By: Isy Davy

Photo Credit: Malik Gay

Meet Malik Gay, a 2023 graduate of UMBC’s Media and Communication Studies program. After transferring from the University of Hartford, Malik searched for a school that aligned with his athletic and academic goals. What he found at UMBC wasn’t just a degree; it was a supportive, tight-knit community that helped him sharpen his voice, expand his perspective, and explore media as a tool for connection, creativity, and change.

Today, Malik is a Junior Media Buyer at WHITE64, a full-service advertising agency based in Northern Virginia. His role places him at the forefront of campaign execution, collaborating with clients across the DMV area to help them meet strategic advertising goals. It’s a dynamic, fast-paced space where Malik thrives, bringing together data-driven insight and creative thinking to help brands tell the right stories to audiences.

His interest in media didn’t begin after graduation; it was strengthened throughout his time at UMBC. He credits the MCS program for helping him understand the broader impact of media in society and encouraging critical thinking through collaboration and mentorship. “Learning alongside talented peers and being taught by professors who genuinely cared about our success beyond the classroom was invaluable,” Malik shares.

One of the most memorable projects from his time in the program was a media literacy class competition that challenged students to gain as much traction as possible on TikTok in one week. “I may or may not have won!” he jokes. But the real takeaway wasn’t just winning, it was learning how platform algorithms work, creating engaging content, and tapping into trends that resonate with audiences. These are the exact skills he now uses every day in the world of digital media.

That hands-on experience also speaks to a deeper pattern in Malik’s journey: a consistent sense of intention. Malik approaches his work purposefully when managing a group project or strategising with clients. For him, it’s not about producing content just to keep up, it’s about understanding who it’s for, why it matters, and how it can impact.

After graduating, Malik continued to grow personally and professionally by enrolling in UMBC’s Community Leadership Graduate Certificate program. The experience deepened his connection to the Baltimore community and broadened his view of what it means to lead with empathy. “It gave me a fresh perspective on the Baltimore community and reinforced the importance of supporting those around me,” he reflects.

Looking ahead, Malik has his sights set on continued growth, not just within the advertising industry but also in his personal development and community involvement. In the next five years, he hopes to keep evolving in his career, stay curious about new technologies, and give back to others navigating early career challenges. His balance of ambition and community-mindedness makes him a powerful example for current students looking to make a meaningful impact in media.

Malik’s advice is simple but powerful for those still figuring out their path: “Build and nurture relationships within the UMBC community, especially in the MCS department. Your peers and professors are incredible resources, so engage with them, learn from each other, and maintain those connections long after graduation.”

Though still early in his career, Malik has already proven what’s possible when intention meets action. His story reminds us that when used thoughtfully, media can do more than inform or entertain; it can improve lives, build communities, and inspire meaningful change.

By: Rithik Kavanakudy

Photo Credit: Kendall Blunt

Everyone say hi to Josh Gillis, a junior here at UMBC!

For many students, deciding on what major to pursue can be a long trial and error process, but for Josh Gillis, his eyes were set towards Media and Communication Studies. “I decided to focus my strengths in writing,” he elaborates, “and thought it could lead to a solid, stable, and enjoyable career”. With his appreciation for effective communication, MCS appeared not as a generic field of study but as a stepping stone to creating impactful work in our ever-evolving digital world. He hopes to take the skills and knowledge he has acquired through the program in hopes of one day achieving his career goal of starting his own consulting company and being able to run a business – a means of connecting his skills in communication with entrepreneurship.  

Now that Josh is wrapping up his third year here at UMBC, he has leaned his area of study to help further his writing skills and toward the field of technical writing and communication. He says, “Hopefully, I can focus my internship opportunities here” when describing his plans for the future once he graduates. 

When asked about the experience he’s had with MCS, he notes two classes in particular: MCS 355: Social Media: Networking and Mobility and MCS 333: History and Theory of Mass Communication and Media Studies, with which he had with two of his favorite professors, Dr. Snyder and Dr. Loviglio, respectively. “Both of them are super engaging and awesome to work with,” he says. “I love the content presented in both.” He notes that MCS 355 has direct relevance with real-world communications careers and helps develop skills necessary for certain career paths. 

Social media marketing strategy is among his favorite skills and pieces of information that he has picked up over his MCS journey. “And also just general writing skills,” he adds. With his plans to go into the field of technical communication, he has been focusing on improving his skills. “If I want to go into technical writing now, my skills have to be more developed, so working on that has been super great.”

When talking about the MCS program and its importance, he believes that it is an important field for study and that “In a practical sense, everyone needs to know how to communicate effectively, and in an increasingly digital business landscape, studying this field allows some of us to get a headstart.” In an age where content and information are shared through so many mediums, communication is key. 

In addition to pursing MCS, he is pursing a minor in Psychology, a field that compliments MCS well by looking at how people think, interact, and respond to one another and to other stimuli. 

Outside of his academic life, Josh likes to keep himself busy gaining experience with producing media. He casually edits YouTube videos, enhancing the content for his friends who run small channels. Meanwhile, on campus, he currently manages the Instagram page for the UMBC Billiards Club (@umbcbilliards) and will be planning to take over leadership of the club in due time. 

Aside from media, he also works as a manager at Chik-fil-A in Eldersburg. Creating a balance between his academic life and work isn’t the easiest, but he makes it work. “They worked with me so I can fit in around 20 hours a week on weekends,” he says, “and I work full-time on breaks.”

Josh has a variety of ways that he spends his free time, from working on cars to playing video games and working out at the gym. On top of this, he is a pool enthusiast, spending hours of time practicing and playing with his friends, oftentimes in the UMBC Gameroom. 

And for a fun fact? Josh is a big fan of metalcore, a genre of music that combines aspects of heavy metal and hardcore punk. One of his favorite artists to listen to is Breaking Benjamin. “I was top 0.5% of Breaking Benjamin listeners last year,” he exclaims, “0.001% incoming!” 

All in all, Josh Gillis has worked hard to set himself up for success in his future by building up his portfolio of experience and having a clear vision of where he wants to take his career after his expected graduation in May 2026. 

By: Erin Cusick

Photo Credit: Rithik Kavanakudy

From backyard videos in middle school to managing content for organizations, Rithik's creative journey has been anything but ordinary. His passion for making content began early, playing around with video editing just for fun. That curiosity evolved into a deeper appreciation for media, especially during his time as a Media and Communication Studies (MCS) major at UMBC.

Though he once imagined himself pursuing a career in science, Rithik quickly realized that his true interests lay elsewhere. "It was just a high school science phase," he says. What stuck with him, however, was the joy of storytelling and the freedom to create something meaningful and fun, far from the traditional office life he hoped to avoid.

Through courses like MCS 334: Globalization of Media with Professor Yang, Rithik gained a new perspective on media beyond the U.S. He says that the class really opened his eyes to how media shapes and is shaped by global culture. Professors Yang and Anchor became major influences, not just for their teaching styles but for how they made learning engaging and inspiring. 

One of Rithik’s favorite projects was producing TikTok-style videos for MCS 360: Internet Video Production, a class that blended creativity with practical skills. He thrives on drawing inspiration from both old and new forms of media, watching movies, playing games, and connecting the dots between different storytelling techniques.

Outside the classroom, Rithik keeps busy. At the UMBC Gameroom, he works both behind the desk and behind the scenes, co-running its social media accounts. He’s also interning with UMBC’s Division of Information Technology (DoIT), where he's helping the Southwest Visions Foundation build its social media presence. These opportunities have shown him what it’s like to create content that’s actually seen and used by real people.

A dreamer with a practical edge, Rithik hopes to one day work in film, perhaps as a video editor or in music production for movies or games. In five years? “Hopefully with a job, in an apartment, with a cat,” he says.

For Rithik, media is more than entertainment, it’s an evolving language, one he’s learning to speak fluently and creatively. A piece of advice he holds close came from a professor: "Work on every project as if it's going into your portfolio, not just for a grade." And that’s exactly what he’s doing, building a body of work with passion, purpose, and play.

By: Isy Davy

Photo Credit: UMBC Women's Soccer

For Ava Schreiber, a Junior and a Division 1 soccer player at UMBC, media isn't just something consumed passively, it's an influential force she's interacted with since childhood. Initially drawn to the Media and Communication Studies (MCS) program by her experiences as an athlete, Ava was intrigued by how athletes are portrayed across various media platforms and how those narratives shape public perception.

"Growing up as an athlete, I've always been exposed to different types of media," Ava shared. "I've seen firsthand how media shapes the environments athletes navigate, and that's what initially sparked my interest in MCS."

Choosing MCS at UMBC was not a difficult decision for Ava. She was searching for a degree that catered to her creative instincts and allowed space for innovative thinking and application.

"I was drawn to a more creative way of thinking, and the MCS degree allows for exactly that," Ava explained. "It gives me room to express my ideas creatively while understanding and engaging with media critically."

Throughout her academic journey, Ava pinpointed specific MCS courses that have significantly shaped her professional trajectory. Currently enrolled in MCS 144, Ava highlighted the practical benefits she's gained from the course. This class has actively equipped her with essential professional skills, from mastering LinkedIn profiles to perfecting her elevator pitch—skills critical for life beyond graduation.

"MCS 144 has truly been invaluable. It has helped me envision clear career pathways, showing me how to build a strong professional presence online and communicate effectively in professional settings," Ava remarked.

One pivotal moment for Ava came during her MCS 399 capstone project, where she focused on the discrimination faced by women's sports in media. This project was deeply personal, given Ava’s lived experiences as a female D1 soccer player. It provided a profound realization about how media portrayal influences real-world attitudes and treatment.

"Doing my capstone on the discrimination against women's sports allowed me to directly explore issues that impact my daily life as an athlete," Ava said. "It deepened my understanding of media's power and relevance in everyday life."

Ava also noted MCS 377, a visual communication course, as instrumental in her skillset development. Aspiring to pursue a career in marketing, Ava recognized the practical value of design and photography skills she acquired in the class.

"377 opened up an entirely new avenue of professional skills for me," Ava mentioned. "It's given me confidence and capability in visual communication, which directly helped me secure my upcoming summer internship."

This summer, Ava will put her MCS education into practice during a marketing internship with Headstrong Lacrosse, a prominent sports organization. She expressed enthusiasm about applying the theories, design principles, and professional communication strategies she's learned at UMBC.

"I'm really excited about my internship with Headstrong Lacrosse," Ava noted. "It'll be the perfect opportunity to apply everything I've learned in MCS, from design skills to effective marketing strategies."

Reflecting on her journey so far, Ava Schriber's experience illustrates how the UMBC MCS program empowers students by intertwining theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Her blend of creativity, athletic insight, and professional readiness shows the powerful potential of an MCS education, preparing students not just for graduation but for impactful careers and lives beyond the classroom.

By: Rithik Kavanakudy

When Dan Truckenbrodt began his time at UMBC, he started off on an engineering track. However, like many students just starting college, he discovered it wasn’t the right path for him. He soon found the MCS program and decided to give it a shot, as it piqued his interest and seemed to be the best fit from the other majors he had looked at. 

“I went into my freshman year on an engineering track but very quickly realized that it was not for me,” Dan recalls. He “eventually attended an intro-level MCS class – if I’m remembering correctly, Dr. Snyder was my professor – I really enjoyed the topics that we covered and the discussions we had in class.” This class would serve as the catalyst for Dan’s MCS career.

Dan would go on to graduate in Winter 2015 with his major in MCS and a minor in English/Writing. Though he wasn’t entirely sure where MCS would lead him when he decided on the major, he didn’t let that stop him from immersing himself and taking away key skills that would one day prove to be useful. One of his favorites was learning to create and do voiceover for stop-motion videos, which he did for an MCS assignment. 

“The assignment was to create a presentation discussing one of your favorite pieces of technology, but I decided I wanted to take it further than just a PowerPoint presentation. It was a lot of work for just a 1-2 minute video, but I was super happy with how it turned out.” He explains that he had fun going through the process of compiling photos and putting them together and putting a voice over to create a finished product. 

Today, Dan is working as a project manager at a web agency in Baltimore that specializes in building websites for high-end clients, as well as museums, cultural institutions, and some multinational corporations. Recently, they won a Webby for one of the sites they had produced. Before this position, he was working as a marketing manager at a publishing company for 5 years here in Baltimore. 

For Dan, career goals can be defined in two ways: where one looks at job titles/positions and the money they earn, and the other looks at what one gets out of their career. He goes on to note that “a solid work-life balance, finding satisfaction in the work you do, and having great coworkers that make your days enjoyable are all things that I find myself placing greater importance on. I still want to make money! But, I also want to have an enjoyable time doing it, too.”

Going back to skills, Dan recommends that students focus on gaining skills in communication and personability. “So much of media, comms, marketing, and management jobs are people-facing, and being able to effectively communicate is extraordinarily important.” He goes on to note how many other technical and job-specific skills can be picked up along the way, but that being able to communicate effectively is one of the most important. 

For new MCS students, Dan notes that one of his regrets was not doing more internships when he had the chance. “Internships can really open the door to so many more opportunities and connections post-graduation that you otherwise will have to work 10x harder for.” He adds that they are a great way to see the working world and potential fields of interest to work towards. One of Dan’s bigger regrets was not planning to do study abroad earlier in his academic career before it became too late. Studying abroad can allow students to explore and experience the world outside of their home countries.

Despite these regrets, UMBC still helped to shape Dan’s career in tangible ways. He was able to make connections with some of the hiring managers at some of the jobs he’s worked at after he noticed they were UMBC alumni, and thus mentioned that in his cover letters to them. He also notes that he got his first office job through a friend he had met at UMBC.

The process to Dan’s current role was, as he describes as “Unusual?”. He continued working at his restaurant job for several months until he got the aforementioned job from his friend, with which he started to build up his resume. He goes on saying, “After leaving that job and taking a bit of time off to do some post-education soul searching, I found my way into the marketing and publishing world by happenstance.”

Outside of work, Dan enjoys a multitude of hobbies. “I’ve always been into photography, that’s a bit of a mainstay in my life. Last year, I bought a super-telephoto lens, so I’ve been getting more into bird photography recently.” Dan also loves to travel, for which he has a few trips planned for this year, as well as partake in pottery classes, which he's done for 2 years now. 

Dan does not forget about his time at UMBC. When asked about his favorite memory, he jokes, “Graduation day? No only (half) kidding. Honestly, just walking around campus, especially on nice spring days,” He explains how it wasn’t something he truly appreciated until after he had graduated. 

Dan most often consumes media through social media, “though I don’t love that that's the case.” A fun fact about Dan is that he has officiated a friend’s wedding and recommends it to those who have the opportunity.

By: Baylee Seabolt-Wilbanks

Q: What is your name and year?

My name is Morgan Seabolt-Wilbanks and I’m wrapping up my second year here at UMBC.

Q: Why did you decide to pursue a degree in media and communications?

I chose media and communications as my major because I didn’t feel particularly passionate about what I wanted to do/what industry I wanted to go into. So media and communications being a versatile and easy (compared to other majors) major appealed to me. And I’ve always had an interest in communication and psychology so I knew I wasn’t going to be completely uninterested in what I was learning.

Q: What has been your favorite MCS course so far?

I think my favorite MCS course so far is MCS333 (History and Theory of Mass Communication). I love theory, so it being a very theory involved class really had me in my element. I also had a really great professor who made the content extra interesting.

Q: What has been your favorite MCS assignment/project?

I think my favorite MCS project was producing a social media strategic plan for a company/brand of choice. I enjoyed this project because I felt like I was really putting my MCS skills to work and it was for something I was passionate about.

Q: Do you feel properly prepared by the coursework/classes?

I would say I have the necessary qualities to go into the media and communications industry but not necessarily the experience—I have the framework to succeed in a MCS related position but not the skills. However, I have yet to take the required internship so my answer would likely change after completing that.

Q: How have you applied MCS outside of the classroom?

Aside from using some of the production skills I learned for personal projects, I wouldn’t say that I really use MCS outside the classroom. But that’s mainly because I don’t have anything to apply it to (my current job isn’t really MCS related). Although, I 100% carry with me an “MCS mindset” all throughout my daily life—just thinking about the things I encounter through an MCS lens.

Q: Would you recommend this degree to others?

I would definitely recommend this degree to others. As I said before, it’s a versatile and interesting degree which makes it a great option for those who are unsure what they want to do and those who are actually interested in media and communications.

Q: Describe your MCS capstone project.

By: Nate Walton

Photo Credit: Jonathan Han

The ability to navigate a dynamic landscape is more important than ever in a world that is being shaped more and more by digital media and diverse communication strategies. Johnathan Han, a  student in UMBC's Media and Communication Studies (MCS) program, is a prime example of how a solid academic background coupled with real-world experience can mold a student into a self-assured future media professional. In a recent interview, Jonathan talked about his experience in the MCS program, including the importance of the Capstone Seminar, the interdisciplinary nature of the program, and his goals for a career in marketing.

Johnathan acknowledges that his knowledge of the MCS major was limited prior to enrolling in the program. He recalled, "I only knew that the major offered a wide range of opportunities." When selecting a communications-based degree, many students feel this way: hopeful but unsure of the precise directions it could take them. But for him, the experience was far more than he had anticipated. According to Jonathan, the program confirmed and strengthened his interest in media and communications, which heightened his desire to pursue the career paths that MCS had to offer.

For Johnathan, the MCS curriculum's integration of theory and practical application is one of its distinguishing features. This is especially clear in MCS 499: Capstone Seminar, which is the culmination of academic research and study and calls for students to integrate their knowledge from various program areas. For him, this was a turning point rather than merely an academic obstacle. He saw the Capstone Seminar project as a chance to demonstrate a variety of skills and information he had learned in previous classes, including globalization and MCS theories, in order to organize a paper that advanced media education. It was an opportunity to make sure that the curriculum was accurately understood. This extensive and demanding final project not only tested him but also made a substantial contribution to his academic growth by forcing him to apply intricate theoretical frameworks in a logical, practical setting.

He also highlighted the importance of the program's elective courses, especially those that let students push the envelope. He gained a wider range of media tools by taking classes like MCS 366: Podcasting and MCS 370: Special Topics in MCS, which pushed him to experiment with different formats and topics. He says these classes give the program a surprising depth. “I think it does really well with expanding or adding upon what you thought you already knew,” he said, underlining how these offerings opened up avenues that may be directly applicable to future employers.

Johnathan's development has also been significantly influenced by real-world experience. He has gained practical experience with technical skills that are becoming more and more sought after in the media industry thanks to programs like UMBC's Television Production Crew. Although MCS has been known to help aspiring writers and journalists with their academic readings, he points out that this is only one of the numerous opportunities that make the major so alluring. He has taken advantage of the technical opportunities offered by the major, which expand into filmmaking, editing, and television techniques. In a media setting where adaptability is essential, these technical skills distinguish students such as Johnathan.

He also discussed how the program influenced his use of public and digital platforms. He recognized the value of deliberate and considerate communication as a member of a generation that is closely connected via social media. As new talents like him continue to blossom in the professional landscape, Jonathan has grown more aware of his self-efficacy. His digital footprints are displayed on his platforms, which he uses as a means of upholding his moral principles and raising awareness of issues that he feels are significant. This awareness reflects the critical lens that the MCS program encourages students to apply to the media they create and consume, and it goes beyond branding.

In the future, Johnathan sees himself employed in marketing, a field that combines strategic thinking, media production, and storytelling. "I would adore an internship or full-time position that would enable me to work with cameras, edit, or manage projects," he stated. His goals highlight a more general reality: media professionals today need to be adept at managing the numerous moving components that influence communications plans and media campaigns in addition to creating content.

Jonathan Han's story serves as an example of how studying media can equip students to not only comprehend media but also influence it. His journey through UMBC’s MCS program highlights the value of interdisciplinary education, the necessity of hands-on experience, and the power of reflection in forging a successful path forward. His story is inspiring as well as educational for students just starting out in the media industry.

By: Marilin Argueta-Osorio

Photo Credit: Noël Johnson

Meet Dan Glennon, a Winter 2023 graduate who has built himself quite a resume! He was a stagehand for IATSE Local 19 union, a marketing representative at Maryland Live!, and a department manager at a Magic the Gathering card store. Dan is someone you can’t box in and has definitely broken into the industry in an unconventional way. Let’s dive deeper into how all his experiences made him who he is today.

Q: You've worn many hats throughout the years, do you have a favorite out of the many positions you've had?

First off, thank you for choosing me for the profile. I am honored to be a part of the UMBC MCS family. Secondly, I am throwing professional decorum out the window. You're interviewing a comedian.  But every job I have had has its moments. I thought it was cool giving away a Batmobile at the casino. Crashing weddings as a DJ Assistant made for great people watching. It was fun being able to stay at Warped Tour after I spent three hours helping to build it. But the one that sticks with me the most was when I was 19, I worked at a Magic: the Gathering card store. The owner was only six months older than me so we both had a crash course in how to run a business. I had to run events for 30+ people every day while running the store front and managing inventory. My hair was on fire but I loved it. I thrived in the chaos and it is largely responsible for my ability to operate under pressure. 

Q: Do you have a favorite memory of working as a department manager at a Magic the Gathering card store?

One memory that sticks out to me is helping my friend Brittany build her first deck. I helped her personalize it, find cards she liked, and made sure the deck actually did what it wanted to do. The reason this one sticks out is because Brittany became a community mainstay, working at several of the area shops over the years. It leaves me a little warm, fuzzy feeling.

Q: Congrats on graduating! Rejoining the college scene as an older adult, did you face any challenges? You also mentioned you finished school during COVID, can you give us an insight into what a daily life would be as a college student during this time? 

Woah now, let’s relax on the “older adult” thing. Take my word for it; we aren’t going to be “old” for a long time. You’ll understand what I mean later. But I digress. When I went back to school in 2021, I actually felt like I was the perfect age for me to finish school. I felt like I had the insight (and courage) to lead a class and provoke meaningful discussions. I wasn’t scared to ask questions anymore and I am not so much older that I had nothing in common with my classmates. I mean, I also have YouTube Premium… A day in the life of a COVID student was waking up five minutes before class, turning on your computer, joining the class, and then listening in while doing laundry. The challenge was finding a way to keep myself on track when every day felt the exact same. COVID, amirite?

Q:  What drew you to pursue Media and Communication Studies instead of another art-related major? Did you pursue any minors while at UMBC?

As much of a creative person as I am, I wouldn’t call myself an “artist” per say. I think of myself much more as a designer. I don’t have the steady hand to paint or sculpt (I know, it’s ironic given I do graffiti but I’ll get there) but I have an eye for aesthetics. I chose MCS though because my curiosity was sated by the broad curriculum and my creativity was embraced by using media to create. I may not have a steady hand but I know when to time a sound drop or do a quick cut to build tension in a film. It’s also fun feeling like the smartest person at parties.

Q: What was your favorite MCS class to take? What made this class memorable?

My favorite MCS class was 333. While I had the most personally fulfilling experience writing my senior capstone, 333 with Loviglio was a blast. He would give us free reign to discuss topics and somehow, he found a way to bring it back full circle. 333 helped me zoom out on issues and see how a web of interconnected variables affects everything in our daily lives.

Q: You also took the MCS 480 course, do you have a favorite memory or piece of work?

Back in my day (shakes fist angrily at the sky) it was called 370! But I really enjoyed the class. I am really proud of the editing I did for our video campaign (I think it's running this semester, actually). I really embraced the full access to media to create with. I have made videos before but never with material that I was there to actually help shoot. It was also helpful to see when we needed more B-Roll for the video and we just had to go shoot more. Our team heard me and got the clips to me that same day. It also taught me that there is only so much creative control I have or should exert on a project. I get a great sense of satisfaction when I can mix added audio to perfectly synchronize with what is on screen. One video, Sophia said "stop, stop, stop" right as the music took a half-beat rest. The guitars kick back in the same moment that she begins to speak again. Seeing it play back felt like putting a shirt on straight out of the dryer. I also interviewed Dr. Loviglio on a lot of media theory stuff. I aimed for a GQ style interview, with a mix of narrative and transcript. I challenged him to explain Marshall McLuhan's "the medium is the message" in under 60 seconds. He did it in 48. I also learned that if you are planning a GQ style interview, with a mix of narrative and transcript, make sure to hit the record button… 

Q: How did you get into graffiti? What is one piece that you enjoyed making through this art channel?

How did I get into graffiti… How do I say this without snitching on myself… When I was younger, I was a degenerate. I’d sneak into abandoned places and throw up my tag. Part of it was leaving a mark. Part of it was being a rebel. But also, using spray paint is fun! I think it is because of my attachment to urban/punk culture mixed with the freedom I was given.  I knew I wasn’t going to paint a beautiful mural but I liked changing the way letters look to make shapes and designs. Graffiti showed me that you don’t need much to create something awesome. I actually drew the lettering on our podcast logo by hand and then put the border on Photoshop later.

Q: At the end, you note that you felt more prepared after graduation, what course(s) do you think prepped you the most for graduate life?

I wouldn’t say any particular course made me feel more prepared than any other class but when each of them was layered on top of one another, the interconnectedness of the world just made more sense. I think about it like this; Every mundane action or object is really [redacted] complicated but we have learned to explain simply. And if all else fails, just shrug and blame capitalism. Oh and I use words real good now too. Weird, right? Related note, I hope my wit and obvious sarcasm at times is coming through in these answers.

Q: What advice do you have for students graduating this year looking for jobs? 

My advice is to be creative, stand out, and find jobs on Indeed you can apply to without using Indeed. Yes. I mean going for a drive. And yes, it sucks when you prove all of the out-of-touch people right by "knockin' on doors." But the job market is dismal and job hunting is a soul-sucking endeavor. You are training your ChatGPT to tailor your resume to fight against their AI job filtering. Oh, and then there's the "fake jobs" that are listed just to appear that a company is hiring only to take the listing down three days later. I had over 100 cover letters in a folder. I was so done with it all.  The professional training we receive during our four years is invaluable. Professionalism is essential; but that doesn't mean that it has to be boring. So I decided to break the rules. I created a themed gift box, placed my resume inside, addressed it to the hiring manager, and dropped it off at their office. I received a call two hours later asking for an interview and an offer after that single interview. You only have to get lucky once. And I'll take lucky over good every time. 

Q: Can you tell us more about the company you work for and the position you hold?

So I work at The Commercial Group, which is the parent company to Commercial Construction, Utilities, and Interiors. Basically, if you wanted to build something from a pile of dirt to a shiny new building, we could do it all for you. You’ve seen our work. We build Maryland Live! Casino. I am their marketing and communications coordinator so I do a lot of what you are doing in 480! I write monthly newsletters, post social media content, design proposal layouts and marketing materials. My boss encourages me to take creative liberties designing things because she appreciates my eye so much. I am even going to job sites with a DSLR camera to get promotional material. It’s cool to see my work get incorporated into something that is trying to achieve something so great. I designed the presentation we made to a big company for a multi-million dollar contract last month. Was I the one breaking down pre construction budgets and how OSHA rules will apply to the site? Nope. But goddamn does that presentation look slick. We were awarded the contract. It must have been the background.

Q: What has been your favorite written material from your comedy jokes series? Where do you perform? 

I perform several nights a week out throughout Baltimore. You can always catch me at The Manor on North Charles Street every Thursday at 8:00 for sure. A favorite joke that would work in written form? Hmm… This is a little harder to do because they are performative by nature but I'll type out some of my lines.

“ So I got my first career job out of college and it even has benefits! One of which is a salary! It's bizarre for me to be in a situation where I am not worried about bills; just complaining about them. But I know what it is like to be broke. Has your credit ever gotten so bad that you stop getting pre-approved credit cards in the mail? I was so broke that I was DoorDashing... Got shot at... And continued to DoorDash... Not in general... The very same delivery. So when I go to knock on the door and the guy comes down, he asks why I am shaking and I told him that I just got shot at. So he takes the food and says to wait right there. So I do. Because I'm stupid. And he comes back down with his own gun and says that I'm gonna get out of there alright. I learned that you can earn a lot of loyalty from someone by bringing them tacos at two in the morning. That man was ready to commit a felony for me."

Q: Lastly, is there any other fun fact that you would like us to know about you?

Anything else… Hmm… Oh! Check out the podcast my friend and I do called “The Flood with Doc & Ziggy.” We take the news happening around us and how it shapes the culture that defines us with our pop perspective to put culture in context and make the mainstream make sense.

By: Kendall Blunt

Photo Credit: Abel Communications

Madeline Arbutus, a graduate of 2022, holds her dual B.A. in Media and Communication Studies as well as Visual Arts with a focus on Graphic Design. She also completed a minor in Art History and Museum Studies while at UMBC. During her time here, she combined her passion for theory and design working in roles that pushed her forward in her journey. Being a Production Manager at The Retriever (UMBC’s newspaper) taught her key skills like meeting deadlines and working collaboratively, while also growing her love for typography and print layouts. Additionally, working as Curatorial Assistant at UMBC’s Center for Art, Design and Visual Culture was equally as formative of an experience. Madeline was exposed to concepts like accessible design, a process that considers people with disabilities when creating something, a passion she would keep even after graduation. These experiences, along with the mentorship of Dr. Loviglio, Sandra Abbott, Peggy Re, and Guenet Abraham in both MCS and Visual Arts helped develop her critical thinking, collaborative skills, and creative instinct that has shaped her career.

Currently, Madeline works as a Graphic Designer at Abel Communications, a small, Baltimore-based PR firm. As a part of the creative team, Madeline tackles a range of projects ranging from logo creation and campaign development to video editing and accessibility audits. Within her role, she enjoys studying new and trending design styles and incorporating them into her work, as well as working on mastering tools like Adobe Suite, which can be challenging, but worth it to elevate her designs. Reflecting on her work, Madeline finds the most fulfillment in using visual problem-solving to communicate ideas effectively, allowing messages to resonate with a diverse audience. 

When transitioning from UMBC to her career, Madeline recalls having to actively see herself more professionally. She recounts, “It’s easy to discount your skills and experience right out of college (even though you’re qualified and capable), especially when you’re surrounded by people with years in the field. I recognized, however, that clients and coworkers were already coming to me for design help and expertise. That realization was a turning point—if they were taking me seriously, I should take myself seriously.” She also credits her blended education of both theory and practice for contributing to her success post-graduation. Madeline urges current students to take advantage of all the opportunities offered at UMBC, such as researching niche interests, discovering passions, and pursuing projects that align with their values. 

While Madeline misses the vibrant community and endless resources UMBC offered, her journey exemplifies what it can mean to successfully move from a degree to a career.

By: Gwen Pacis

Photo Credit: Gwen Pacis

At first glance, Media and Communication Studies (MCS) core courses seem straightforward. Each offers skills that will be important in completing a person’s capstone towards the conclusion of the Bachelor of Arts degree. However, after completing MCS 222: Introduction to Media & Communication Studies as a core course prerequisite, MCS majors tend to hesitate when looking at the following courses they need to head into. 

For a lot of people, history and theory can be intimidating to learn and comprehend. It’s understandable as well – when discussing theory, it often comes in various media – not only online, but as physical forms (e.g., books, newspapers, etc.). Additionally, the diction may pose an obstacle for many. However, as a prerequisite for MCS 499: Capstone Seminar, it does not hurt to take a deeper dive into the course material of MCS 333 beforehand to reduce the fear of its material.

What is MCS 333: History and Theory of Mass Communication and Media Studies?

As aforementioned, MCS 333 is an MCS course course that critically examines the history and theories surrounding mass communication and media studies. Instead of focusing mainly on recent decades and developments within social media and other forms of technology, the class material follows a timeline starting from the mid-19th century and its evolution to current-day media culture. The various impacts of not only electronic technology but also transportation (e.g., train) and machinery (e.g., telegraph) contribute to the discussion of media culture evolution. 

In the case of learning about numerous theories, the course offers a wide range of sophisticated texts published by scholars dedicated to understanding the effects of media and society intertwining. Some of these effects elaborated by the theories may discuss electronic technology (e.g., phones) while some dive deeper into the effects of other forms of media on social, economic, and political history. 

For example, a theory that current MCS students elaborate on that has stuck with them would be Jean Baudrillard’s “The Precession of Simulacra.” In a world where technology has integrated itself into society and the environment, this theorist discusses how reality and the simulated world have come to a point where individuals can not distinguish between the two. By indulging in simulacra (e.g., photographs, TV shows, etc.), we fail to recognize our actual reality to appeal to our excitement towards fiction. 

It sounds complicated, does it not? However, through the course, students are able to grow a comprehension of this theory and similar others by connecting it to even their own experiences and current world events. This then opens a student to various perspectives – ones where even many were surprised that they existed prior but have not been discussed further.

How can I make this course easier for myself… and even others?

It is always important to remember that you are not the only one struggling to comprehend something. 

Again – history and theory are hard to comprehend for a lot of people. Especially for me! The formats and diction they are often delivered in may not be understandable off the bat and may need additional elaboration to fully understand the depth of their meaning. In previous semesters, students have noted that professors often pair such theories with real-time examples – such as popular video games (e.g., World of Warcraft) or even global events (e.g., wars, protests). Individually, taking consistent notes in lectures and connecting the theories to your own major life experiences opens new understandings of how media interacts with society today. 

As a current professor of MCS 333 for the fall semester of 2024, Dr. Jason Loviglio also acknowledges the difficulty of grasping the meaning of the material. He advises students to begin with things they and many others don’t understand. “Normalizing feeling a bit lost is important for learning and an important component of the process that theorists go through in developing their theories.” Particularly – texts from Plato, Corinthians, JS Mill, and bell hooks are ones he mentions to be some of the most difficult. However, to lighten the confusion, he has included his own vault of memes, poetry, video essays, etc. for students to connect back to the theories they are paired alongside. 

There are also times when you may grasp a theory and its historical effects much easier than another peer. As noted by Dr. Loviglio and other students who have completed the class – class discussion and collaboration are essential to boosting comprehension. Dr. Loviglio says that the class works best when “students develop a set of recurring questions and arguments that they can bring from text to text and unit to unit. And when they see each other's struggles and questions as part of a collective learning project.” Plus, bouncing ideas back and forth with a person may produce new information about certain concepts or events that can be applicable to these theories.

When should I take this course? Sooner? Later?

It is important to mention again that MCS 333 has MCS 222: Introduction to Media & Communication Studies as a prerequisite for the MCS major’s core courses. However, the best time to take this course is as soon as possible when the chance arrives! MCS 333 lies a significant foundation for the concluding capstone project in MCS 499 as the skills for examining theories and history are essential for the sources you may utilize. Even better, taking this course before MCS 399: Methods in Media and Communication Studies can be beneficial as it aids the research methods (e.g., content analysis) discussed in the class material.

Despite the difficulty it might hold, this course is beneficial for the long-term as it grants you the skills to read deeper between the lines and see the historical growth of media’s role in society in various lights – whether it be beneficial or detrimental. These theories follow you into MCS 499 as well!

The path through this course does not have to be a blind stroll – it can work out!