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This paper marks the very beginning of my journey into media studies. Before this class, I thought of media as just social media, TV shows, and the stuff we scroll through every day. I didn’t really think about the bigger picture, like how media shapes culture, communication, and even history.

This is where I started. It’s cool to see how much my understanding has grown since then!

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Class Discussion: Sibling Interactions in 1950s Versus 1980s Sitcoms: A Comparison by Larson

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Class Discussion: Sibling Interactions in 1950s Versus 1980s Sitcoms: A Comparison by Larson

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Class Discussion Board: "Think about a television show (a. 2000-2013) you watched growing up that centered around a family unit."

I chose Good Luck Charlie on Disney Channel which released in 2010. The show is about the Duncan family adjusting to life with a new baby, Charlie, while dealing with the funny challenges of everyday life. Teddy, the older sister, records video diaries for Charlie to watch when she’s older. I usually watched it in the evenings after school or on weekends and recently re-watched it over the weekend before bed. The sibling interactions felt so real, which made it really funny to watch, there was plenty of teasing and arguing, but they always  supported or helped each other in the end. They often had to help regulate each other’s behavior, like covering for each other when dealing with their parents or stepping in to solve problems. It showed how siblings can annoy each other but still be a team when it really counts. Watching it made me appreciate how in most cases my siblings (2 sisters) and I work together, even during conflicts, and reminded me how family sticks together.

This discussion board was a fun walk down memory lane. I got to reflect on Good Luck Charlie, a show I loved growing up, and compare its family dynamics to my own. It was interesting to see the little similarities between the TV family and my real-life family, from the sibling chaos to the everyday lessons learned along the way.

What made this assignment so cool was realizing how media doesn’t just entertain us, it also reflects reality in a way that feels familiar and relatable. It made me think about how TV shows shape our ideas of family, relationships, and growing up.

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This project was one of my favorites because it let me dive into the history of Nintendo, a company that's been a big part of my gaming life. Creating a timeline of its evolution was like taking a walk through gaming history, from its early card games to the iconic consoles and characters we know today.

What made this project so fun was seeing how much Nintendo has influenced media and technology. It gave me a new perspective on how far media has come and how much creativity and innovation it takes to stay relevant in a constantly changing industry. This timeline isn't just a collection of dates, it's a story of growth, change, and the lasting impact of media on culture and entertainment.

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The Evolution of Nintendo: From Playing Cards to Nintendo Switch

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The Evolution of Nintendo: From Playing Cards to Nintendo Switch Conclusion and Future Insights Cultural Impact Recap of Major Milestones Nintendo's journey from its founding in 1889 as a playing card company to innovative gaming consoles like the Game Boy, SNES, Wii, and Switch

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"Learning to Like the Likes and the Hate: The Labor of Getting Internet Famous" - Dr. Ashley Mears Speaker Event

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"Learning to Like the Likes and the Hate: The Labor of Getting Internet Famous" - Dr. Ashley Mears Speaker Event

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Attending Dr. Ashley Mears’ event, "Learning to Like the Likes and the Hate," was an eye-opening experience. It was my first time attending a speaker event at NCSU, and I loved how insightful her presentation was, especially as she discussed topics that are so relevant to my own life and interests, particularly in the world of social media.

Dr. Mears talked about the digital labor behind becoming an influencer and the experience of internet fame. She explored the shift from a "reputation economy" driven by traditional mass media to the "attention economy" of social media, which really resonated with me, especially as I’m building a platform on TikTok. She also touched on the gamification of work and how influencers, like myself, often juggle various demands to create content that both entertains and resonates with audiences.

Her ethnographic research gave me a new perspective on social media, not just as a fun hobby, but as a form of labor that requires strategy, emotional investment, and resilience. It really made me think about the effort and pressure that goes into managing an online presence, something I can definitely apply as I continue to develop my own social media platform.

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"After taking a look at my media inventory this week, I noticed that my screen time averages around 7 to 8 hours on weekdays and jumps to about 12 hours on the weekends. I use my phone a lot to stay connected with friends, whether it’s phone calling or FaceTiming to chat about our current lives, gossip, or just being in each other's presence. Video games are a nightly routine for me, and I play with friends as a way to relax and socialize. With my birthday coming up, I’ve been using my phone and computer to search for party ideas, outfits, and decorations. I also watch my favorite shows in the evenings and weekends, which is another way I unwind and relax. Recently, I started a gaming channel on TikTok, and I’m trying to engage more with that community. I’ve realized that media helps me stay connected with my social circle and helps give me an outlet for my creativity, it really can offer me inspiration that helps me grow as a person. Honestly, I believe media plays a good part in my social life and personal development."

Doing the media inventory project was eye-opening for me. It was a great opportunity to really reflect on how much I use media and what it means in my daily life. This project made me realize just how much media shapes my connections and creative outlets. It’s not just about entertainment; it truly helps me grow as a person and stay inspired.

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LH-Personal Media Inventory Worksheet (COM 257-002) - Sheet1 (1)

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This project was a whole new level of presentation for me. It was my first time using advanced technology like a wrap-around screen, and it made the experience so immersive. Seeing our analysis of cancel culture displayed on such a large, interactive screen was surreal, it felt like the research was coming to life right in front of us.

Presenting in this format was definitely nerve-wracking, but it taught me a lot about public speaking and using new technology. It’s one thing to make a slideshow, but it’s another to present it in a space where every movement and detail is magnified. I’d definitely need more practice with this type of tech, but overall, it was an unforgettable experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and made our research feel more impactful.

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Cancel Culture-Media Issue Group Paper  

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This project was a new experience for me because it was my first time writing a paper as part of a group. It was really cool to collaborate, share ideas, and see how different perspectives came together to create something more complete than I could have done alone.

Our topic, cancel culture, was especially interesting because it’s something I see on my social media feeds all the time. Analyzing public figures like James Charles and Trisha Paytas made the research feel super relevant. What stood out most was connecting cancel culture to the Libertarian Theory of media. I never realized how the theory could work both with and against cancel culture, and it gave me a more thoughtful perspective on "cancellation" as a concept. This project definitely changed how I see social media controversies and the power of public opinion.

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CancelCulture-Media Issue Group Paper  (1)

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Very Demure, Very Mindful: The Meme That Took Over 2024

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I had to include this GIF because it perfectly captures the viral moment of the semester. The "very demure, very mindful" trend, created by Jools Lebron, took over TikTok in 2024 and even had celebrities like Olivia Rodrigo, Lindsay Lohan, and Khloe Kardashian jumping on the bandwagon. It wasn’t just a trend; it became a cultural shift, showing how quickly a meme can shape our communication by influencing language and self-expression.

Honestly, watching this trend explode was "very demure, very mindful" of the way internet culture works, from quirky catchphrases to global trends, it’s all about how media can spark creativity and bring people together. Plus, it’s funny to think how we can be very demure while also being very mindful of the fact that everyone is suddenly saying it!

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Media and Propaganda: Comparing WWII to Today’s Media Landscape

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Media and Propaganda: Comparing WWII to Today’s Media Landscape

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One of the most fascinating things I learned in class was that the first extensive use of mass media for propaganda happened during World War II. Back then, tools like radios and films, which were relatively new forms of media, were primarily used to push political agendas and rally support for the war. It’s so interesting to compare that to how we use media today.

Now, we have a vast array of media outlets, and while political and societal issues are still widely discussed, they’re no longer the sole focus. There’s much more freedom in how we use media, and the control over it isn’t as centralized as it once was. This shift gives us more power in how we participate in these discussions, but it also means there’s a wider range of voices, making it much more complex. It’s a huge change in how media plays a role in society, and reflecting on this history really opened my eyes to how much has evolved.

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"Since the beginning of the semester, my media consumption has increased, especially as I’ve discovered and binge-watched new series like Arcane, Dan Dan Dan, and Survivor. I noticed that my screen time often depends on the type of content I’m engaging with, particularly when I get drawn into new shows, films, or older classics. Additionally, I’ve been focusing on growing my presence on platforms like Discord and TikTok, which has led to more media usage, especially during late-night hours. Building an online presence requires a significant investment in media consumption as I create content and connect with a growing audience. Despite these changes, my sense of self and social life has remained fairly consistent. I continue to use media as a creative outlet and a way to express myself, while also maintaining connections with friends, family, and peers. However, with the goal of expanding my online presence, I’ve begun interacting with more people online, which has introduced new opportunities for social connection and collaboration."

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Hall-LanaPersonal Media Inventory WorksheetNov - Sheet1

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The Song That Got Me Through the Semester: 'Paint The Town Red' by Doja Cat

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The Song That Got Me Through the Semester: 'Paint The Town Red' by Doja Cat

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"Paint The Town Red" by Doja Cat has become one of my go-to songs, and it’s not just because it’s catchy, it directly influences how I feel. Every time I play it, I get this instant boost of confidence and happiness, whether I’m getting ready for the day or playing video games. The vibe of the song totally matches the persona I put into my Fortnite avatar as well, which is all about confidence and having fun. I even use the emote to the song after I win a game to let everyone know, "Yes, you just lost to a girl—and a cool one at that!"

From a mass communication perspective, the song exemplifies how media can influence emotions and behaviors. Through its lyrics, upbeat rhythm, and overall attitude, "Paint The Town Red" creates a strong emotional connection, not just with me but with anyone who listens. This connection makes me feel empowered and positive, even when I’m just having fun in a virtual world. It’s a great example of how music, as a form of media, can shape our mood and actions. I also see how media like this can spread a sense of confidence and self-expression, empowering people to embrace their individuality.

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TikTok & Individual Differences Theory: A New Lens on Social Media

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TikTok & Individual Differences Theory: A New Lens on Social Media

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As someone who wants to develop a social platform on TikTok, learning about Individual Differences Theory has been eye-opening. I now understand that people’s responses to TikTok content are shaped by their unique personalities, cognitive styles, and preferences. Before this, I mainly thought of TikTok as a platform for entertainment and viral trends, but now I see how deeply personal attributes influence engagement.

For example, I’ve realized that people who enjoy quick, entertaining content (low need for cognition) are more likely to engage with humorous skits or viral challenges, while those who enjoy deeper, more thoughtful content (high need for cognition) are drawn to educational videos or more complex narratives. Understanding these differences will help me as I build my presence on TikTok because I can cater my content to different personalities and preferences. I’ll be able to create videos that resonate with a variety of users, making my platform more engaging and successful.

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"Banking on Females: Bravo’s Commodification of the Female Audience" - Nicole  B. Cox Article

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"Banking on Females: Bravo’s Commodification of the Female Audience" - Nicole  B. Cox Article

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One interesting thing I learned this semester that I would like to share with my girl friends is how Bravo has turned its female audience into a product for advertisers. In the article "Banking on Females: Bravo’s Commodification of the Female Audience," I discovered that Bravo refers to its viewers as "Affluencers", a combination of affluent and influencers. These are wealthy, influential consumers who engage with shows like The Real Housewives on social media, apps, and other interactive platforms.

Bravo uses this engagement to collect data about what its audience is watching and how they’re interacting with content, which it then sells to advertisers. It’s kind of brilliant, but it also raises some serious questions about how much control we, as viewers, actually have over our own media habits. This kind of manipulation of the audience for profit is something that happens behind the scenes in ways I hadn’t realized, and it made me think more critically about how media works today.

I think this is super interesting, especially for anyone who’s into media and social platforms, because it shows how much data we’re really giving away when we interact with content. Definitely something to keep in mind next time I’m scrolling through Instagram or watching reality TV!

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For this project, I stepped outside my comfort zone and took a deeper look at The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. It was a unique experience because, normally, I just watch it for laughs. But this time, I analyzed the political aspects and communication techniques used in the show.

This paper taught me to see everyday media in a whole new light. I realized that even something as casual as a late-night talk show has layers of messaging and strategy behind it. It was eye-opening to break down the way humor, interviews, and skits can influence how people think about current events and politics. This project definitely changed the way I watch TV, now I’m always catching the “hidden” messages I would’ve missed before.

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Hall, Lana - Election Media Theoretical Analysis Paper (1)

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Recommended Watch: Arcane – A Masterpiece of Storytelling and Visual Art

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Recommended Watch: Arcane – A Masterpiece of Storytelling and Visual Art

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If there’s one piece of media I’d recommend after taking this class, it’s Arcane. This show is the perfect example of how media goes beyond surface-level entertainment. It tackles deep societal and individual issues, portraying characters with real complexity. No one is purely "good" or "bad," and that grey area reflects the complexities of real life.

What makes Arcane stand out is its stunning art style. It’s bold, colorful, and unlike anything I’ve seen before, pushing the boundaries of animation and inspiring new forms of visual art. The soundtrack is just as powerful, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of each scene and adding layers of meaning to the story. This class taught me to look at media with a more critical eye, and Arcane is a prime example of how much meaning and purpose can be packed into every frame, character, and sound.

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This semester, I’ve learned so much about how media shapes our lives. From connecting with family over games to diving deeper into the world of social platforms, media has always been my creative outlet. I’ve gained a clearer understanding of how media influences my world, both positively and negatively, and how it plays a key role in my personal growth and creativity. It’s been an exciting journey to reflect on how media continues to evolve and how I engage with it!

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Gateway Out Paper_ What is Media to Me Now_