Communication Studies Department
Volume 3
December 2015
THE MEDIUM A quarterly newsletter serving Wilkes University students, faculty, alumni, and friends.
Taking ‘Thank You’ to the next level Kihinga George meets his Embrace a Child Friends By: Rachel Leandri
After 18 months of trip planning, a 17-hour plane ride, and 7,688 miles later, Wilkes University students of Zebra Communications were united with a young individual they have been longing to meet for quite some time. Kihinga George, a Tanzanian native, orphaned by the AIDS virus at a very young age, has been provided with clothes to wear, a roof to sleep under, and most importantly, the opportunity to receive an education through the PR planning and fundraising of the Embrace A Child in Tanzania account team. Now 21 years old and graduated from high-school, Kihinga had arranged to grace both Wilkes and the Zebra students especially with his presence for a 20-day visit this past October.
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Pictured above are some of the Embrace A Child Zebra team members with Kihinga George at Hillside Farms. From left: Emily Kramer, Annelise Prywara, Kihinga George, Rachel Leandri, Amanda Kornak, Justin Topa and Nicole Zukowski
Justin Topa Wins PRSSA’s Foster Award for Excellence in PR By: Jenna Colleran-Geiger For the second time in three years, a Wilkes public relations student has received a highly competitive national PRSSA scholarship. Justin Topa, senior Communication Studies major, was named the winner of the 2015 Lawrence G. Foster Award for Excellence in Public Relations at the recent Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) national convention held in Atlanta, GA This leadership award, which includes a $1,500 scholarship, is given annually in recognition of the students’ academic excellence and their demonstrated commitment to ethical decision-making in professional public relations practice. Page 1
A Dean’s List student, Justin has dual concentrations in Organizational/PR and Rhetoric with minors in marketing and women’s and gender studies. He is the current co-chair of the Board of Zebra Communications. He is also President of the Wilkes University chapter of PRSSA and co-editor of Life, Arts and Entertainment for the award winning campus newspaper, The Beacon. Justin is also completing a marketing and promotions internship with the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre. The Foster Award was established by Pennsylvania State University’s College of Communications and PRSSA chapter in honor of their late alum, Larry Foster who served many years as Corporate Vice
President of Public Relations for Johnson and Johnson. In addition to being nominated by Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall, faculty advisor for the Wilkes University PRSSA chapter, Justin had to submit an essay focusing on his experience with ethical decision-making and leadership in pubic relations. “It’s not only a great feeling to gain recognition for my hard work, but also to be able share this recognition with Wilkes University—the place I call home— makes it all the more rewarding And, I share the honor with Wilkes PRSSA members who I consider family,” said Justin.
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Communication Studies Department
Beacon attends Conference
December 2015
WCLH Hosts Stop the Hate Day
By: Gabby Glinski
On October 1, a group of students from The Beacon attended the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation’s Student Journalist & College Newspaper Workshop in Harrisburg. The students: Toni Pennello, sophomore; Elyse Guziewicz, sophomore; Alyssa Mursch, junior; Gabby Glinski, junior; Eric Casey, senior; Mandy Sickles, senior; and Assistant Professor Dr. Kalen Churcher attended several different sessions at the workshop to improve the overall experience and quality of student journalism, while meeting students from other colleges. Topics on the itinerary included ‘What should we write about?’, ‘What makes a good video/photo report?’ and ‘You’re libel to get into a jam.’
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Photo Credit: Rebecca Voorhees
Pictured above is WCLH Program Director and communications studies senior, Markeata White. She was the first speaker at WCLH’s Stop the Hate, Stop the Violence event. She wanted to raise awareness on all forms of violence.
PRSSA Members Host George Pawlush for Healthcare PR Workshop By: Justin Topa In September, Wilkes University’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America, or PRSSA, invited George Pawlush to host a workshop. Pawlush, a PR professional who boasts more than 30 years of experience, taught students about healthcare PR and gave insight into the changes that the public relations field has seen in recent years. The Wilkes graduate also serves as a member of the Wilkes University Board of Trustees. Pictured, from left to right: Nicole Zukowski, chapter vicepresident, George Pawlush, Jane Elmes-Crahall, chapter adviser, Amanda Kornak, treasurer, and Colleen O’Callaghan, member. Page 2
Photo Courtesy: Justin Topa
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Nine Communication Studies Students Gain Experience at Fall Internships By: Cara Basile
Internships are an important factor when it comes to job seeking, especially as Communication Studies majors. Nine of the departments’ students landed position as interns for the fall semester. Justin Topa, Nicole Zukowski, Markeata White, Jennifer Magnotta, James Jaskolka, Mandy Stickles, Jenna Geiger, Amanda Fulk, and Cara Basile hope to use these internships to further their experience and knowledge in their specific fields. Between the nine, there are a variety of positions mixed between public relations, broadcasting, and journalism. Amanda Fulk and Cara Basile are working with the head of the public relations department at
Boscov’s serving the four regional stores in Wilkes-Barre, Hazelton, Scranton, and Pottsville. Fulk said, “I hope to learn what it takes to manage four stores from a public relations perspective and how to maintain professional relationships.” The two are using their skills to write press releases and work on projects, specifically for non-profit organizations. So far, Amanda and Cara have worked on one of Boscov’s largest non-profit promotional events, “Friends Helping Friends.” Justin Topa is the Marketing and Promotions Intern with The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Wilkes-Barre. Justin spends his time working with organizations that aid families, at-risk children, or others who have limited access to performing
arts to be able to come to the center to enjoy shows. One of the largest rewards he is taking from this experience is the satisfaction of helping the community. “There’s no better feeling than to be able to use your set of skills to help enrich the lives of those around you,” Topa said. Nicole Zukowski has been given the opportunity to work with Geisinger Health Plan as a Marketing Intern. “I came into this internship with an open mind and I’m hoping to discover what I want or don’t want in my career,” Zukowski stated. While learning the ropes of sales, she is also assisting the small business and broker departments. Nicole says this facility is surrounded with positive energy
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Meeting Kihinga George (Cont.) Continued from page 1 Students who worked directly with EAC sponsoring Kihinga over the last 6 years were able to spend quality, one-onone time with him throughout his first-ever trip to America. Giving him a taste of American food and desserts, shops and clothing, and our culture’s idea of fun, Kihinga was immersed full force into the U.S. lifestyle of a college student. Marcus Leaf, senior communication studies major and member of Zebra who worked on the EAC account team for two years, felt this journey with Kihinga was nothing short of a humbling experience. “Taking the time that we did to help out Kihinga and the others was worth every minute by being able to physically meet him and to see for myself how a focused young man is bettering his life because of our doing.” By the end of the trip, students of Zebra could tell you how much Kihinga loves French fries and chicken fingers, how much he dislikes ketchup, and how he learned how to tie his very own tie within two minutes flat. What they may also tell you is that they may have never imagined just how rewarding and meaningful Kihinga’s visit truly was.
Pictured from left: Amanda Kornak , Kihinga George, Martha Josiah, and Justin Topa holding a handmade map of Tanzania given to Zebra from Kihinga and Martha.
“I learned a lot hanging out with Kihinga for those few days,” said Amanda Kornak, co-manager of the EAC account team. “I always knew we were making a difference for him and the other children we’ve been sponsoring but I never realized how much.” Not only has Zebra inspired Kihinga to take on life with a positive attitude, but also influenced him to apply to a Tanzanian university in the hopes of pursing a college education. Now accepted and starting in a couple weeks, Kihinga plans to take what he has learned from college studies in order to help benefit his small village in Africa.
Each member of the EAC account team is extremely honored to have been a part of this journey especially being given the opportunity to meet Kihinga and form a true friendship with him. Saying their goodbyes to Kihinga, students were genuinely gratified in the sense that they met and communicated with someone face-to-face whose life has changed forever solely because of their contributions. Since his return to Tanzania, the students and Kihinga have been in touch via Facebook and are eagerly awaiting to see what he accomplishes in his future education and onwards. Page 3
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Zebra Hosts Tasty Fundraiser for Salvation Army By: Kim Hein and Annelise Przywara
Zebra Communications, raised $85 for the local Salvation Army at a joint fundraiser held at Moe’s Southwest Grille and Hoopla! Frozen Yogurt on Friday, November 20, 2015. Moe’s donated 15% of the profits to Salvation Army and Hoopla! Donated 20% when customers presented the coupon at checkout. Overall, the turnout for Zebra’s fundraiser was high, according to Moe’s manager. “The fundraiser was very simple to plan and didn’t cost us anything,” said Colleen O’Callaghan, Salvation Army account member. “We were just responsible for advertising and promoting the event through press releases and flyers around campus. It was also really great that the event was a point fundraiser with Hoopla!,” O’Callaghan said. Planning is underway for a second event, which will involve the Red Kettle.
Members of the Salvation Army account team buy frozen yogurt for their fundraiser. Pictured from left: Annelise Przywara, Rachel Leandri, Colleen O’Callaghan and Kim Hein. The Zebra account team will hold a “Salvation Army Showdown” the week of December 7-11 in which different sports teams and campus clubs will challenge each other to raise the most money while ringing the bell in the lobby of the SUB. Zebra will participate in the challenge and is looking to hold a bake sale in conjunction with the day they are doing the bell ringing. All profits from the bake sale also go towards the Christmas Red Kettle drive. This is Zebra’s 12th year serving the
Internships (Cont.)to her advantage is continuing to grow Continued from page 3
which helps to sufficiently get the job done. Two students, Markeata White and Jennifer Magnotta, are completing their internships in the broadcasting field at the local WBRE TV station. Although involved with the same network, Markeata and Jennifer’s roles are slightly different. Magnotta is working closely with the reporters by observing their day-to-day duties. She also had the chance to record herself reading the C-Block of the news which was a rewarding experience, especially with her practice with the clubs here at Wilkes. “I understand how to use the information I learned in classes and fine tune my technical skills practiced at Wilkes Now,” Magnotta said. On the other hand, White has been doing producer work by writing copies for the 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM newscasts. This is the second time Markeata has been at WBRE for an internship and
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her network. As Markeata has much experience within WBRE she is still looking to learn more to excel in other areas. “I hope to sharpen my news writing and storytelling skills,” White said. James Jaskolka is working for our very own Wilkes Marketing Communication department as the public relations intern. James is involved in tasks such as writing news releases, media advisories, and collecting fact sheets. Although he is hoping to build his PR skills even more, there are also some perks to the job as he was able to play with a puppy in order to write a feature story on a psychological service dog. “I love the work there, and the environment created. Everyone is very hardworking, but it's in a friendly, relaxed and creative atmosphere,” Jaskolka said. Jenna Geiger is taking a slightly different road with her public relations skills in the sports atmosphere with the Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins. “I have become so much more fluent in hockey lingo and terminology that it has become
Salvation Army of Wilkes-Barre and participating in the Christmas Red Kettle Campaign. Over the past 11 years, Zebra has raised for $20,000 for the local nonprofit organization. This year the account team’s goal is to raise $1,000 and place amongst the top volunteer bell ringers. On Monday, December 14th, Zebra will announce the Salvation Army Showdown group that raised the most money. The winning Showdown group will receive a basket of movie tickets, gift cards and donated items. a sport I genuinely enjoy and I’m glad to be a part of this team,” said Geiger. She has been doing a variety of tasks in preparation for the hockey games such as working with the media throughout the night. Jenna also updates home/away player stat sheets, assists in making media kits, and researches the opposing teams for game previews and recaps. Last, Mandy Stickles is interning with Happening Magazine as a writer/editor. Mandy writes articles about local events within Northeastern, PA, along with editorials that are placed in the magazine. She had the opportunity to work on an assignment on a local business man who creates local monopoly and trivia games. The one aspect Stickles is taking from her experience is to not be afraid to take charge. “Deadlines do not wait for anyone, no matter what. Hard work and dedication is what gets the job done,” Stickles learned. It’s not too soon to begin thinking in terms of an internship for spring or summer.
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
The Colonels of Comm. Studies: Annelise Przywara By: Taylor Ryan
Annelise Przywara is a junior Communications Studies major with a minor in Management here at Wilkes University. Annelise currently holds concentrations both in Strategic Communications and Broadcast Production. She is originally from Pottsville, PA where she attended Pottsville Area High School. In Communication Studies, Annelise is known was a very smart, hard working, opinionated student. She is currently a Zebra Board member and also holds the position as the Director of Wilkes Now. Annelise was impressive as soon as she came onto campus. In fact, within days of starting as a freshman she was selected as co-anchor of Wilkes Now. She has been able to make a name for herself, and did so fairly quickly because of her work ethic and natural leadership ability. Looking back at the importance of her family, Annelise acknowledges that she has always been taught to be a woman with a voice and an opinion. This driven young woman has never been afraid to voice her opinion and has stayed true to her own beliefs. All of these characteristics have led her to have a true passion for politics. Growing up in a home where politics were very openly discussed and where she expected to be involved in our country’s government, Annelise started forming her own opinions and soon became very passionate about those opinions. Annelise identifies as a Republican, which is no surprise to her since she was raised in a very conservative household. When asked about the influence her family had on her, she said, “It was definitely my upbringing that had the biggest influence on the development of my political opinions. My parents never forced me to be a part of the conversation; however I would listen to them talk. After several conversations with my parents, I came to share the same viewpoints and opinions as they did.” Having grown up knowing that her opinion mattered, Annelise developed a very natural ability to lead and also to persuade. Politics for her was something that became not only interesting, but was a way that she could identify a possible
Photo Courtesy: Annelise Przywara
career direction. Annelise would love to be able to tie together her political interest and her public relations skills. “I could see myself working in some type of Political PR or on a campaign as either a spokesperson or event planner,” she said. I asked Annelise if there was any person in the field that she looks up to, or aspires to be like. She replied, “I really look up to Dana Perino, former White House Press Secretary under George W. Bush. As the press secretary she was primarily responsible for briefing the President for press conferences. I think this would be an awesome job.” She then added with a laugh, “Plus I’d have my own Secret Service guys.” Annelise had her first taste of real politics this summer where she worked at Pennsylvania’s Representative Mike Tobash’s District Office, as a Constituent Outreach Specialist. He is of the 125th District of Pennsylvania. During her summer job she was able to gain hands on experience for what it would be like working in the field of politics. “This job gave me a little bit of insight, and allowed me to get a feel for things in
more of the political field,” she said. Annelise still has some time to figure things out, and is not completely set on the political route. Even if she decided on a different career path, politics will always be something she holds a passion for. Politics, among various other things is something that Annelise feels very strongly about and is very open with her beliefs. Since she was able to have her own opinion starting at a young age, she now feels confident voicing her opinions and continues to be informed on various issues. Annelise discussed the importance of students her age staying involved in the upcoming 2016 presidential election. “Whoever is elected will be in office during our years either finishing school or entering the professional work environment. In the past presidential policies have affected our families; however, for the first time the policies will be affecting us directly as we begin our adult life. It is also a great time for our generation to become more politically engaged and to understand and be informed about the issues facing the country we live in,” said Annelise. Page 5
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Is Grad School for Me? Communication Studies Alumni Weigh In By: Sarah Bedford and Alyssa Mursch A whirlwind of anxiety, excitement and confusion seems to coincide with the spring semester for junior and senior students. For seniors, they are about to embark on the journey in the real world. And for juniors, they have many daunting decisions ahead of them, not the least of which being: grad school or no grad school? Although there are obvious pros and cons to either path they choose to take, year after year Communication Studies students continue to wrestle with which course of action will be most beneficial to their future. What better people to seek advice from than those that have been in the same position? Many alumni who went through this decision-making process gave us substantial advice, including Andrew Seaman, Kalen Churcher, Jamie Gwynn, Ian Foley, and Anne Yoskoski. These alumni represent a variety of graduate degrees including; Master’s degrees in Investigative Journalism, Human Resources and Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Administration, and Public Administration; a Ph.D. in Mass Communications and Cultural Studies and another on her way to a law degree. Andrew Seaman graduated from Columbia University with a Master’s degree in investigative journalism. One question that many students struggle with is whether to go right after college or to try to find a job that will pay for them to get their graduate degree. “I think that this is very rare,” said Seaman referring to the idea that many students foster of a job paying for their higher education. Jamie Gwynn explained that to him, the cost of his graduate education was not really a point of concern as he didn’t see it as another bill, but rather an investment in his future. “I would not look at the price of grad school when determining to go… It didn’t matter how much I had to Page 6
pay... I would get the return,” he said. “I do not think everyone should go, Kalen Churcher graduated from the but it's important to understand, that while University of Scranton with a Masters in years ago going to high school was the Human Resources norm, and college and Organizational was something “A bachelor’s degree is a Leadership and sought after, prerequisite for many careers today college is earned a Ph.D. from Penn State today. Earning a master’s degree becoming more University in Mass will make a person stand out” of the norm that Communications high school was with a focus in years ago,” Foley ~ Ian Foley Cultural Studies. explained. “A “Don’t get your bachelor's degree Masters because you can’t get a job,” is a prerequisite for many careers today. advised Churcher. “I think it’s better to Earning a Master's degree will make a work for a little while after college to see person stand out, depending on what if you really like what you’re doing.” career and master’s program they seek.” This is the path that Churcher took, All alumni stressed that this is a as she graduated from Wilkes in 1996 decision that varies among different and didn’t go back for her Master’s people. It is a big commitment and degree until 2000. In between that shouldn’t be taken lightly or as a way to time, she explored different jobs, avoid going into the real world. including reporting for the Times Leader. Experience will strengthen a student’s Ultimately, when she went back to school, ability to make this decision, as it will the University of Scranton paid for her teach them what they do like and, more education with a graduate “assistantship”. importantly, what they don’t. Gwynn followed a similar path, As far as what programs to choose if spending two years in inner city Baltimore a graduate degree is in the cards, Seaman at Teach Across America before attending advises becoming more diverse in your University of Pennsylvania’s Masters for studies. Public Administration. “If you have undergraduate “You don’t want to go just to go to background [in a communications grad school,” he explained. For Gwynn, concentration] you might want to go to planning things out by starting at your end grad school in a more specific field that goal is the way to figure out the steps incomplements that. You'd have to know between. “Backwards plan it,” he advised. what you want to focus on," said Seaman. Ian Foley recognizes that grad school "I wouldn't encourage two degrees in the is not for everyone, but for some it might same field." be the obvious transition, as it was for Gwynn and Foley also agreed on him. this point, as they both felt it ultimately “I decided to go right out of college depends on a student’s final career goals because that is the easiest time to just and not the Communication Studies continue my schooling from one degree concentration obtained in undergrad to another,” Foley said, as he is attending degrees. Rowan University for Higher Education “It depends what your ultimate goal Administration immediately following his is; if you have a specific goal, tailor your graduation from Wilkes in 2014. interest to help you out in the future. If Although Churcher advised gaining you don't know, it's definitely good to hands on experience prior to continuing further what you do [in communication your education, she and Foley emphasized studies] and find out,” advised Yoskoski, that a Master’s degree will give you an who is currently studying law at extra edge to make you stand out in your Villanova. field.
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Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Students Inducted into Wilkes PRSSA Chapter By: Nicole Zukowski
In early November, Zebra Communications inducted new members and reinstated past members into the Wilkes University chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America. PRSSA allows undergraduate students access to a large PR job bank, professional networking, scholarships and conferences to stay up-to-date with the happenings in the PR field. (From bottom to top:) Row One: Taylor Ryan, Rachel Leadenri, Evan Willey, Jennifer Magnotta, Amanda Fulk, Nicole Zukowski (Vice President), Meghan Burns. Row Two: Ashley Evert (Secretary), Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall (Advisor), Adam Lubas (Historian), Annelise Przywara, Marcus Leaf, Colleen O’Callaghan, Kim Hein, Justin Topa (Chapter President). Absent from photo: Amanda Kornak (Treasurer) and Vicki Mayk (Professional Advisor)
Photo Credit: Eric Casey
Justin Topa (Cont.) Continued from page 1 Topa finds that passion plays an integral role in the success of those within the public relations field. “Passion paves the way for excellence,” he wrote in the award-winning essay. “A strong admiration for the work you’re completing leads to stronger focus, breeds transparency and honesty, and creates motivation for going above and beyond for the organization you’re working with”. Dr. Elmes-Crahall said, “Since his first year in Zebra, Justin has been one of our most effective leaders. He has managed several of our most successful accounts. It is also very gratifying to realize two of our Zebra students have been selected for national PRSSA scholarships.’ she added. (In 2013 Dominick Costantino won a Betsy Plank Scholarship from PRSSA.)
Congratulations, Justin!
Photo Courtesy: Justin Topa
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Communication Studies Department
December 2015
The Colonels of Communication Studies: James Jaskolka By: Gabby Glinski
James Jaskolka, senior, is very well known on the Wilkes campus for his work with The Beacon. However, there is a side of James that many do not know. James changed majors a couple of times before choosing Communication Studies. As a freshman, he entered Wilkes as a Business major. Everything that James wanted out of Business was basically Communications and PR. He originally wanted to open and operate a music venue. During his sophomore year, James flirted between a Communication Studies Journalism concentration and English, trying to figure out which fit better. He found Communication Studies was more practical and English to be complementary to it. He always enjoyed writing, even from a young age, ”It was the only thing that ever felt natural,” he explained. James has concentrations in Strategic Communication/PR and Multimedia Journalism. He also has minors in English and Women's and Gender Studies. Along with his academic responsibilities,
has been Editor-in-Chief of The Beacon for two years. He recalls taking on the position at the end of his sophomore year. There was a snow day and the former Editor-in-Chief couldn’t come to the office. James worked hard to publish the issue himself. “I was the person who was putting in a lot of the work, even as a sophomore,” James cared about the paper and wanted others to as well. Before James became Editor-in-Chief , The Beacon’sstaff consisted of ten members; now there’s approximately three times as many. Since becoming Editor-in-Chief , James states The Beacon h as grown. The content became better and the paper’s reputation was brought into a positive light. “I think we are trying to do edgier, more progressive content, stuff that’s happening in the real world,” the Editor- in- Chief shared. Though James is highly regarded on campus as an ambitious student and Editor-in-Chief of The Beacon, there is more to him than what meets the eye. When James was 12 yearsold, he was introduced to music. A couple of older
Photo Courtey: James Jaskolka
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friends took him to see their band play. James instantly wanted to start making music. He started playing the drums and learned guitar and bass. He started his first band when he was a sophomore in high school. With the band, he went on his first tour. That was the moment James realized he wanted to do that forever. At the end of high school, James started writing under the pseudonym of B etter Days. He originally formed B etter Days to be a solo performance band however he started playing with Elliot DeMesa, Wilkes junior, as of January. James used his passion for music and his writing skills to write for several websites. In January of this year, he started writing for Funeral Sounds,a Houston based record label company and music blog. He writes feature stories, which highlights people of interest within the music community, and album reviews. This summer, he also started writing for Punk Out, a Philadelphia nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of queer musicians and fans. Currently, James has an internship with Wilkes Marketing Communications as a PR intern. When James was seven, he got shot by an arrow in the leg. He had older friends who were into archery. One told James if he stood there, he bet he could shoot right next to James. “Of course I listened because they were older,” James shared. The arrow hit James in the leg, leaving a scar he still has today. While the scar has faded, the lesson James learned has notbe careful who you trust. When asked to reflect on the best moment of his four years at Wilkes, James couldn’t settle on one moment. However, he stated “Being able to meet people and find a sense of community that I didn’t know was possible was the best thing.” “I regret not getting involved sooner,” James shared when asked what advice he would give to incoming freshman, reflecting on Wilkes’ many clubs and activities. James stated incoming freshman should pay attention to the classes they are taking, and focus on what they need and to not blindly pick classes due to major requirements. James is not sure what he wants to do with his future, however he is determined that it will include making music.
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Wilkes Now Concludes a Successful Semester By: Annelise Przywara
Wilkes Now has had a successful semester under new leadership. The club took on several freshmen members and appointed multiple people to new positions. Annelise Przywara, Director; Colleen O’Callaghan, Assistant Director; and Sam Vedral, Assistant Producer were new to this year’s executive staff. Nicholas Durdan returned for his second year, serving as the show’s Producer. Wilkes Now also designated Jennifer Magnotta, senior, and Amanda Bialek, freshman, as the new co-anchors for the year. In addition, the show selected two new sports anchors, Tom Bordi and River Johnson, who are both freshmen. Auto Talk and Music Guru returned to Wilkes Now; however, this was the first time the segments aired live during the broadcast. Auto Talk provides tips and information about everything automotive from segment host, Zach Benedict. Eric Casey hosted Music Guru, in which he shared his various musical critiques and opinions. A brand new segment, Connect With a Colonel, was developed and debuted for
Pictured above are Amanda Bialek, freshman, and Jennifer Magnotta, senior as the new co-anchors for the year. live shows, along with several other the first time this semester. The segment mock shows and live-to-tape shows. The is hosted by Rachel Leandri and consisted executive staff decided not to rush into of bringing Wilkes alumni into the studio live broadcasts in order to allow time for a one-on-one interview. for members, new and old, to become Though the shows have been timing in acclimated to their new positions. at roughly 20 minutes, as opposed to 30, Next semester, the executive staff has they possess quality content that is well high expectations for the continuance of done and tasteful. progress. Dr. Stine, faculty advisor, said, “This “On behalf of the e-staff, we have been year, the staff and crew of Wilkes Now very pleased with everyone’s work in have done an excellent job of creating a their perspective positions,” said Durdan, show that has great depth of content. The producer. “Our goal next semester is to group works very well together and the gain some new content in the form of shows that have resulted are some of the segments and reporter stories in order to best in recent memory.” hit the 30 minute mark.” Wilkes Now has aired a total of two
Multimedia Journalism Concentration Places Journalism Track in 21st Century Reporting By: Sarah Bedford The Communication Studies department underwent a curriculum change this semester which involved the renaming and reevaluating of the four concentrations. Dr. Kalen Churcher, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, serves as one of the primary professors and advisors for the concentration of Multimedia Journalism, along with Dr. Mark Stine, Associate Professor and Chair of Communication Studies. Churcher explained that the concentration has been adapted to better represent the field of journalism in present day. Students who select Multimedia Journalism can expect to not only develop news writing skills but also adapting
their content for print, broadcast or digital formats. The concentration has been made much broader according to Churcher, with a stronger focus on production than in the past. Courses will even include mobile production and will have something for all communication students, especially those interested in PR and social media. Students in the Multimedia Journalism track will be required to take department core courses totaling 29 credit hours and 6 credits of concentration specific courses, Advanced Multimedia Reporting and Mass Communication Law, as well as an additional 6 communication credits such as Visual Communications, Communication Criticism, or Feature Writing to name a few. Churcher explained that students in the field will have a lot more experience in
“do it yourself mobile journalism” where smartphones will be utilized as to keep up with the changing field. Churcher discussed that while in previous years, students who obtained a journalism concentration tended to stray away from graduate school, given the changing landscape of the field, continuing education isn’t necessarily a bad idea. But, gaining hands on experience is always key. Students in this area of study are able to do so through department cocurriculars such as The Beacon and Zebra Communications. Under the new curriculum, two semesters of cocurriculars are also required. For students who wish to learn more about the Multimedia Journalism Concentration, contact Churcher at kalen. churcher@wilkes.edu. Page 9
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Rhetorical Studies: Analyzing the World Around You By: Zachary Smith
Rhetorical Studies is a concentration in Communication Studies that focuses on the critical analysis of publically communicated messages. Speeches, movies, radio, social media discourse, and television all fall under forms of communication that Rhetorical Studies examines.
Every day we see messages put out from various sources; it has become increasingly easy for misleading or outright false information to be circulated. Taking classes in Rhetorical Studies will help students to wade through messages and figure out fact from what the message is trying to convey. People with a background in this
concentration will be able to provide a deeper insight into the ever evolving world of discourse on social media. Anyone who finds themselves listening carefully and critically to the world around them can benefit from Rhetorical Studies. If you find yourself often unable to take things at face value,
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Strategic Communication is the New Organizational Communication By:Jennifer Magnotta Wilkes University’s Department of Communication Studies recently changed its curriculum, resulting in name changes to the concentrations. Organizational Communication is now Strategic Communication/ Public Relations. Strategic Communication explores how organizations communicate with their publics through public relations, marketing communications, public policy, advertising, persuasion and campaigns. Students who concentrate in Strategic Communication/ Public Relations can expect to learn a range of skills varying from interpersonal skills, writing, speaking, organizing, planning, and handson-experience with real clients. Students focusing in Strategic
Communication/ Public Relations can mix in a minor such as marketing, English, integrative media, and ultimately make themselves more marketable when searching for a job. With a new curriculum and name, new requirements were sure to follow. All students concentrating in Strategic Communication/ Public Relations must satisfy the department core requirements as well as two concentration-specific requirements—COM 302: Fundamentals in Public Relations Writing and COM 303: Organizational Communication. From there, students will choose two courses from their electives— COM 203: Small Group and Team Communication, COM 206: Business and Professional Communication, COM 300: Communication Criticism, COM 301: Persuasion, COM 352: Advanced
Public Relations Campaigns, COM 372: Managing a Public Relations Agency, or COM/CPE 399: Internship. Another new aspect of the new curriculum and name change is that students are now required to take at least 2 semesters of co-curricular involvement, also known as COM 101: Practicum. The obvious for Strategic Communication/ Public Relations would be our very own Zebra Communications, the student-run Public Relations Agency. With this concentration, students are training for careers in business and management with jobs such as a communication specialist, public relations specialist, communication campaign manager, information managers, communication consultants, and event planners.
Graduate School (Cont.) Continued from page 5 Foley further stressed this point by explaining that having a higher degree can lead to salary negotiations, citing a specific example that he witnessed first-hand. “I have one friend I know is making more than another two colleagues because of their Master's degree, despite one having about two years of experience,” he said. Seaman also emphasized the importance of experience, noting that he had 9 internships by the time he graduated from Wilkes. Not only did this help him know what he was interested in, but it also gave him a great deal of work to add to his portfolio. This is not a decision that has a clear Page 10
cut answer, and it takes a great deal of consideration by the student. There are benefits and drawbacks to whatever path a student chooses. Real world experience can help students in discovering where their interests lie, while others that already have a focus in mind may benefit more from continuing their education immediately after undergrad. “I feel that for all the Communications degrees that are out there, to go into a job market and say you have something different will makes you stand out,” said Yoskoski. Overall, these alumni advocated grad school, although when and what you choose to major in may vary among students. Dr. Jane Elmes-Crahall,
professor of Communication Studies, pointed out that about 10 years ago the Department surveyed recent graduates and found that within five years of graduating from Wilkes, more than half of Communication Studies alumni had earned an advanced degree. “We need to update that survey. But we do know that our graduates have been admitted to, and completed, graduate degrees from some of the most selective, respected programs including Syracuse University, the University of Iowa, Penn State University, the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University and Georgetown University Law School,” she added.
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Youngest Employee at Second Largest Operator of Radio Stations Alumni Update: Tyler Thomas, ‘15 By: Evan Willey Easton native, Tyler Thomas, is making a name for himself in his own hometown. Tyler graduated in 2015 from Wilkes University with a major in Communication Studies and a minor in Business Marketing. He graduated in May 2015 and by July 2015 was as an account executive for Cumulus Media, the second largest owner and operator of AM and FM radio stations in the United States. The main stations of Cumulus Media are Cat Country 96.1, the Philadelphia Eagles radio network and WLEV 100.7 FM. They have over 250,000 listeners within both stations. Tyler came to Wilkes University to play football. Tyler played at varsity level all four years. Tyler was also involved with Programming Board. Tyler thought it was important to get involved within his major so he wrote for The Beacon, and was involved with Zebra Communications. Tyler always loved to challenge himself and push new limits, so in his junior year of college he decided to start his own clothing company. The name of this company is Top Shelf Only where he sells a variety of shirts with his logo incorporated within the design. Tyler also made time internships that would help him with his future career. He started his internship journey at WBRE News Station his sophomore year of college. He worked with the sports department where he would go out with the lead anchor and cameraman and film local high school sports. After they successfully filmed their section Tyler
Beacon (Cont.) Continued from page 2
The group of Wilkes students gained an insight on how to take better angles on their news stories to gain more interaction on campus. There were several guest speakers at the workshop, including Julia Hatmaker, Entertainment Leader, and Joe Hermitt,
Photo Courtesy: Tyler Thomas
would help edit the footage. Junior year he interned with Etruscan Press where he worked in the backend, writing emails for them, taking inventory, and working their social media. Lastly, senior year Tyler took his internship location to the next level, he worked with the National Lacrosse League in Manhattan, New York. “This one was my favorite. I was really involved,” said Tyler. Just like many college graduates the job search was a tough one. Tyler sent out about 70 cover letters and resumes to all different companies and heard nothing, but what most college kids don’t have is that Tyler Thomas luck. Tyler accidentally ran into the marketing manager of Cumulus Media at a job fair Cumulus’ was hosting in June. Tyler honestly admitted to never hearing about this company, but wanted to take a chance. By July, Tyler was shadowing an employee at the company, basically a daylong interview. “ I had 1 hour presentation and got great feedback with one of the managers.” said Tyler. After that presentation he meant
Photo Department Lead from PennLive/The Patriot News, who presented examples of their video and photography work to inspire the student attendants to capture news in a different light. Presenter Melissa Melewsky, Media Law Counsel of the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association provided an overview of the legal matters of
with the regional manager who was in charge of Allentown, Wilkes Barre, and Harrisburg. On July 20, Tyler was hired as an account executive for Cumulus Media. Tyler could not stress enough that it is so important to leave a good impression while interviewing. With Tyler’s new job came new responsibilities. The main focus of his job is to work with local businesses and try to consult. He’s an advertiser who writes scripts for digital advertising and promotes events/remotes. He also is in charge of the email based marketing system. Tyler meets with new interested companies and explains the benefits of joining with Cumulus Media. Tyler wants to let the upcoming graduating class know to just get as much experiences as possible. Tyler states, “ The more you have to offer the better you’ll be.” He says just talk with everyone and anything and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone to try new things. He also wants everyone to know when applying for a job you are one of many and that’s what they can hold against you. All in all Tyler is very happy with his new position and Wilkes University is proud to have had him here following his dreams. Tyler at 23 years-old is the youngest employee at Cumulus Media with the next employee being 26. “At the moment I am very happy I work with a great group of supporting people, but I am never going to stand still. I always am going to be looking for more.”
journalism and the first amendment. “I was able to bond with members of the staff that I hadn’t previously spent much time with,” stated Pennello on her experience. “The conference itself was both interesting and informative. It was also nice to meet members of other student newspapers.” Page 11
Communication Studies Department
December 2015
Preparing For the Digital World with Media Production By: Rebecca Filipski
Media production is a part of the new curriculum in the Communication Studies department. It means producing content for radio, television, cable, electronic and digital media. It prepares students for working rapidly in the world of digital media. It also introduces students to the history, economics, regulations, and functions of the radio, television and cable industries. Students in the media production
concentration are required to take COM 220: Introduction to Electronic Media and COM 222: Broadcast Production. Additionally, students in the concentration must complete 6 credits from the following courses: COM 223: The Art of Film, COM 320: Media Management, COM 322: Advanced Video Production, COM 323: Advanced Audio Production, COM 362: Mass Communication Law, and COM/CPE 399: Internship. There are many benefits for students in the Media Production concentration. They learn a variety of skills such as
shooting with a video camera, producing content for TV and radio, video and audio editing, working behind the scenes, and writing scripts for broadcast. Students must participate in two semesters of co-curriculars. The Media production co-curriculars are Wilkes Now, the student run news broadcast or 90.7 WCLH, the campus radio station. If you are interested in the Media Production concentration, you should contact your faculty advisor or Dr. Mark Stine at mark.stine@wilkes.edu
Rhetorical Studies (Cont.) Continued from page 10 and look for evidence in any argument then this is a concentration you might want to look into. Students with a concentration in Rhetorical Studies have gone on to become lawyers, marketing executives, teachers, and speech writers, among others. Those with this background have gone onto graduate school and are known to rise quickly through the ranks of the
business world. Students are required to take two credits worth of co-curriculars. Currently, students may participate in the Beacon, the student award-winning newspaper, Zebra Communications, student-ran PR agency, Speech and Debate and/or WCLH ,student radio station. This focus does require some core requirements? Students with a concentration in Rhetorical Studies will be required to take COM 300 – Communication Criticism
and COM 301- Persuasion. Students must also select two courses from the following: COM 201 – Advanced Public Speaking , COM – 204 Argumentation and Debate, COM 305 – Studies in Public Address, COM – 399 Cooperative Education. If you are interested in the Rhetorical Studies concentration, you should contact your faculty advisor or Dr. Jane ElmesCrahall at jane.elmes@wilkes.edu and/or Dr. Mia E. Briceno at mia.briceno@ wilkes.edu
Congratulations to our December 2015 Graduates! Kayla Bucci
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Markeata White
Jenna Colleran-Geiger