Back to the Basics…

I may not be a runner, but I do know how to enjoy a walk in the park on New Year’s Day.

By the looks of my last blog post and my recent blog stats…I’ve been away for a while. Granted, I could blame it on the holiday season or on the big step of college graduation. But really, I could’ve taken a few hours in between watching White Christmas or Miracle on 34th Street with the family to get reconnected.

But I chose not to–and yet, I still didn’t want to abandon ship.

I admit the blogosphere was addicting at first. I found myself wanting to read news articles and blog posts rather than a text book.

Blogging Benefits
As many others have questioned before me, I wondered about the true impact of blogs and social media on the world. I also wondered how it has impacted me. I’ve realized that it has: 

• Connected me to a world that I was clueless of
• Forced me to question and reflect on what I read 
• Given me a venue for my voice
• Provided me with opportunities to learn more about the industry
• Motivated me to be a part of the conversation.

Getting Reconnected
I’m logged on and reading again. Getting re-acquainted with the blogosphere, is just like riding a bike. To me, blogging has had a positive and worthwhile impact. 

I’ve also realized that I want more. I want to blog. I want a career that will teach me something new everyday–PR seems to be a good choice. And I want to be open to possibilities that are yet to come.

Looking Back…
I am thankful for the experiences and the people I met at Kent State. Here are a few helpful tips that helped me leave college with a smile.

Take a class that you will enjoy–even if the credits do not count toward your major. I took a dance class every semester from one of my favorite instructors, Miss Beverly. I’ve been dancing since I was five years old and going to college didn’t stop me from dancing.

Take a class that forces you to try something new. Kent State offers a wine tasting course in the geography department. The course takes students to different wineries in Northeast Ohio to try a variety of wines–from a Port to an Iced Vidal Blanc. Beyond the obvious reasons of why this class is popular, the instructor, enologist, Tony Carlucci, is very passionate about this topic and teaching students about the world of wine. Classes that challenge you can mold you into a well-rounded person. (On the left: That’s me learning how to properly open a bottle of Champagne. This new skill makes me very well-rounded. : )

Get yourself connected to the campus. Join a student organization. You will meet a diverse group of people and learn how to work within the diverse group. These people can help you network and possibly land that internship or future job.

Don’t hesitate–when the time is right, take on a leadership role. I was active in several organizations, and I held positions within PRSSA and my sorority, Delta Zeta. These positions taught me how to work in a team atmosphere and how to manage my time wisely.