Irene J: Double Major! My Journey Through COM’s Rich Academic Landscape

As I approach my final semester at BU, I’m struck by how swiftly the time has passed. Soon, I’ll don the regalia and mark the culmination of an incredible journey. Yet, this semester, I made another significant decision for my academic career—I chose to double major within the College of Communication (COM), transitioning my minor in Film and TV into a double major alongside Media Science.

Why this eleventh-hour shift, you might wonder? I’m eager to share the unique opportunities available at COM and illustrate my journey, hoping to inspire and guide future students passionate about deepening their academic exploration.

My studies have always been driven by a fascination with the intersection of the entertainment industry—particularly film—and the transformative role of media and consumer experience. Media Science laid the foundational understanding of media strategy and the creative aspects of branding. Over time, I broadened my scope to include insights into the film industry and its business dynamics, enriching my upper-classman years’ learning experience.

However, as my undergraduate path neared its end, I felt a lingering sense of incompletion—a feeling that I hadn’t fully pursued my interests. This realization propelled me to delve deeper into the film, exploring its persuasive power and impact on audiences.

Embarking on this path so late in my undergraduate career might seem daunting but thrilling at the same time. It’s a reminder that the pursuit of passion knows no timetable and that it’s the fervor and dedication we bring to our endeavors that define our academic and professional journeys.

I share this story not just as a personal narrative but as an invitation to future students of COM! To those who stand where I once did, teetering on the edge of decision, I say: Dive deep into your passions. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but it is also replete with unparalleled opportunities for growth, discovery, and fulfillment.

Emily F: My Favorite Springtime Activities in Boston

As spring semester is starting, I find myself excited for the warmer weather. Some of my favorite activities to do in Boston are somewhat dependent on the nice weather, so I’m waiting until I am finally able to spend more time outside, and not be rushing down the street in the cold temperatures. I figured that I would write about some of these activities and share them with you! 

The Esplanade 

First off, the Esplanade- the path that runs along the Charles River, where people can be found walking, biking, or just enjoying the weather. It’s one of my favorite places when the weather is nice, and I enjoy just walking down it, listening to music or an audiobook, or walking and chatting with my friends. If you want to do something more active, you can always rent a Blue Bike and go for a bike ride down the Esplanade. It does cost money to rent, but it can be a fun way to spend some time with your friends. My friend and I rented the bikes for 30 minutes and we’re able to bike from campus down to the North End. 

The Public Gardens 

One of my favorite days from last semester was when my friends and I went to the Boston Public Gardens and spent some time reading and relaxing. It was during reading period last spring, and I needed to get out of my dorm and away from studying. My friends and I had spent the past few days studying and preparing for group projects, and we all needed to take a break. So, we made our way to the Public Gardens. We stopped at the Dunkin nearby, laid out our blanket, and all started reading. We stayed in that spot for a while, just enjoying the weather, reading, and catching up. 

Exploring the City 

Last year, my class got canceled on a Friday, and I had absolutely nothing to do. I had no assignments due to catch up on, and no club meetings to plan for. Normally, I would’ve taken this day to spend some time reading and catching up on sleep, but since it was a beautiful day out, I knew I wanted to spend some time outside. So, I took my camera, and made my way down to the North End. I spent my day looking at the city through my camera lens. I got a ton of great pictures that day, in the Boston Common, the Public Gardens, the North End, and the Boston Harbour area. I was able to take pictures for fun, and not worry about them being perfect for a class project, and for me, it was the perfect way to spend the day. 

These were some of my favorite experiences in Boston, and the best part is that they didn’t require any planning, and weren’t too expensive to achieve. It allowed me to spend some ‘quiet time’ in the city, which I think really emphasized the beauty of Boston.

Sara H: Reasons why everyone should join AdLab or at least think about it!

1. Real-world experience and clients

You get to work with real clients and operate as a real ad agency to gain experience. Some clients that AdLab has worked with are Chobani, Asics, Celebrity Cruises, Bose Automotive, and even some great Boston-based ad agencies like Comm and Hill Holiday. The work we do for clients is real and it is so rewarding to see it all come to life during our presentations and when the client implements the work.  

2. Great teamwork and friendships

AdLab is a student-run ad agency and is the largest in the entire country. There are still faculty advisors always there to help but the students is what makes AdLab special! Our VPs and Directors work together to help produce the best possible work for the client to see and make sure our students are learning and are putting their best foot forward. The teams you form in AdLab will be people you work with all semester and some will even become your close friends because everyone is there to learn, work hard, and have fun!

3. Work on advertising skills 

There is a spot for everyone in AdLab whether you are a creative, a strategist, someone who likes to be organized, or someone who likes to talk to people! Our teams are made up of students with all different backgrounds in life and in advertising and it allows us to all learn from each other. As someone who is on AdLab Eboard right now and has been a strategist in AdLab in previous semesters, I can say it has been one of the best learning experiences I have gotten to be a part of. I have gained so many skills and improved on others as well. 

I hope you enjoyed my ode to AdLab and decide to join!

Daisy L: An Ode to COM Clubs

Everyone experiences imposter syndrome here at BU. This is an amazing school with incredibly motivated students from all over the world, and it’s easy to feel less than a lot of the community. However, one really strong asset that being in COM provides you are the really COM-specific extracurricular opportunities at your disposal. 

It’s easy to question your major, especially after COM 101 — which tells you all about each one, making you wonder if the choice you made on your Common App eight months ago really says who you are. Something that made me realize Journalism was for me was joining the journalism-focused clubs on campus, and all of which taught me real-world applications and networking. 

I know that for me, I needed to realize what form of journalism I was best at, and within that, where I should focus my time. After hopping around clubs like The Daily Free Press, WTBU, and BUTV10, I found what to spend most of my time in. Without these clubs, I never would have pictured myself on a specific career path after just one year at BU. 

Communications can seem broad, but COM extracurriculars can narrow everything down for you in a way that isn’t limiting but directional. It’s hard to come home from Thanksgiving having to talk about your major with your family, and not have taken a major-specific class yet. It’s equally as hard to make friends in your major in a giant lecture hall with every freshman in your undergraduate college. 

Not only are COM clubs the best place to grow your resume, but they’re also the most fun and productive way to spend time after class. These clubs reassure you that you’re in the right place as a COM student, and make you sure this is where you want to see your life going. I cannot recommend the COM club fair — or just Splash — enough to find your passion. I really don’t know where I’d be without that experience.

Karolina B-M: Karolina’s First-Gen Guide

I am a first-generation Latina student from the south side of Chicago and as a junior now I finally feel like I got the hang of things. If you are a first-generation Latino you can agree that the first semester is probably going to be the hardest emotionally; as it was for me being away from home and navigating university. But as time has gone by I’ve learned to adapt and how to show up for myself and my family every day and here are some solid tips I can give to help adjust to this process. My mom loves to say “todo es un proceso” and she’s a hundred percent correct, everything is a process and you will come out on top! 

Document your emotions, growth, wins, and losses 

You will never be an undergrad in a new city or school again in your life! Document precious memories of the mundane that won’t be mundane in five years. Journaling has helped me just let out my emotions that have been bottled up. I love also making monthly goals because if I write them down I feel more compelled to come back to them and make progress on what I said I would do. 

No te olvides de donde vienes 

Don’t forget about where you come from means to me that you are grateful for where you started growing to be where you are today. I was one of the few people from my primarily hispanic and black high school that went out of state for school and I do wish that my community was able to receive the same opportunities I am being provided. I show up not just for myself but for all my friends and family who couldn’t receive higher education. 

Do not compare yourself 

It's hard to do this, especially in such a competitive culture we’re put in, but I watched a TikTok that put it in a great metaphor that I always think about. When you play Mario Kart and you’re in 1st place you may focus on the side view that lets you know where everyone is and if they are catching up it takes away focus from your driving on the road and obstacles. Your focus on others is a huge disadvantage to your game aka your life and achievements. Especially when everyone comes from very different backgrounds and may have had a better starting point than you. Just try your best to do what's best for you and you’ll thrive. 

Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any support or even to have a conversation at kberm@bu.edu!

Mia P: Why I’ve Loved Being a COM Ambassador (and why you should become one!)

I’ve been a COM Ambassador since freshman year — I was actually one of the few freshmen who joined the program at that time. I’ve always loved orientation and new student programming, and I joined with the hopes of instilling my love and passion for COM into prospective new students.

As a senior, my experience as a COM Ambassador is one that I look back on fondly. From weekly building tours, to open houses, these moments have shaped my time at BU. I’ve also found so many friendships within the COM Ambassador community, and genuinely enjoy it when I have a tour or event.

For my final blog post, I want to express my gratitude for this program and share some of my favorite memories and experiences. If you’re thinking about becoming a COM Ambassador at some point, hopefully this convinces you 🙂

THE COMMUNITY

I’ve found some of my closest friends through the COM Ambassador program, and everyone has become a friendly face on campus. I’ve loved running into my fellow COM Ambassadors in classes or around Boston. Everyone is also so encouraging of each other, constantly lifting each other and appreciating each other’s achievements.

Apart from this, the other COM Ambassadors are also incredibly inspiring. They all hold such amazing internships, jobs, and leadership positions. It’s great to be surrounded by them because they push me to work harder and pursue my goals!

THE TOURS

I have no problem talking about why I love BU and COM, so tours are one of my favorite things to do during the week. I remember being a prospective student and emailing COM Ambassadors to learn more about the school (I wasn’t able to tour because of the pandemic), and I loved when they shared details about their experiences to help add some color to the place I had only seen online.

There have even been times when other COM students have told me I led their tour or was their guide at an open house — the feeling of gratification that has come with hearing that is so fulfilling!

If you’re interested in becoming a COM Ambassador at all, definitely apply! I’ve had the chance to learn so much about COM and the other majors within the school, as well as make friends. It’s also pushed me out of my comfort zone in terms of leading tours and public speaking. I’ll genuinely miss being a COM Ambassador and plan on enjoying every tour I have left!

Mia C: Ways to Celebrate Lunar New Year in Boston

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Boston's Chinatown comes alive with the spirit of celebration, offering an array of cultural experiences and festivities to welcome the Year of the Dragon in 2024. The Dragon is one of the most powerful animals in the Chinese Zodiac, it's known for its strength, ambition, charisma, and intelligence. Here's how you can immerse yourself in the rich traditions and joyous celebrations of the Lunar New Year in the heart of Boston.

1. Watch the Parade: Kick off the festivities by participating in the annual Lunar New Year Parade, featuring dazzling dragon and lion dances, traditional music, and costumes. The parade winds its way through the streets of Chinatown, creating an amazing atmosphere, and is incredibly fun to watch.

2. Indulge in Authentic Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure in Chinatown's renowned restaurants and eateries. Enjoy everything from dim sum to Peking duck. Don't forget to try festive delicacies like dumplings and longevity noodles, believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year.

3. Experience Cultural Exhibits: Immerse yourself in Chinese culture and heritage by visiting local museums and cultural centers that are hosting special exhibitions and events for Chinese New Year like the MFA. Explore interactive displays, learn about ancient customs and traditions, and gain insight into the significance of symbolic rituals like the dragon dance and fireworks.

4. Participate in Festive Activities: Engage in various festive activities organized throughout Chinatown, including lantern-making workshops, calligraphy demonstrations, and traditional games.

With its vibrant festivities, delectable cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, celebrating Chinese New Year in Boston offers an unforgettable experience for all!

Aidan W: A Guide for Incoming Students at Boston University’s College of Communication

Welcome to Boston University's College of Communication (COM)! As you embark on this exciting journey, you're not just going to college but becoming part of a community that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and communication. Here's some advice from a second-semester senior to help you make the most of your time at COM. 

Embrace Diversity: 

One of the amazing aspects of BU's College of Communication is its diverse student body. Embrace the opportunity to interact with students from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Engage in open conversations and step out of your own world– you'll find your college experience more fulfilling. 

Take Advantage of Resources: 

COM offers many resources to support your academic and personal growth. From state-of-the-art facilities to experienced faculty members, tap into these resources. Try out many clubs during the first week of class, attend COM Career Services and CCD workshops, go to office hours, and seek guidance from professors – it's the perfect way to enhance your skills and make the most of your time at COM. It's curated for you, anyway! 

Network: 

The field of communication thrives on networking. My best advice is to get a LinkedIn. As you explore the site, whenever you see a current intern at a company you like or a professional in a field you admire, send them a polite and positive message asking for a 15-minute phone call sometime they're free. Words cannot express how many doors have opened for me just by doing this once a month. Remember, you are not asking them for an internship or job, but ask them how they got to their current role, what they're currently working on, and advice for you. If they agree to the call, they want to help! You have nothing to lose if someone ignores your message or says no. There are millions of people on Linkedin, so message away! 

Manage Your Time Effectively: 

College life can be demanding, but effective time management is critical to success. Create a realistic schedule that balances classes, assignments, extracurricular activities, and personal time. This past semester was super challenging because I put too many academic and extracurricular activities on my plate. Looking back, I'm unsure how I managed it all, but I wish I had made more time for my friends and myself. This semester, I'm making time to study just as important as time to go to a yoga class. 

Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: 

In the dynamic field of communication, setbacks and failures are inevitable. Your work will be criticized, and you can't let that destroy your confidence. You grow stronger, and so does your work. 

Conclusion: 

As you enter Boston University's College of Communication, remember you're embarking on a journey beyond textbooks and classrooms. Embrace the opportunities, connect with your peers, and maximize the experience.

GT N: Figuring Out Your Friends

Who are your friends and what do they mean to you? Some people have childhood best friends that they’ve grown up with, others make friends through their sports or clubs, and others have a “right time right place” meet cute.

It is a bittersweet moment when the friends you’ve made your whole life begin to go on their different paths as you enter college. Maybe it feels like starting from square 1 again. That’s how I felt when I decided to move across the country for college. I knew that I still had my friends back home, but in this new chapter of life, it was going to be different. It was scary coming to the east coast all alone not knowing a single soul, but I promise everything works itself out. 

It’s a canon event for those large freshman friend groups to form the first week of school. I was in one, too. I wouldn’t say these friendships are artificial, but I wouldn’t say these are the people you will be with your whole college career just because things worked out in the beginning. When you’re in such a new environment with so many people in the same position as you, it’s natural to be drawn to them and even hold on to them. There is nothing wrong with that, but as time goes by, these groups get smaller and that is simply the way it goes. 

I see it as the accelerated version of the “three month rule” in dating. You eventually get to a point where you decide if you genuinely like these people, and there is only so much time you are willing to give to them. You essentially grow out of the people you met in the beginning, and that is okay! College is so concentrated with young, bright, and  like-minded people. Everyone is trying to figure themselves out, and sometimes it comes at a cost of drifting from friends in order to make room for more.\

I’ve learned to not take many social interactions personally in college, and that has helped me a bunch. As someone that gets attached easily and takes many things to heart, I learned that you might walk past someone you met at an event that won’t remember you, or for a moment things were going great with someone but somewhere along the way your paths won’t cross anymore. I want to assure you that you are not alone and it has nothing to do with you. 

You will meet people that you thought could be your lifelong friends and others where the connection is not that deep. Just keep in mind that things can change and anything can happen. Your social circle will be more like an ever changing cloud as you grow as a person and find yourself in college. Don’t lose yourself chasing other people, but focus on who you want to be, and people will gravitate towards you. 

Vanessa L: How to Find Your Passion in COM

I am passionate about COM because I am passionate about my major and career path. I’ve always loved reading and writing, and ever since I could remember and have always wanted to produce news. I was always sure I wanted to study journalism because I have a passion for hard news and spreading awareness of social issues. I want to educate and spread awareness on social issues I care about. I love COM because it contains people who are just as passionate about these issues as I am. COM lets me take advantage of so many different opportunities related to news and production. So many students are actively engaged in this community! It brings out the strongest motivation in me and it is always a pleasure to work with passionate people. 

There are so many organizations to choose from here in COM. Even without prior experience, people are happy to teach you and learn with you! I remember when I didn’t know a thing about camera operation in a news show I was a part of. However, I learned and experienced new things during my time there. Everyone has their firsts, and I think COM is happy to have students experience their firsts. 

For incoming freshmen, I want to say that you don’t have to be intimidated! There will be so many people willing to help you and so many resources. Getting involved in organizations that interest you is key. Find your community and be open minded. Don’t hesitate to reach out to peers, professors, advisors and organization leaders! And don’t limit yourself to your major. Attend career fairs, seek internships, and talk to advisors about potential career paths. It’s okay if you’re unsure; exploring is part of the process.You can explore various subjects in COM. Who knows? You might find a new passion while exploring. You will always have support!