. If I was to give advice to future students about creating a COMM Portfolio, I would tell them to start now. It’s never too early to start curating a portfolio and an online professional present.

By starting a portfolio early as a college student, it helps a student get a leg up when it comes to earning themselves an internships or job. A resume is basically a first impression, and an impressive portfolio only positively adds to that first impression. My resume and portfolio are what has helped me gain the work experience I have now. As a senior, the best thing I did for myself as a young professional was getting a head start in my portfolio. It’s never too late to start.

Overall, I would recommend this class to anyone at ODU who wants to learn more about their online presence or even how to become more media literate.