By: Lily Marlowe
As I look back over my four years at JMU, there are so many things I have learned. There are also so many things I wish I had known sooner! For potential Bluestonians and future SCOM students, here are my best three pieces of advice.
Take advantage of your professors.
Your professors are all experts in communication studies and are continuing to do research of their own! Going to office hours or just stopping by your professor’s office to chat and check in is one of the best resources you have. Simply talking to your professors helps them understand how you are doing in their class and how they can best support you. Talking to them will only contribute to your success. Ask them about their research, and you’d be surprised at the opportunities that might come up in conversation. You are your own best advocate.
Get involved and take advantage of all of JMU’s resources.
There are so many great clubs and organizations that will help communication studies majors! As an individual with a concentration in public relations, I applied for Bluestone Communications and joined the Public Relations Student Society of America. Both of these organizations have provided me with valuable real-world experience. The organizations haven’t just made me a more dedicated and well-rounded student. They’ve also boosted my resume and confidence, providing me with skills that are used in the workplace. Bluestone and PRSSA are just two out of the over 500 clubs and organizations on JMU’s campus. Here is the full list of groups on campus. One thing I have learned during my last few years is to take advantage of the resources you have right in front of you! The JMU Career Center also offers free professional headshots and free professional attire from the Career Closet.
Start early and practice often.
When it comes to SCOM classes, understanding theories and being able to apply them can be difficult. It can be confusing trying to differentiate between theories. I’ve learned that the best way to study them is to start early and make sure you understand how to use them in a real situation, rather than just knowing their definition. If you’re able to explain it to a friend, then you’re in a good spot. It’s also helpful to find keywords that trigger your memory so you can pinpoint the theory and identify the differences. Practice makes perfect. The only way to be a good communicator is to use your skills. JMU has a Communication Center where students can schedule appointments with a tutor to receive feedback on a presentation. Presentation skills are everything and will be one of your most useful assets post grad!
Don’t miss the opportunities you have right in front of you, and make use of those resources!
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