Hello, my name is Deja Jackson! I’m a junior with a Broadcast Journalism major and I’m glad to be a student ambassador for the journalism department.

This opportunity provided me with new ways to get more involved with my college and department. It forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and speak with students from other departments as well as my own. I decided to take this opportunity to help students who are looking to pursue the same degree plan as me and help guide students in the right direction who may be lost and not sure where to turn.

I know a lot of students struggle with picking their major to pursue. But for me, I had some doubts coming in with my major not sure if it was a right fit for me or if it was going to pay enough. However, if you pick a major and you're struggling and you don't enjoy it, change to a different major. But if pick a major and you enjoy it, stick to it because if you find something you love it won’t feel like a job when you graduate; it will be your career. Find something you are passionate about and if you're not sure what your passion is; explore! You’ll never know what's the right fit if you don’t try to find out. That's what I did—I explored! I came in not knowing a single thing about broadcast but I discovered a common interest in the major and many things that compelled me to study more about it.

Another option is to become active in your major by joining groups that will help you improve your résumé. You won't know what to do after graduation if you don't make use of the resources and chances that organizations provide to help you grow. Each organization on campus uniquely benefits you, whether it's to make more friends, create a career, or even engage with leadership, such as the class ambassador program.

My advice is to join as many organizations and programs as possible to obtain both advantages and experience. There are some responsibilities you must take on to help your department flourish, but it is extremely beneficial to you because it gets you out there and more involved with the staff who want to see you succeed outside of school.

 

Written by: Deja Jackson, Mayborn School of Journalism, Student Ambassador