Tag Archives: alumni

#UDcomm318 – Students Take Social Media By Storm

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By: Julie Solomon, a junior Interpersonal Communication major

As a class member of #UDcomm318, I have gotten to experience University of Delaware’s very first Social Media Management course. Two of the university’s finest social media experts, Carolyn White Bartoo and Meredith Chapman, lead the class. According to Professor Bartoo, this course was created by a “random impulsive moment that was actually a culmination of many years of thinking.”

When Professor Bartoo and Professor Chapman met, they found there was a natural relationship created due to their similar expertise. Professor Bartoo describes this as a magical coincidence or kismet. This excitement between the two sparked interest in creating #UDcomm318, and through several correspondences, they pitched the idea of a Social Media-focused class. The dynamic duo alternate for the weekly class, in which one is the “captain” for the night and the other plays the support role.

Many aspects of #UDcomm318 have been a success, including hosting a Google Hangout with international students about the use of social media. While we are busy talking about Insomnia or the latest fashion statement, their reality is war versus peace. Professor Bartoo noticed a “peace on earth moment,” seeing her students’ light bulbs go off in their minds and eyes while becoming personally enlightened about other cultures. In addition, students love creating digital stories in #UDcomm318. From a professor’s point of view, Professor Bartoo was having a blast running up and down the halls and seeing that “a silly activity was actually the culmination of 9 hours of the class so far.”

As a student within this course, Allison Lane, a junior communications major, spoke further about the digital story activity. During the digital story, we broke up into groups and created either a Vine or Instagram video. Before this class, many students had no idea how these types of digital media could actually be used to send effective messages, but the activity truly put what we had learned into action. Allison Lane states, “My favorite aspect is how interactive it [#UDcomm318] is that we are in class for three hours, but it doesn’t feel like that because we have a lot of hands-on activities.” This class always has us as students on our feet and engaging in conversation on several different social media platforms.

#UDcomm318 provides a learning environment to master new skills. One new skill that we have gained is “live-tweeting as well as deep dive-tweeting,” says Lane. This means live-tweeting an event, such as the several National Agenda speakers, while pulling outside sources into the conversation in order to create higher-level thinking and to increase engagement. We have also learned to use tools like TweetDeck and Hootsuite, which will be beneficial if (and when) we work with social media platforms in our careers.

Social Media Management is an extremely stimulating and advantageous course for any student at the University of Delaware to enroll in in future semesters. Allison Lane articulates it best when she says, “All companies need social media. It’s important to know how to effectively use today’s technology and engage with others on multiple platforms.” No matter the major or career aspirations, these skills are exceedingly critical to succeed in the so-called “real world” that students will be entering shortly.

#UDcommFUN: Spring Internship Opportunity with Congressman Carney

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Congressman Carney’s office is looking for interns for the spring semester.

Positions are open in the Wilmington and Georgetown offices.  Students would need to be available for 10-15 hours per week through the spring semester.  Although the position is unpaid, the office covers parking and is flexible with scheduling. The internship can also be taken for course credit.

Applications will be due Friday, December 5.  Interested students should email, fax or mail Albert Shields a copy of their resume and a cover letter.  More information is on the website here: http://goo.gl/32pknS.

Have questions? Contact Albert at: Albert.Shields@mail.house.gov or (302) 691-7333.

Intern Responsibilities:

  • Attend community meetings, business visits, and interviews with Congressman Carney.
  • Assist staff with constituent requests, including summarizing case information and distributing to appropriate staff members, sending out privacy release forms, drafting letters on behalf of Congressman Carney to federal agencies asking for their assistance.
  • Assist with press responsibilities, including drafting media advisories and press releases, tracking the Congressman’s print and online media presence, and helping to update the office social media sites.
  • Drafting letters to constituents upon requests: Eagle Scout letters, Greetings and congratulations, Letters of recommendation/support
  • Assist with policy research as appropriate

#UDcommFUN: 3 Tips to Make the Most of Your Crazy Schedule: Meredith Castellani

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While preparing for job interviews, I practiced answering a number of questions. One that was particularly difficult for me to answer was: “What is your biggest weakness?” After much thought, I found my biggest weakness to be taking on too much responsibility at one time. However, looking back on my past experiences, this might also be my biggest strength. I now look at this “weakness” as being open to opportunity.

The past year has been a whirlwind of opportunity for me, and I could not be more grateful. Last semester, I was New Member Orientation Chair for my sorority, Alpha Xi Delta, which required managing and leading seventy-seven new members, all while balancing being Online Editor-in-Chief for UDress Magazine, the teaching assistant for COMM313 with Professor Bartoo, applying for summer internships, and managing my own school work. It is a miracle I made it out of that semester alive, let alone with my Honors Program GPA unscathed. I have to accredit my success to organization.

Here are some ways to stay organized amidst chaos this semester:

  • Plan ahead. At the beginning of each semester, write down all exams, due dates, events, and deadlines in a calendar. If you can anticipate what’s coming up next, you will be more likely to be graceful under pressure.

  • Utilize To-Do Lists. I make a to-do list religiously every day. I include even the smallest tasks on my lists, partially so I don’t forget and partially because crossing things off the list makes you feel productive! The more productive you feel, the more you will get done that day.

  • Prioritize. What is due at midnight? Tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Order to-do lists in this manner, so you get the most important and time sensitive items out of the way first. (Extra tip: Always ask for deadlines if they aren’t given to you initially!)

Bravo_TV.svgNot only does organization play a role in academic success, but it also makes applying for and maintaining internships more efficient. When looking to apply, I first list the ideal places I would like to work. Next, I check on application deadlines and requirements for each. Then, I research and customize each cover letter and resume. After submission, record the date you formally applied and plan when you will follow up. I recommend utilizing UD Career Services to help prepare for interviews! Taylor-Swift-Philadelphia-Style-Magazine-Cover

By following these steps, I have gained so many unique experiences through internships. My experience includes Masterpiece Advertising Design, Bravo and Oxygen Media at NBCUniversal, a handful of guest blogging gigs (Creative Multimedia Systems and most recently, Revel U), and currently, Philadelphia Style Magazine. I encourage any student to get as much hands-on internship experience as possible. Not only does it look impressive on resumes, but it will ignite the drive and passion in you necessary to be successful in all aspects of life!

Follow Meredith on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and her blog! 
Twitter: @meri_christmas & @mer_castellani
Instagram: @miss_a_meri_ca
Linkedin: Meredith Castellani

Tell Your Story: Scott Slotkin, Junior Editor for Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

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Scott Slotkin earned his bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Delaware in 2011. He minored in journalism and interactive media.

Currently, Slotkin is a Junior Editor for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Among his many responsibilities, he edits content for the show, as well as for the YouTube channel and other media outlets.

But that’s not all. first-promo-for-the-tonight-show-starring-jimmy-fallon-new-era-begins

Slotkin also works at ABC, where he edits reality shows and sizzles for the network’s development department. These sizzles are pitched to a variety of networks like HGTV, DIY, Discovery, A&E, TLC and others.

Prior to ABC, Slotkin was a Jr. Editor at MLB Network, where he won a Sports Emmy award for work on MLB Tonight, their daily live studio show. Before that, he worked at Starworks Group, a marketing and branding agency, in their Branded Entertainment department.

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Slotkin’s impressive career started in the heart of the First State, right here at the University of Delaware. While an undergraduate studying mass communication, Slotkin interned for a year at NBC10 in Philadelphia and also at Wired 96.5/92.5 WXTU. On campus, he was actively involved with the Student Television Network (STN 49 TV).

Pictured: Scott Slotkin holding his Sports Emmy award for his work on MLB Tonight. 

Photo source for Jimmy Fallon photo: Aceshowbiz.com

Tell Your Story: Chelsey Rodowicz, UD Communication Class of 2014

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Everyone loves stories. Learning from others, gaining insight, and sneaking a peak into someone’s life is all a part of the fun in Communication! We learn from others, whether it be through a blog post, a Tweet, a photo, or a face-to-face conversation. We constantly tell our stories and today, Chelsey Rodowicz, UD interpersonal communication alumna from the Class of 2014, shares her’s.

Interested in telling your story? Email our independent study student, Keri Betters, today: kbetters@udel.edu

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What year did you graduate from the University of Delaware?

I graduated in 2014. I miss it already!

Where are you currently employed?
I am working for Ogilvy Public Relations in San Francisco in their technology practice.
What are some of your daily responsibilities?
So many different things. I create media lists, draft pitches, staff calls with clients, pitch media, plan events, write briefing documents for our clients, work on coverage reports for announcements, and so much more. The great thing is it changes every day!
What is one thing someone would be surprised to know about you?
I’m not sure if it’s really a surprising thing about me, because I’m not too quiet about it, but I love languages. I’m making it a goal to be fluent in at least two additional languages at some point in my life. Ideally, I would be able to speak Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German and Polish, but I’m not sure how realistic that is.
How did the University of Delaware prepare you for the workforce?
At UD, there are so many resources for students to utilize. I think taking advantage of all of the networking and professional development opportunities that PRSSA offered really helped jet set me into public relations. I keep thinking about how I got to where I am today and it truly all started from Fall Activities Night freshman year when I found out about PRSSA.
As a longtime PRSSA-UD executive board member and a past PRSSA-UD president, what is one skill/experience that you’re thankful for post-grad?
I’m thankful for so many of the experiences that I got to have through PRSSA-UD and each one has had a hand in launching my career. However, I think my favorite experience and most memorable would be when Grace Leong came to speak at one of our meetings my freshman year. After hearing her explain what Hunter PR does and really what it actually means to work in public relations, I felt that spark, the light bulb lit up, whatever cliche term you want to use. It just hit me that this is what I want to do.
From one Blue Hen to another, do you have any advice for current COMM students?
Aside from joining PRSSA, which was instrumental for me, I’d say it’s best to try everything out if you can. If you’re in Mass Comm, try taking an Interpersonal elective and vice versa. The great thing about COMM, and sometimes the downfall, is that the opportunities post-grad are endless with this degree. To get some direction, it’s best to try a little bit of everything and see where your heart lays.
What is one piece of advice that you received that has helped you get where you are today?
I think the one piece of advice that I kept reminding myself of throughout my college years was “do what you love.” It sounds so cheesy at first but I think it is so impactful on your wellbeing. If you’re spending 60 hours a week working at a job that you love, you will be much happier than if you were working 40 hours a week at a job you hated. And I found what I love, and I feel very blessed and lucky to have been able to do so.
What is a favorite memory from your college years?
How can I even choose one? I loved college! When I think back, I have so many great memories – from classes, to conferences, to time well spent with my best friends. Gosh, I’m starting to feel nostalgic! One of my favorite (and saddest) times was graduation. It’s breathtaking to be on the Tubby Raymond field with thousands of your fellow underclassmen and your family in the stands. I felt more accomplished, proud, excited, nervous [insert essentially any emotion here] in that moment than I have ever felt before.
What is a favorite memory from a Communications class and who was the professor?
Where do I start? It was an absolute pleasure to have every single Communication professor that I had. I’m going to break the rules and provide three favorite memories – two with Danna Young and one with Scott Caplan.
So we all take the COMM245 class with Danna (if you’re a declared COMI already), and you find out how truly hilarious she is. I think now that she’s tenured I can tell this story… She was a little bit late to one of our classes one day, only by about 5 minutes or so. She comes in out of breath and apologizes profusely for being late. Dr. Young then goes on to say she got pulled over on her way to class (at the dreaded speed limit change on 273) and I think she was going something like 55 in the 25. She was just trying to get to class! I can’t remember the exact outcome if she was able to talk her way out of it or not, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she did. Another one with Dr. Young was in her persuasion class. We were discussing affirmative listeners and she called out myself and another girl in the class, Jess Klein, as being affirmative listeners meaning that we show our understanding and attention by nodding, saying “mhm,” etc. while in class. To this day I still catch myself doing it (Thanks, Danna!).
Another memory is from Dr. Caplan’s Communication and Conflict class. I don’t think any other class taught me so much about myself. I don’t think there is one specific memory from the class but I just know that was one of my favorites. I was going through a bit of a rough time that year and his class really helped me get a grasp on how to handle the situation. I’m sure I’ll be analyzing conflict situations for years to come!

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#UDcommPR: 7 PRSSA-UD Representatives Will Attend PRSSA 2014 National Conference

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The following blog post was written by Natalie Hines, senior mass communication major and current president of PRSSA-UD. Read further for exciting news!

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Hi, my name is Natalie Hines and I am the president of the Public Relations Student Society of America Chapter at the University of Delaware, an award-winning and nationally recognized Chapter throughout the organization.

We are pleased and fortunate to announce that we will be sending seven members of our Chapter to attend the PRSSA 2014 National Conference from October 10 to October 13 in Washington D.C. The conference’s theme this year is titled, “Intersections: The Meeting Place of Communications and Culture.” PRSSA-UD representatives include:

Natalie Hines, Senior, Mass Communication (President)

Keri Betters, Senior, Interpersonal Communication (Public Relations Director)

Laura Hepp, Junior, Mass Communication (VP of Professional Development)

Allison Lane, Junior, Interpersonal Communication (Meetings Coordinator)

Allie Kory, Junior, Mass Communication (Operations Director)

Katherine Bartell, Sophomore, Communication Interest (Finance/Fundraising Director)

Julie Millisky, Sophomore, Communication Interest (General member)

The National Conference is the largest annual event gathering public relations inspired students from an array of colleges and universities. Students arrive ready to network not only with public relations professionals from across the country, but with their future colleagues; other PRSSA members.

Professionals lead a variety of sessions tailored to several types of public relations including sports, healthcare, restaurant and corporate communications. Other leadership workshops, career exhibitions and celebrations bring the brightest public relations students together for a weekend of a lifetime.

PRSSA-UD and our generous sponsors have allowed me to attend two national events; PRSSA 2014 National Assembly and PRSSA 2013 National Conference. These experiences have truly shaped my professional and personal career goals. I have witnessed the personal success students achieve when they arrive in a new city, meet other PRSSA students and make connections with professionals. To say National Conference has changed my life would be a sincere and honest statement.

We would like to thank our sponsors who provided scholarships for seven young professional women attending National Conference this year. They include:

Please view our sponsor video from last year! To follow the event, join the conversation via social media with the hashtag, #PRSSANC, and follow our Chapter on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit our website, www.prssaud.com.