Throughout my time in this class and in my degree, I have learned an immense number of skills that will help me once I graduate. I feel blessed to have received such knowledge during my time here at ODU. I have learned various communication, research, and public speaking skills that have allowed me to progress as a research student. Throughout my time as a student, I have gained hands-on experience as an intern for HII-NNS. During this internship, I was able to use my communication and research skills to improve HR fundamentals and guidelines. This on-the-job experience has prepared me to return to the shipyard upon graduation.

​

I have taken various courses like interpersonal communication, public speaking, emergency communication, and organizational behavior classes that have prepared me for real world opportunities.  My understandings of communication studies have completely shifted throughout my time at ODU. I feel more equipped as ever to take on real world challenges with these skills. An influential skill I have learned is to critically analyze readings, lectures, and topics I am assigned. I find that taking my time to analyze material that I am given allows me the opportunity to understand and interpret information.

 

As I completed this research project, I found that I felt more invested in the assignment due to the freedom I had to complete it. Being able to choose a topic that interests me kept me motivated. The topic that I chose to write about, which is the implications of image editing and filter usage for young women, is something that is very important to me. As someone who grew up in an era where the internet and social media advanced at critical speeds, I can say that this issue has personally impacted me. The topic can be sensitive at times, but that does not diminish its relevancy or the need to discuss it.

​

Overall, my experience with this assignment has been a positive one. I have completely rethought my social media usage and how it affects me. I have also learned to better understand insecurities and how to manage them. The research skills I have learned in this course make me feel more prepared for my future at HII-NNS. As I continue to navigate through my master's and eventually a doctoral degree, I know the tools and resources I have been provided will go the distance. 

 

​

​