This post was updated from a previous version published in November 2007. Whether student media should report about suicides is an ethical discussion that must occur too frequently in campus newsrooms. Suicide is the No. 1 cause of death in U.S. college students, responsible for more deaths than alcohol, according to a study completed earlier … [Read more...]
15 practical pieces of conference advice
I originally wrote this post last August after attending the AEJMC national conference in Denver. I just returned from attending this year's conference in St. Louis. I hope this archive post is helpful to those who are still at the conference or are attending or planning to attend other such events. I attended my first national Association … [Read more...]
IDK = I doubt you’ll get a (positive) response
I <3 emoticons. The little textual facial expressions are perfect in a time when most of our communication is via text or e-mail messages. They help provide context and emotion to words that may otherwise be misinterpreted. A comment looks a lot less sinister when it's followed with a :) I also see the benefit of abbreviated language, … [Read more...]
SPJ declares support for collegiate journalists, advisers
Just in case you were wondering, the Society of Professional Journalists supports you, collegiate journalist, and your adviser. The national chapter approved a resolution earlier this week declaring support for the free speech and free press rights of college journalists and their advisers. The resolution's approval was part of SPJ business … [Read more...]
The Final Grade Meltdown
Professor friends, here is a little something from the archive that I hope makes you smile during your grading and grade submission. Of course, this is not about my students who are perfect in every way. This is a work of fiction. Here's an example of an email from a hopefully atypical student during midterms or finals: Dear Professor … [Read more...]
Professional mentors: Three men who changed my life
My best ideas occur in two places – my car and my shower. So, it’s not surprising that most of my blog ideas originate between the rinse and repeat or while I’m on autopilot in my Honda. I felt the impact of double inspiration during this morning’s drive. I was listening to the podcast of my pastor’s recent sermon on leadership. This quote from my … [Read more...]
My life as a virtual hoarder
There is an amazing feeling that comes with completing a task. Perhaps it is the rush of marking something off of the list, or it could be the anticipation of beginning the next task. The happiness may just be the result of productivity... if you've accomplished one thing, surely you can accomplish others. These positive feelings (whatever their … [Read more...]