MY JOURNEY AS A COMMUNICATION SCHOLAR
Twelve years ago, I toiled as a server at Hooters to pay my way through college. While bussing a table, I shared with a customer that I was a communication major at the local university. He scoffed at my choice of study and said, “’Communication? That sounds like a fancy way of asking ‘do you want fries with that?’” I was perturbed as communication is such a beautifully, broad field. The tools of communication overlap into other fields, such as business, marketing, and education. I imagine this man would be surprised to learn how significant a communication-based education is. Can you imagine someone with a teaching degree unable to effectively present a concept to their students? Perhaps if some physicians had taken an interpersonal communication course, they would have better bedside manner. I have held an array of positions from sales, marketing, event planning, to fundraising, all thanks to my communications major. However, my experience as communications scholar is still a journey that I am navigating.
​
My journey as a communication scholar began as a freshman at the University of Montana. I chose broadcast journalism as my major. I thought I had mapped the perfect career path. I loved mass media and imagined an exciting career as a journalist reporting the next big story. I dreamed about the days I’d be sitting at an anchor desk of a local affiliate news station delivering the top story. However, four weeks into my first semester, I sat in a recording booth after numerous outtakes regretting my choice in major.
​
I realized it wasn’t exactly what that story was that interested me, but how it was being delivered, how it could evoke emotion, how it could infer something else, and in turn could completely change all aspects of the “news”. I quickly changed my major to communication studies and found my rhythm as a communication scholar. My favorite courses involved business communication and public relations; therefore, organizational communication became my concentration.
​
Upon graduation, I assumed I would work in human resources or consulting as many business communication scholars do. Unfortunately, the county was on the brink of a recession, and options were slim. After a year of searching, an opportunity opened to become an event consultant for an independent event planning firm. It was a great fit for me as I could apply the skills I learned during my undergraduate studies. I flourished in the fast-paced, high-stress environment of event planning where social standings, conflict resolution, and cultural differences can truly affect how you communicate in sensitive situations.
​
After gaining experience with event planning and implementation, I progressed into new roles in nonprofit organizations. I found an affinity for non-profit work as it gives me a great sense of purpose in what I accomplish. I use negotiation tactics and presentation skills when selling services and sponsorships, and I recognize the impact of relationship building and leadership skills when working for nonprofit organizations.
​
While I knew I wanted to continue in non-profit work in order to make an impact in my community, I started to feel restless in my career. I yearned for a new challenge that could lend to more growth, earning potential, and leadership opportunities. These opportunities that I desired required the competitive advantage of an advanced degree.
​
The communication and leadership program at Gonzaga University appeals to me as it expands on the theories and skills I learned during my undergraduate studies. Accreditation is very important me as I researched different schools and programs. Gonzaga University is highly recognizable in the Spokane community and could offer opportunities for me to network with local alumni. Additionally, Gonzaga’s online courses allow me to work full-time, care for my family, and do school work on my schedule.
​
I still have a lot to learn in the communications field, especially in our current digital climate. A decade ago, social media was in its infancy and not nearly the powerhouse it is today. I hope to learn different ways to deliver effective messaging through the new platforms that have changed our culture over the past decade. Learning these new skills and earning a master’s degree will offer professional growth, new employment opportunities and give me a competitive gain in this ever-changing job market.
​
My journey as a communication scholar is not yet complete, and I hope it is never-ending. My wish is to continue to have a thirst for growth and an endless yearning to learn. I am optimistic that my journey will continue to open doors to more possibilities.