Spring 2021

This is my first installment of documenting my time at the University of Dayton. To hear more about how I ended up here, read my previous blog post here.

I enrolled in…

COM 543- Health Campaigns

In this class we discussed theory and research in the health communication space. We studied past and current health campaigns and dissected the ways in which campaign practitioners cut through the media environment to promote their health campaign.

I enjoyed… Analyzing previous campaigns and seeing how often health messages occur in everyday life. To make a public health campaign you need health expects but also communication professionals to make sure that those messages are disseminated correctly and effectively. There is a lot of good that can come out of a career in health communication.

My major project… This class worked with the university on its COVID-19 research. The research I conducted involved learning how undergraduate students feel about COVID-19 and the vaccine. I came about some interesting conclusions which I then presented to a panel of university staff that was directly involved in implementing pandemic rules and guidelines for the university.

Skills I developed… Creating and writing a research project, critical thinking, analytical skills, writing skills

I really enjoyed learning about this niche part of communication. This class surprised me so much so that I did ponder if I should pick up the health communication certificate (I decided against it. I don’t need to add anything else to my plate). I enjoyed seeing the connection between health issues and communication. Health communication designers and practitioners have to employ research, strategy, and creativity to make public health issues top of mind and create successful campaigns.

COM 555- Theories and Research in Public Relations

In this class, we examined and analyzed theories, concepts, and research methods in the field of public relations.

I enjoyed…Even though my B.A. is in public relations, everything in this class was news to me. I had never studied the history and theories that public relations is based on. I enjoyed learning about these theories and research then applying them to previous work experience. I was able to critically think about my past work and think about ways in which I could have improved. This was a difficult but enjoyable class. I am now grateful that I now have a basis of public relations because I believe it will set me up for success in my future career.

My major project… I completed my research paper on corporate social responsibly and the public relations theory behind it. This is where I was able to really hone in on my writing skills (which has been a goal of mine for some time now).

Skills I developed… Critical thinking and writing skills

I am grateful for the foundation and skills that this class gave me. Learning about public relations history and theory was something that I wished I had learned in my B.A. as the foundation of public relations is crucial when continuing education and /or a profession in this field. With this knowledge, it will help any public relations practitioner improve upon the disciple as it adds a framework to build a successful career upon.

Come back in August to hear how the summer semester went!