Bittersweet Last Week

Its the last week of this class and it is such a bittersweet feeling! I say that because although the class is coming to an end, I have a sense of accomplishment as I complete my final work. As I imagine most of you are, I am scrambling to put the final touches on the final project. With everything going on I find myself reflecting on all of the work we have completed. In COMG503 we have gained public relations experience that will be useful in our professional fields. We also learned a lot about traditional and new media tactics to use in order to reach our target audience. Although it feels like the week have gone by quickly, I believe we were able to cover a lot of information that will help us going forward.

My favorite part of the course was my interview with Kristen. When we started we had technical difficulties. When we were able to figure everything out and it was time to record, we were both nervous! Overall, we were able to pull it together and record our interview. We received great feedback and will use it to improve for future similar assignments. What was your favorite assignment?

We all have worked extremely hard throughout the weeks and I can't wait to see how everything comes together!

Giving and receiving feedback



In COMG 503 we have been given the task to critique interview conducted by our peers. Before starting the graduate program I used to be extremely hesitant to provide a critique. Also, I used to be nervous to receive feedback on my work. What I have learned from my time in the graduate school program is that we are a community. My peers offer constructive criticize in order to help me improve in future situations. Nothing that is said is meant to hurt of embarrass each other. We all would like to see each other develop as students. If I missed something, its awesome to have one of my cohorts let me know so I can correct it.

It is a privilege to receive a critique from my Marist cohorts. I look forward to hearing how I can improve and letting my peers know how that can improve as well. How do you feel about constructive criticism?

Being a full-time student

Before I applied to the graduate program at Marist I did extensive research of many graduate school programs. I knew I wanted to study communication but I had to figure out which program would be best for me. There were a few factors I had to consider while making my decision. One of the options that stood out to me was Marist's option to take the graduate program full-time for one year. Although I knew I would be taking on a lot, it was something I was willing to do.

Going from not being in school for two years to taking on a full-time graduate course load was challenging. I must admit, at the beginning of my first semester I felt overwhelmed. With the help of my cohorts and my professors I was able to feel more at ease. With a lot of my anxiety alleviated I was able to focus more on how to juggle the demands of having two courses.

Creating a schedule was a tremendous help! I was able to manage my time and meet all deadlines. A few course rounds later and I am excited that I have survived 6 courses with 2 in progress. I am towards the end of the program and I am excited for graduation!

It isn't impossible to work full-time while going to school full-time. I have had such a positive experience at Marist. I'm glad to have such great support from my professors and cohorts.

Midterm week

One down, one more to go! Thank goodness I got through this midterm! Now to wait anxiously for the grade... Feel free to vent below :)

My Mid-semester Trip to England

A week before the trip, as I was scrolling Facebook, I happened to notice that my cousin had posted that he had planned a trip to England. Jokingly, I commented "I wish I could go." This prompted a text from my cousin inviting me to travel with him. Due to the fact that I have a full-time job and a full-time school schedule, I figured this could not possibly be a good idea.. especially since it was extremely last minute. After much thought I figured how often would a chance like this present itself? I made the decision to go and it was a great decision!

While in England, we stayed in the town of Twickenham at a hotel connected to their famous rugby stadium. In the short time that I was there, I was able to explore different parts of England and get a taste for their culture. One of the best parts of my trip was that I was able to meet members of my family that I never even knew existed! All in all it was a great experience. I'm glad I decided to allow myself to make such a last minute decision. See below for a few pictures from my trip!

Big Ben

London Snapchat Geotag- We were on our way to see family.

I REFUSED to leave without taking a picture of this sign! At first I thought I'd actually see Zebras! Thank goodness for Google!

Funky fashion from a storefront on my way to Brixton

Preparing for an interview

We have been provided with the interactive assignment of conducting an interview with a team mate. I have a good idea of the questions I want to ask, but I must admit, I've been all over the place this week due to having midterms in both of my graduate classes. I'm actually excited to conduct an interview. The tips given by Justin Meise have been a great help with preparing for when I get interviewed. One tip that I have for preparing for this assignment is referring back to your favorite radio host or TV personality. My inspiration comes from Angie Martinez. I have a long commute to and from work so I am mostly tuned into Power 105.1. In my opinion she conducts the best interviews on that station and definitely exemplifies all of Meise's rules for a great interview.

Is there anyone you will draw your inspiration from for this assignment?