 "Photo: Corryn Fraser")
The University of West Georgia’s Mass Communications department held its 29th annual Media Day in the Campus Center Ballroom on March 10. Current students, alumni, department instructors and media professionals all attended.
Media Day featured a discussion panel, sponsored by Gradick Communication, a networking session with over 40 professionals, a Times-Georgian sponsored luncheon and a special awards ceremony.
The panel discussion took place among six professionals in a variety of media fields including a radio host, a newspaper editor, a news anchor, a public relations professional, a programming consultant, and an operation technician. Of the many topics discussed, some dealt with the various ways of communicating with the public using social media such as Facebook and Twitter. The professionals also advised students about how to find a job in their desired field.
The networking session was highly anticipated, and students and professionals mingled. Many students were overwhelmed at first, but the humility of the professionals and the encouragement of the mass communications faculty put them at ease.
“In general, I wanted students to get the opportunity to work with young and seasoned professionals [in] various public relations and media fields,” said co-chair of Media Day and UWG faculty member Amber Smallwood. “[I wanted them to learn] specifically how to get started, what some of the rewards and challenges are and [to] connect with potential mentors.”
All Media Day attendees were treated to a luncheon, where alumna and former editor of The West Georgian Susan Hale was keynote speaker. This was her first major visit to UWG since her graduation in ’97.
“I’m thrilled to be here,” said Hale. “It’s been a humbling experience, just the fact that I’m back at West Georgia. Coming here feels like coming home.”
The accomplished alumna gave current students a number of tips on how to be successful individuals. Hale said that students must have a hunger for success, to go above and beyond the required minimums. She also said to gain as much real world experience as possible, such as an internship in a related field. Hale advised students to learn how to write, reminding the listeners that it is an important skill for any professional. She said that future professionals should diversify their skills and become flexible in many areas.
The speech was followed by a small reward ceremony that recognized hard-working juniors and seniors in the Mass Communications department. Some received awards, certificates and a few were recipients of scholarships.
“It’s so exciting to see young people that are trying to gain the skills they need to be successful,” said a proud UWG faculty member.
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