Comments – End Of The Semester

http://sh04090.wordpress.com/2013/12/03/topic-of-the-week-end-of-the-semester/

Shauntel,

Like you, I really enjoyed all of the guest speakers. Throughout my college career, I feel that not many classes have offered guest speakers. This class was the opposite, which was extremely refreshing and interesting. Also, I am not a major fan of the Groundswell textbook, but I did enjoy reading the Customer Service textbook. In general, textbooks can be difficult to read because at times, the content is very lackluster. However, Customer Service kept my attention.

-Bree Haggard

http://rhianaelyssa.wordpress.com/2013/12/02/semester-reflection/

Rhiana,

You said, “I have a lot of upper level public relations classes next semester and I know that I will be able to use the skills that I have learned (social media monitoring, calendars, SEO) in many of my other classes before I graduate in May.” It may seem insignificant, but I think it’s wonderful that this class was truly worthwhile. There’s nothing worse than finding that your class won’t even be applicable in the future. I agree that while the assignments were time-consuming, there was reasoning behind each one. I definitely learned a lot throughout the course as well.

-Bree Haggard

End Of The Semester

My highs were particular assignments such as the Twitter Scavenger Hunt and weekly blogs as well as the guest speakers. I really enjoyed writing a blog post every week. This course required a lot of writing, which was time-consuming. However, as a communications major, writing is part of the job description, so I really appreciated the opportunity to exercise my writing skills on a weekly basis. Also, I was extremely pleased at the amount of guest speakers offered throughout the semester. There were more guest speakers throughout the semester alone versus my entire college career. I feel that guest speakers are fresh and exciting. It’s always interesting to hear another individual’s advice and success story. My low was the Groundswell textbook. Unlike the Customer Service textbook, this particular textbook was not interesting to read. I would suggest a new textbook for next semester…possibly another one from Peter Shankman.

If I could incorporate any change into the course, it would be a video assignment. Ultimately, I’m a Multimedia Communications – Information Emphasis major, so this assignment stems from my love of video, editing, filming, reporting, etc. It would be a really cool assignment to create a video about social media or Public Relations or PRSSA or our client. It could be a commercial for our client. It could be a general overview of the impact of social media. This would expose more Public Relations students to the entire video making process and the life of a reporter, which could help them understand the relationship between Public Relations professionals and reporters.

This might seem like a “DUH!” point, but there is actually a lot of thought that goes into the tweets/status updates posted by various companies on social media. I have learned that most likely, a picture on Instagram or a tweet on Twitter has a definite purpose. Also, something as insignificant as a Vine by a particular company can start a movement. If a company correctly utilizes social media, it can receive thousands of retweets, favorites, shares, and more. In addition, I’ve learned that while social media can do wonderful things, it can also greatly hurt a company, even if the mistake is as minor as the wrong font choice. Biggest Lesson Of All – social media is powerful!

Comments – Give Thanks

http://rhianaelyssa.wordpress.com/2013/11/18/what-i-am-thankful-for/

Rhiana,

I’m extremely thankful for my mother as well. She is even more than a mother to me. She is a best friend. I’m always so happy to find other daughters that feel the same about their mother. Also, it is so cool that you found a life changing book. I like books that offer a different perspective and improve my life. Happy Thanksgiving!

-Bree Haggard

http://shannonwanco.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/10-things-im-thankful-for-this-thanksgiving/

Shannon,

Like you, I’m also thankful for the Office of Admissions. Technically, I’m not employed by the department; I’m a Southern Ambassador (campus tour guide). But the Happy Hardwood folks are some of the nicest people on campus! I always love walking into Lewis Hall. Happy Thanksgiving!

-Bree Haggard

Give Thanks – Breaking Bad

Currently, I am completely and totally and absolutely and utterly obsessed with Breaking Bad. Although the television show has already ended, I watch the series on Netflix (I AM SUPER THANKFUL FOR NETFLIX). While I am EXTREMELY grateful for the obvious things in my life (family, friends, food, water, clothing, shelter), I am also thankful that Breaking Bad has entered my life. Here are the ten Breaking Bad related things that I am thankful for:

1. I am extremely thankful for the stellar acting performances by each actor and actress on the show. Each character, no matter how large of a role, is extremely important to the story as a whole. Although Bryan Cranston’s Walter White character is the main character, the side characters are equally as interesting. Also, for the first time, I really enjoy watching a “sinful/morally wrong” show and rooting for characters that have done bad things.

2. I am extremely thankful for the cinematography of the show. As a Multimedia Communications major, I really appreciate when a television show pays special attention to the filming and editing process. The show plays with color particularly making the desert scenes look even more red and orange. Also, the framing of each shot is unparalleled. I especially love these POV moments: http://www.wired.com/underwire/2012/01/breaking-bad-pov/.

3. I am extremely thankful for the science lessons. If Walter White had been my chemistry teacher, then I might have actually liked science.

4. I am extremely thankful for the excellent writing on the show. Each episode is always left on a cliffhanger especially season finales. There is never a dead episode, which is basically an episode to pass time because the writers have run out of story ideas. The content is constantly fresh and innovative. The actors and actresses present the writing beautifully. Although it sounds like a major stretch to say that Walter White went from beloved science teacher with cancer to major drug dealer, you never doubt any piece of the puzzle. Honestly, there is never one second that I am bored with the plot line.

5. I am extremely thankful for the funny moments in the show. Typically, the show is extremely tense and dramatic. Yet, every now and again, there are really funny moments including most scenes with Bob Odenkirk’s Saul Goodman character, Walter Jr. eating breakfast, and any scene involving Skinny Pete and Badger.

6. I am extremely thankful for the music and sound effects on the show. For any project, the audio is a main element that moves the story forward. The selection of songs has been the perfect accompaniment to each shot. Some stand-out songs include “Crystal Blue Persuasion” by Tommy John, “Windy” by The Association, and “Major Tom” by Gale Boetticher.

7. I am extremely thankful that the show received the recognition that it deserved. Breaking Bad received nominations for multiple award shows, and ultimately, the show took home the grand prize on several occasions. The show’s cast including Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, and Anna Gunn won awards as well.

8. I am extremely thankful for Walter Jr. and his love of breakfast. It is almost a running joke throughout the series. It provides a nice comedic relief at times as well. Here is a link to an article that lists every single thing that Walter Jr. ate on the show: http://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/every-single-thing-that-walt-jr-eats-for-breakfast-on-breaking-bad.

9. I am extremely thankful for Aaron Paul. Read these articles and you’ll love Aaron Paul, too:

http://mashable.com/2013/09/29/20-reasons-we-love-aaron-paul/

http://www.buzzfeed.com/daves4/reasons-why-aaron-paul-should-be-your-favorite-act

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/07/aaron-paul-is-awesome_n_3689180.html

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mackenziekruvant/aaron-paul-loves-his-wife-makes-us-want-to-die-of-envy

10. I am extremely thankful for Bryan Cranston. Why? He was Walter White. Enough said.

Comments – Shopping With Your Phone

http://sh04090.wordpress.com/2013/11/11/topic-of-the-week-shopping-with-your-phone/

Shauntel,
Like you, I also use Groupon to search for money-saving deals. Also, I check reviews from YouTube and random beauty blogs before purchasing cosmetic items. This prevents me from wasting money. However, I do try to research certain products before my shopping trips. By doing this, I avoid waiting on Internet connection for the mobile applications as well as standing idly in the middle of aisles. In addition, it decreases my time inside the store.
-Bree Haggard

http://lb03385.wordpress.com/2013/11/13/shopping-with-your-phone/

Lindsey,
My client, McDonald’s, does have an app, but unfortunately, it is not as highly reviewed as Burger King’s. It has the basic features – Restaurant Locator, Nutrition Information, Careers, Promotions, and Contact Us. However, I would love to see McDonald’s offer a Rewards Program like Burger King or even a feature to purchase meals. The reviews for McDonald’s app are terribly low. Since Burger King is one of the company’s competitors, McDonald’s needs to start making improvements.
-Bree Haggard

Shopping With Your Phone

Whether I am shopping or completing any other activity, I always keep my phone nearby. Although I do not receive a large amount of text messages or phone calls, it is convenient as well as almost comforting to have access to my phone. I use my phone for several reasons including keeping in touch with contacts, searching the Internet, browsing my Twitter feed, taking pictures/video, and utilizing my mobile applications. According to the article, I am in the Checking Customer Reviews category. Especially for cosmetic items, I like to check customer reviews online to ensure that I do not waste money on poor items. Occasionally, I will send a text message or call someone while shopping. However, I prefer to wait until after I’m finished shopping to ensure that I can give my full attention to the person. I don’t use social networks or compare product prices while shopping. I don’t have any mobile applications for any particular stores on my phone. However, I do have two shopping related applications – Groupon and Hautelook. Both of these shopping websites offer major money-saving deals on various items. I don’t typically buy anything off of these websites, but it’s entertaining to browse the items.

My client, McDonald’s, does have several mobile applications. It has an application for multiple countries around the world. In addition, it even offers a McPlay application (a kid friendly gaming application) and a GM Coach’s Playbook (a reference guide to assist in coaching and mentoring McDonald’s General Managers). Unfortunately, the McDonald’s USA application has extremely poor reviews. It offers basic features including Restaurant Locator, Nutrition Information, Careers, Promotions, and Contact Us. I really like the unique Careers feature, which allows future employers to check for job openings. Also, all of the other features appear to be quite helpful. However, customers are very disappointed in the usefulness of the application specifically the Restaurant Locator feature. The phrase “i’m not lovin’ it” appeared several times in the Reviews section. Hopefully, McDonald’s can make improvements because mobile applications are used by most customers.

Comments – Moms And Social Media

http://ravenreneaeblog.wordpress.com/2013/11/04/moms-on-social-media/

Raven,
I totally agree with you on the fact that it could be difficult for Coca-Cola to target moms. My client, McDonald’s, has the same problem, since it is also a contributor to obesity. However, McDonald’s recently partnered with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to offer healthier menu items. The plan is to promote vegetables and fruits instead of fries as well as water instead of milk and juice. If Coca-Cola did the same, then there would be a better chance for the companies to target moms.

-Bree Haggard

http://prprep1.wordpress.com/2013/11/05/moms-social-media/

Lauren,
I was not surprised either to learn that moms are constantly utilizing social media. Although a mom’s workload is heavy, I think social media is an escape. It is their “fun time,” which is probably why moms are always hooked to their social media accounts. Also, I love your ideas for Best Western specifically the Family Fun Pinterest board! As you said, if Best Western could offer discount to surrounding attractions or even to the hotel, moms would be one of the company’s top customers. Wonderful post!

-Bree Haggard

Moms And Social Media

Currently, McDonald’s audience is very broad and not necessarily focused on mothers. The choices on the company’s menu isn’t extremely healthy, which can deter mothers from choosing the company for meals. Recently, the company did partner with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to promote healthier options on the menu. Instead of milk and juice, the company will encourage water. Instead of French fries as a side item, the company will encourage fruits and vegetables. This plan is in effect to fight childhood obesity. With this new marketing strategy, McDonald’s could tap into the mothers and young children demographic. According to the article, mothers are very receptive to company advertising. McDonald’s could release new commercials of children eating the new and improved Happy Meal with their mothers/family. Also, the company could start a hashtag on Twitter to start a conversation with mothers to see what mothers expect from McDonald’s. McDonald’s utilizes Twitter and Facebook on a daily basis. Out of all of the various social media platforms, McDonald’s uses both of those the most often. In my opinion, Twitter and especially Facebook are the most used by moms as well. The article also stated that mothers are more likely to post comments and provide feedback. In addition, McDonald’s menu items are extremely inexpensive. For moms on-the-go, McDonald’s could market itself as the perfect fast food restaurant to quickly pick up cheap meals for the entire family. If McDonald’s could receive more positive reviews from customers, mothers would follow the crowd. According to the article, mothers are more likely to make a purchase based on social media recommendations.

Comments – Halloween

http://ravenreneaeblog.wordpress.com/2013/10/29/halloween-is-almost-here/

Raven,

As a child, I dressed up as Tinker Bell for Halloween too! It was a fabulous costume. That’s awesome that your brother coordinated his costume to match yours. Regarding pumpkin design templates, I agree that Georgia Southern University should continue to release templates and other companies should follow its lead. It’s the perfect opportunity to put a public relations spin on a well-known holiday. Also, as you said, if the companies linked the templates to social media, there would be little hassle in the download process. In addition, pictures of customers’ pumpkins could be shared on social media.

-Bree Haggard

http://lb03385.wordpress.com/2013/10/29/happy-halloween/

Lindsey,

My boyfriend and I also carved pumpkins this past weekend! I haven’t carved a pumpkin in multiple years. The whole process of carving a pumpkin is a ton of fun – from getting your hands slimy digging out the insides of a pumpkin to creating a design for the face to actually seeing the pumpkin fully finished.  It’s a classic Halloween tradition that I really enjoy. Also, both of your pumpkins look excellent!

-Bree Haggard

Halloween

 

I don’t completely consume myself with the spirit of Halloween, but I think it’s fair to say that I really enjoy Halloween festivities – costumes, pumpkins, and scary movies. My all-time favorite Halloween costume is Cinderella. She is my favorite Disney Princess, and with my blonde hair, I like to think that we closely resemble one another. The costume was very elaborate. I definitely carved pumpkins as a child. My brother and I (with assistance from my mother) would carve pumpkins every Halloween. I hadn’t carved a pumpkin in several years until this past weekend when my boyfriend and I carved one (see the picture above). The whole process of carving a pumpkin is a ton of fun – from getting your hands slimy digging out the insides of a pumpkin to creating a design for the face to actually seeing the pumpkin fully finished. After reliving the joys of pumpkin carving, I will never skip another year.

I am absolutely in favor of Georgia Southern University providing pumpkin design templates to the community and students. It is an excellent way to remain in the forefront of the community’s mind as well as show respect for the school. As residents drive through town, it’s nice to see the Georgia Southern University logo displayed everywhere. It’s a really cool twist on the normal pumpkin face. The official Georgia Southern University website asks participants to take a picture of their pumpkin and send it to the Marketing and Communications Department or upload the picture to the True Blue website. I hope the administration takes it a step further and posts the pictures to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

I think only certain companies should provide pumpkin design templates of their logos to the public. For instance, individuals would probably carve my client’s, McDonald’s, logo on their pumpkin. The “M” arches would not be hard to create for some die-hard customers. However, I would not recommend providing templates of hamburgers or French fries. First, that would be difficult to create. Second, I don’t see individuals liking that idea. The logo would be the only pumpkin design template that I would recommend. It’s a fun way for companies to advertise. For other companies, it really depends on certain factors specifically the popularity of the company as to whether or not they should provide pumpkin design templates.