Whose following who?

Until this semester, my use of twitter has remained pretty non-existent. I did not fully understand the point to it at first and found myself bored when scrolling through the site. Comparing it to Facebook, I did not understand. For people who never update their status on Facebook, what is the point to a Twitter? However, lately I log in to Twitter for many reasons. Something I have learned to be very valuable is following The Big 12 Conference No, I am not a die hard college football fan but I do enjoy when our OSU Cowboys are at the top. So lately, when I am not near a television, I log into twitter to receive play by plays of any game, anywhere going on in the Big 12 Conference. It is a great way to keep updated and learn a little more about where Oklahoma State stands. But don’t worry, next week I do plan on attending the OSU/OU Bedlam game in person. Sorry twitter, I just don’t think you would compare to that kind of atmosphere.

Also, music is such a passion of mine and following some of my favorite artists such as Cross Canadian Ragweed, Luke Bryan, Eli Young Band, Miranda Lambert and Lady A keeps me updated on upcoming concerts, events, albums and singles. I enjoy following some of my favorite radio stations in the Stillwater and Dallas/Fort Worth locations to keep in touch with shows arriving in those areas.

Twitter is an increasingly popular social media site and caters to people for both the entertainment and education aspects. In my opinion, it is the fastest way to receive information and current data. I do see it growing extremely large and serving as a main source of news for the public.

Video Blog Critique

Who better to welcome our freshman class to Oklahoma State University than President Burns Hargis? I do enjoy watching videos from him rather than reading his words because I think it more personal. When he recognizes certain people on the OSU campus for their achievements, it seems much more meaningful seeing him speak these words. Of course, he could write a letter or blog to them but posting this on the OSU Web site, makes his words seem more valuable.

Also, viewers can really see the personality and charisma President Hargis shows. Although, this vlog is not very long, people can get an idea of how this man acts. Clearly, he has great public speaking skills and that is evident in this video. After viewing this vlog, I believe I have retained the information Burns Hargis stated better than I would have if I had read it.

However, there are different disadvantages to creating vlogs. In my case, I HATE public speaking and would much rather write my views rather than film them and post them to YouTube for the whole world to see. Also, creating these vlogs is more time consuming and expensive than written blogs.

I think the option of a blog or vlog depends on the individual. Some obtain strengths in writing and others have great communication and speaking skills to get their message out. For President Hargis, I think he is a great speaker and all OSU students love to hear his voice and thoughts. He statements are well thought out and knowledgeable. As for him, he can use vlogs to engage himself with all students on the OSU campus who he may have not been able to reach otherwise.

Let's Just All Stay In College (Extra Credit)

As I approach the midpoint of my junior year in college, I am beginning to take everything a little more seriously. Two and a half years ago, when I entered college, I had no idea how much it would truly change my life. I have met the most amazing friends that I will stay in touch hopefully throughout my entire life, been educated from influential professors, and experienced things some people never will. The memories I will remember from college are definitely priceless. Now, when I see freshman on campus, I really do envy them. The feeling and atmosphere of our campus on a game day are really indescribable. My home away from home in Tri Delta has made a huge impact in my life and changed me in more ways than I could have ever imagined. Oklahoma State is an amazing university and there are some days that are wonderful just being on campus. I can recall snow days, birthdays, date parties, roommates, boyfriends and so much more. I know I have a year and a half to go and some of the best times are yet to come. In a week, I will turn 21! Soon enough, I will be looking for a career and starting a new chapter of my life. I really don’t know how I will feel not being in school anymore. As of May 2012, I will have been in school 17 years!

I know it sounds bad, but I really don’t want to grow up. I catch myself from time to time wanting life to stop right in its tracks and knowing that nothing could be more perfect than it already is. I was sad when graduating high school but college is such a different experience. And in my opinion, graduating college truly defines the moment you become a real adult. It does scare me to think I will officially be on my own. No financial help, no professors, and worst of all, not living in the same town as all of my best friends.

Everyone I know keeps telling me to cherish college for all that it is because it really is the best four years of your life. I plan to think positively and really appreciate everything and everyone I come in contact within the next year and a half. I cannot begin to describe everything I have learned and experienced inside and outside of the classroom but I do know I will leave Oklahoma State a completely changed person for the better than when I came here.