The 'Licious Life

Buy My Book: It Takes a Village is now available in paperback!

2013-05-15T17:05:00.000-04:00

I've told you for months about the book that Liz Murray and I were writing for our senior seminar project. I'm thrilled to announce...

It is available for purchase!

It can be purchased via Lulu for $8. Any profits will go towards helping Liz Murray (my co-author) and I get started in our post-graduation lives. I will be working as the social media coordinator for Southern New Hampshire University and Liz plans to continue working as a journalist either in Burlington, Vt. or Boston, Mass. It’s going to be a new adventure for both of us!

Please feel free to contact me via email (gabbihall@about.me) or Twitter if you have any questions!

Thanks to everyone who has helped us with this project!

-Gabbi

The Senior Weekend Experience and @SaintMichaels Graduation

2013-05-13T15:26:00.002-04:00

Hired in #HigherEd!

2013-04-30T08:58:00.002-04:00

If you aren't friends with me on Facebook, you don't follow me on Twitter and we aren't connected on LinkedIn, then I have some awesome news!

Yesterday, I accepted a job as the Social Media Coordinator for Southern New Hampshire University!

My responsibilities will include:

Responsible for day-to-day execution of SNHU’s social media presence across a variety of social platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn & YouTube.
Monitor multiple social media platforms on an ongoing basis.
Working in conjunction with SNHU’s Content Director, curate a social media
content calendar.
Produce, post and publish blog content in support of in-bound marketing
campaigns.
Support the curation of a detailed monthly social media report highlighting
ROI related to branding, customer service, and lead generation.
Provide training and assistance to various internal stakeholders on how to
leverage social media to meet and exceed divisional goals.
Monitor trends and applications in social media tools and appropriately apply that knowledge to increase the use of social media at SNHU.

Want to know how I got the job?

Social media. (I know. I know. "Typical Gabbi.")

My future boss, Seth ODell, and I had been Twitter acquaintances since I started tuning into HigherEd Live my freshman year. When I saw that he tweeted about an open position in March, I direct messaged him asking for more details. It was sort of on a whim. I didn't necessarily think they would want someone fresh out of college.

Within two weeks of submitting my resume, I had a phone interview. In mid-April, I drove down to Manchester for an in-person interview. Two hours after they interview as I was pulling back into St. Mike's, I got the off-the-record offer.

Yesterday, I accepted. I said from the get-go that I'd go anywhere for the right job, so I'm headed to Manchester because this is it.

(Tip to high schoolers/college students: When career counselors say that networking is the way to a job, they aren't lying! It really does work.)

Watch out, New England! You'll have to put up with my for a few more years. :)

xoxo

Gabbi

PS: I was also in the Talent Show last weekend. It's a grainy iPhone video, but I'll post it in case you're interested! It's a mash-up of Toxic, Sweet Nothing, Radioactive and Can't Hold Us.

The first #accepted2smcvt day as told by social media

2013-04-14T22:45:00.000-04:00

Make sure to use the hashtag for the April 20th day as well! I will be monitoring it all day for questions as well as posting schedule updates. What will you share?

View the story "#Accepted2SMCVT" on Storify#Accepted2SMCVTSt. Michael's College has two days a year for accepted students. Here is the first of them for 2013 as shown in tweets! Storified by Gabbi Hall· Sun, Apr 14 2013 19:39:42Excited to welcome the apprx 220 accepted students to our #Accepted2smcvt Day! (pic) ow.ly/i/1SU3o #smcvtSt Mike's AdmissionsThe @saintmichaels mascot awaits #accepted2smcvt students! instagram.com/p/YC4sA1APCW/Lisa RitterBalloons for the Open House! Excited to welcome #accepted2smcvt students and their families! instagram.com/p/YC3bcNgPA7/Lisa Ritterso excited to meet accepted students today! #accepted2smcvtErin IronsTruth: I am currently in my room playing Beyoncé to get pumped for accepted students day. #accepted2smcvt #greatdaytobeaKnightSusanna MarieSo ready for #smcvt accepted students day! #accepted2smcvt pic.twitter.com/UTDfAESKbxAlex BrenockTime to give awesome tours for awesome people #accepted2smcvtJessyl ZavalaBest college ever! #Tourguideselfie #accepted2smcvtLaurenMike the Knight & @SMC_Jaukkuri just got to celebrate with a girl who said "This is the place!" after her tour! #WelcomeHome #accepted2smcvtMatt ConnollyIf there's one thing you can always count on, it's that the @Acabellas_SMC will always kill it. #thebest #accepted2smcvtMatt ConnollyMike the Knight loves the Acabellas! #accepted2smcvt vine.co/v/bF7BM96BKiZLisa RitterThe Academic Fair for #accepted2smcvt students and their families to learn more about specific programs at #smcvt. pic.twitter.com/Wrq4VqfGrCLisa RitterStudent panel is about to begin for #accepted2smcvt students in Eddie's Lounge. pic.twitter.com/FQoU9Es2BMLisa RitterJust had a great time at the Alumni Career Panel #admitted2smcvt #smcvt and now onto Roller Derby @ Champlain Valley Expo #btv #cotswalkNicole StefanowiczParent panel in Ross Sports Center for #accepted2smcvt parents. Go @Bri_smcvt for being on the panel! pic.twitter.com/InLwaDiSx1Lisa Ritter#accepted2smcvt Loving this school.Maggie WhittemoreHad so much fun touring and talking about @MOVE_SMC with student for #accepted2smcvt !! Hope it made a difference!Kristen BeaulieuIt made my morning when I drove by #smcvt and saw students with "welcome home" signs for #accepted2smcvt day! So proud!!Caroline BrightThe start of a new life is literally right around the corner #accepted2smcvtap.

PS. If you want to see all the social media posts, visit the TagBoard for the event.

xoxo

Gabbi

Did you know I'm now a "Public Figure" on Facebook?

2013-04-09T22:41:00.000-04:00

Now you do!

It's true! I created a Facebook fan page. Now, I feel the need to tell you that it wasn't for egotistical reasons. I'm taking Social Media Practice and Theory right now and as part of the class we had to create personal brand pages.

I am currently undecided as to whether or not I will continue to use the page or delete it after the class. Before this assignment I was using the "follow" option on Facebook, which allows people to follow only your public posts. You can keep all your privacy settings and decide exactly what people can see.

My latest posts are my new pieces for the Defender. Make sure to visit my page to watch them. One is about the women's rugby team. The other is an interview with Mission South, a band that played at Turtle Underground.

I'll also be sharing posts from my other blog, Keys to Communication. With so much to see, why not "like" my page? (I also solemnly swear that I will not spam you. I will only share the good stuff.)

xoxo
Gabbi

How My "Weirdness" Has Helped Me

2013-04-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

I was in ballet class, joking around with some of my classmates, when my first-year friend, Alexi, says, "Seniors are weird."

My senior friend, Sarah, says, "I'm not."

I say, "Well, I am."

What prompted this brief interaction? It had something to do with me and my need to sing "Rock Your Body" by Justin Timberlake when the professor told us NOT to rock our bodies during chasses. In case you didn't know, I have a song for everything. Alexi observed that most of them are from the early 2000's, or as I call it, P.B. (Pre-Beiber). Additionally, my friend, Kerri, and I quote Forgetting Sarah Marshall a ton during class. We are particularly fond of the surf lesson scene. "Do less" is our line of choice during pliés.

Okay, so I am a little weird. I wish my life was a musical; I'm mildly obsessed with my iPhone; Sometime in the past 4 years my friends decided I was their fashion consultant, so now I think I'm Stacy from What Not to Wear; and I eat avocados right out of the peel with a spoon.

I would argue that all of this "weirdness" has made me successful in college. It doesn't mean that I am every body loves me and my "weirdness," but I think I have made better friends because I am open about all my quirks. In that sense, my success has coming in finding life-long friends.

My second type of success from "weirdness" comes from type-A personality. Now, you're probably thinking that being a type-A personality can only help me. (For those of you who don't know, a "type-A" person is someone who is overachieving with very high standards and goals.) My personality can be somewhat alienating. Sometimes you get called things like "Teacher's Pet." I've been that my whole life. I'm not going to apologize for wanting to be successful and working hard. That's ridiculous. Even though some of my peers may be miffed at me for it, it's been hugely helpful to me in my St. Mike's. Professors wants to help students who want to succeed. They will stick their neck out for you. It's also been incredibly helpful in terms of clubs like the Founder's Society. As a first-year and sophomore, I was an overly-ambitious blogger, who wanted a ton of views on her blog. That ambition got me the Online Media and Communications Coordinator position.

While this post may seem like a short rambling based on an insignificant moment, I hope that it encourages you to embrace your "weirdness" whatever it may be.

xoxo

Gabbi

Cooking in College: Easter Brunch

2013-03-31T17:40:00.001-04:00

Because St. Mike's is a Catholic college, we have the luxury of a 4-day weekend to celebrate the Easter Holiday. This year was the first year that I stayed on campus for the holiday. (In past years, I've been in Quebec City, Florida and Plymouth, Mass.) Lucky for me, many of my friends stayed, too. Therefore, we decided to celebrate Easter in our own way by making Easter brunch in a townhouse and watching Hot Rod.

I played chef and created a meal of Eggs Benedict and hash browns. To make breakfast for 6 girls, I needed to cook 12 eggs, cook bacon, toast English muffins and grill onions. My big struggle is always timing when I cook. How do I make everything come out hot at the same time?

My masterpiece.

My big trick this morning was cooking eggs in a cupcake tin. (Thank you, Pinterest!) I cracked on egg in each cupcake mold and pre-heated the oven to 350 degrees. Once the oven was ready I placed the eggs in the oven while I started the bacon on the stove top. The blog post says that it takes about 10 minutes to cook. To be honest, I just eye-balled it, but they turned out great. It also meant that everyone could eat at the same time and not as the eggs came out.

Now, back to the bacon. The Canadian bacon traditionally on Eggs Benedict is a little pricey, so I went with maple bacon, which not only tastes delicious, but smells awesome while your cooking it. You know what else smells delicious? Grilling onions. I put grilled onions on everything and it turns out my friends are also fans.

Lastly, I made Hollandaise sauce. It was the first time I've done that. I didn't make it from scratch, so I used Knorr mix which only requires butter and milk. It's not quite the same as the real thing, but, for an inexpensive make-shift college brunch, it was REALLY tasty.

Perhaps the best part of all this? The ingredients only cost me about $20 total. Between 6 girls, it was an inexpensive way to enjoy the holiday.

Next up for me? Turning in my book on Wednesday! I promise to blog more about it soon. Happy Easter and (slightly early) April!

xoxo
Gabbi

A Twitter Tour of @SaintMichaels

2013-03-19T11:57:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon, everyone!

This week, I have taken over the @ThisisVT account. Today, I took the state of VT on a tour of campus using Twitter. The Storify below is a compilation of tweets from the tour. I figured that anyone interested in St. Mike's would like to see campus in an easy slideshow!

View the story "A Tour of @SaintMichaels " on StorifyA Tour of @SaintMichaels Using Twitter and Instagram, I took @ThisIsVT followers on a tour of #smcvt using #smcvttweettour.Storified by Gabbi Hall· Tue, Mar 19 2013 08:49:41Time for your @smcadmissions #smcvttweettour! #smcvt #vt #btv @ Saint Michael's College http://instagr.am/p/XCrowQqD4b/THISISVTMeet your tour guide, me! #smcvttweettour #smcvt #vt #btv #itsallinthevisit http://yfrog.us/n5hrpvgpwuworatrqjrwfdcpzTHISISVTMeet Eric, an @SMCFounders coordinator. Here's why he likes @saintmichaels. #smcvttweettour #vt #smcvt http://yfrog.us/5ncgabrmrptokbtflewmrhrzzTHISISVT#smcvt is a Catholic College founded by the Edmundites in 1904. The chapel holds about 1,000 people. #smcvttweettour http://pic.twitter.com/BMx4WnHqiWTHISISVTThis is Cheray 101. It is our largest classroom on campus and holds about 100 people. #smcvttweettour #smcvt http://pic.twitter.com/CuGiLt9cIGTHISISVTThis is a standard Physics lab in Cheray Science Hall. This building also hosts Chem and Bio. #smcvttweettour #smcvt http://pic.twitter.com/QfFGWdHFRwTHISISVTWe've entered the Academic Quad. Most classes take place in one of these three buildings. #smcvttweettour #smcvt #vt http://yfrog.us/nbu4etsdiwfhxjitvxzblhqtzTHISISVTThere is an average class size of 19. I've had classes of 4. This is where I had Intro to Writing. #smcvttweettour http://pic.twitter.com/Jne90icghcTHISISVTWe have a huge study abroad program here at #smcvt. Where would you go? #smcvttweettour #travel http://pic.twitter.com/dCnsl7jBMUTHISISVTThere isn't much to see in the Teaching Gardens w/ the snow, but I left a note on the chalkboard. #smcvttweettour http://pic.twitter.com/uEbCrAPsD9THISISVTWelcome to McCarthy Arts Center, home to theater and music. "Dead Man Walking" is the spring show. #smcvttweettour http://pic.twitter.com/djvFW8wef9THISISVT#didyouknow that @saintmichaels students ride the CCTA bus for free? We do! It's awesome! #smcvttweettourTHISISVT#smcvttweettour: Ross Sports Center is home to all varsity athletics as well as fitness facilities like… http://instagr.am/p/XCx1-mKD-Q/THISISVTMeet @smcalpineski, my team here at #smcvt. It was awesome to be a 4-year athlete in @eisaskiing. #smcvttweettour http://pic.twitter.com/y2bPUAKPRHTHISISVTThis is one of the best views especially when studying in the Durick Library. #smcvttweettour #smcvt #vt #btv #snow http://pic.twitter.com/M7cIliAblITHISISVTLook at all that white fluffy gold! It makes campus look spectacular! #smcvttweettour #smcvt #vt #btv http://yfrog.us/04ryesnpkptnobjsdwgrglwjzTHISISVTMeet Devin! An #smcvt student who likes St.Mike's because... #smcvttweettour #vt #btv #snow http://yfrog.us/jnl0nvdevhawzzokzbykjqmwzTHISISVTLook at all that white fluffy gold! It makes campus look spectacular! #smcvttweettour #smcvt #vt #btv http://yfrog.us/04ryesnpkptnobjsdwgrglwjzTHISISVTMy #smcvttweettour is done. When you come for your in-person tour, go to this building, Hoehl. #smcvt #vt #btv http://pic.twitter.com/azKYnrbzfmTHISISVTThis #smcvttweettour brought to you by my awesome Sorels without which I would not have been able to survive. #vt http://pic.twitter.com/XyrCpjqBrZTHISISVT

Also, just so you know, Formspring, my go-to Q & A platform, is shutting down, so that will no longer be a location to ask questions. Please use my VYou account for any questions you have!

xoxo
Gabbi

A Hard-Working Start to Spring Break 2013

2013-03-11T19:45:00.000-04:00

The best way to tell you about my weekend is to show you.

xoxo
Gabbi

View the story "Spring Break Begins " on StorifySpring Break Begins My life over the past weekend in tweets, Instagrams, photo albums and articles.Storified by Gabbi Hall· Mon, Mar 11 2013 16:47:32My spring break started a little early this year, but the work didn't stop. Thanks to my awesome professors, I was allowed to miss Wednesday and Friday classes in order to cover the NCAA National Championships at Middlebury Ski Bowl. As a senior who is job hunting, "real world" experience is important and I am fortunate to have professors who support learning outside of the classroom.

My last blog post was all about my experience on Wednesday, March 6, covering the first day at NCAA Nationals. The following is what happened Thursday through Saturday.

Such a good shot of Frederik Sandell '15 from last weekend's NCAA skiing championships, courtesy of Gabbi Hall '13. #smcvtSaint Michael's CollegeI'm excited for another fun day of covering #NCAASkiChamps tomorrow! SL is always exciting and there should be a pretty good crowd!Gabbi HallIt's snowing here on day 3 of #ncaaskichamps! Get excited for some awesome SL racing! #smcvt #mjd219 #ski… http://instagr.am/p/WmSLh9BTbT/Gabbi HallOne thing that has been engrained in me during my four years at St. Mike's is the idea of showing people the things that they can't see. When I'm taking photos, I always ask myself, "What are the things a regular spectator won't see?" This guiding principle led me to photograph the start area of the slalom race as opposed to being on course and taking action shots.Welcome to the top of the #ncaaskichamps SL! Racing starts in 15 minutes. #ncaa #ski #race http://instagr.am/p/WmUEgkhTdJ/Gabbi HallView all of my photos in the following link:NCAA National Championship SL 2013 | FacebookFacebook is a social utility that connects people with friends and others who work, study and live around them. People use Facebook to ke...Nick and Gus of @smcalpineski hanging out at the top of the women's race. #smcvt #ncaa #ski #vtbtv http://instagr.am/p/WmXjVchTRY/Gabbi HallSki racing is a small world. Just ran into my coach from the J3 days. #throwback #Skiing #NCAASkiingChampsGabbi HallQuite a crowd here on the last day of alpine at #ncaaskichamps! http://instagr.am/p/Wm3311BTVC/Gabbi HallL to R: Salty, Willow, Freddo and Karen after the men's second run. #smcvt #ncaaskichamps #ncaa #btv #vt http://instagr.am/p/Wm3-DhhTVJ/Gabbi HallThe Sky View Motel looks legit. By legit, I mean non-existent. #vermontproblems #lol #missing http://instagr.am/p/Wm6DkWBTXp/Gabbi Hall@alpinepressski write-up: done. Photos of #ncaaskichamps: uploaded. Today: #greatsuccess. #smcvt #vt #btvGabbi HallCheck out my latest story for @alpinepressski about today's #NCAASkiChamps: http://bit.ly/10rXvt0 #ncaa #vt #ski #raceGabbi HallFollowing the event, my friend and teammate, Karen, and I went back to campus. Karen is an RA, so she had to check the dorms before break and I needed to write my article for Alpine Press. Once we were back on campus, we were invited back down to Middlebury for a post-NCAA celebration with some friends. Going back down turned out to be a great decision. It was a really fun night with friends from the ski world.Having too much fun :) (@ Two Brothers Tavern) http://4sq.com/16fn8xHGabbi HallLove these fools. Congrats on your NCAAs, Freddo. #smcvt #vt #ncaa http://instagr.am/p/Wn77fZBTfs/Gabbi HallNights like these, the unexpected and unplanned ones, are the best part of college.Gabbi HallOn Saturday, I was scheduled to shadow Ashley Chase, a former WCAX journalist and current CatamounTV (UVM Athletics Communications) employee, to get an idea of how she uses social media on the job. I was also interested in her job as a sports reporter.In 8 hours, the final day of NCAA Skiing Championships will be underway with Nordic freestyle events. Can the #VCats make it back-to-back?Ashley ChaseI woke up to sunny skies, so Karen and I headed to the nordic competition. I had never seen one in person before and it was very interesting.It's a beautiful day in #Middlebury! I'm excited to go watch the final Nordic race of #ncaaskichamps. #vt… http://instagr.am/p/Wo5LckhTfW/Gabbi HallView all of my photos here:NCAA Championship Nordic Classic Race 2013 | FacebookFacebook is a social utility that connects people with friends and others who work, study and live around them. People use Facebook to ke...In a surprise twist, CU Boulder won the overall title. Last year's national champions, the UVM Catamounts, moved from 1st to 3rd on the final day of competition.@cubuffsskiing takes overall team title at #NCAASkiingChamps, @utahskiteam 2nd, @UVMSkiing 3rd with unofficial results. Details to follow.Alpine PressBuffs overcome the biggest third day deficit to win since skiing went co-ed in 1983, today was 54 points, previous was 31. #GoBuffsColorado SkiingOnce home from the nordic race, I took a nap and then put on my khakis to shadow Ashley at the UVM vs BC hockey game at Gutterson Fieldhouse. Hanging out with @ashleychasetv before the #UVM vs #BostonCollege men's ice hockey game! #mjd219 http://instagr.am/p/Wp3BvZhTbt/Gabbi HallView of Gutterson Ice Hockey Rink from the broadcast box. #mjd219 #behindthescenes http://pic.twitter.com/gzbzt4HIzfGabbi Hall@UVMmhockey team is rocking some sweet mullets and Mohawks. #hockey #ncaa #mjd219 http://instagr.am/p/Wp_XNXhTXu/Gabbi Hall@BCHockeyNews is up by one over @UVMmhockey with four minutes left in the period. #hockey #vt #btv #vcats #mjd219Gabbi HallLearned something new: There is no fighting allowed in college ice hockey. So, that's why they are all on their best behavior. #hockeyGabbi HallScore is actually 4-0 now with Boston College leading. Goal was scored while I was applying the filter.… http://instagr.am/p/WqG_5pBTTb/Gabbi HallThanks, @AshleyChaseTV for letting me shadow you this evening! I learned a lot. #mjd219Gabbi HallIt was definitely a learning experience since ice hockey isn't a sport I was remotely interested in until I came to St. Mike's. It was less about how to use social media and more about understanding what is important about the game.

After the game, I went home and took a nice 12 hour nap. I also took a lazy day on Sunday.

Anyone know where and if I can still get Girl Scout cookies in #vt #btv? I really want some thin mints.Gabbi HallMy also texted me on Sunday asking me this:My mom just asked what I need for my graduation beauty budget. She is way more on top of this whole graduating thing than I am. #seniorGabbi HallMy dad says I can't wear "clunky platforms" at graduation. I promised him I wouldn't wear more than a 5" heel. #fashion #seniorGabbi HallSo, today I went to the Essex Outlets and to Church Street to start browsing.Today I'm playing "Say Yes to the Graduation Dress." So many options, maybe I need one for the ceremony and one for after. #jokingGabbi HallAfter about 15 dresses, I found one! It's from Banana Republic and it's pink! I can't purchase the dress until I get Daddy's approval. If he's paying, I'll wait for the thumbs up. I did come home and do some collaging on Polyvore to give myself some inspiration.Graduation Outfit - Possible Accessories @polyvore http://polyv.re/ZB3MQrGabbi HallThink Pink @polyvore http://polyv.re/10wBwgOGabbi HallTomorrow, the real work will begin. I am going to try and tackle a chapter of the book that @lizmurraysmc and I are writing. The more we can get done now, the better off we will be in two weeks.

"Freelance Media Producer" - My Newest LinkedIn "Experience"

2013-03-06T22:20:00.003-05:00

Long story short: I worked at the Burlington Free Press on Town Meeting Day and I am covering the NCAA National Ski Championships for Alpine Press. Therefore, I recently added a new "Experience" heading to my LinkedIn profile.

Photo by Liz Murray
That is my journalism game face.

Now for the fun details: Recently some awesome opportunities have come my way. The Burlington Free Press needed help acquiring the voting numbers after local towns closed their polls on Town Meeting Day. Liz Murray and I hung at out at the BFP office just off of Church St. with Paul, the Defender's executive editor who is an intern there, and Professor Mindich's daughter, who doesn't go to St. Mike's, but was home from college on spring break.

We each sat at desks by the phones. As town clerk's called in, they'd be directed to us and we'd write down all the information such as what budgets passed as well any amendments that were voted on.

Most of the night was pretty slow, but it was my first time in a real news room. It was very interesting to hear the reporters doing phone interviews and talking about paper layout and design.

After hanging out there until 11 pm, I went back to campus and slept until 5 am. At 5 am, I got up and ready. Where was I going, you ask?

Middlebury Ski Bowl for NCAA National Ski Championships!

After covering the Middlebury Carnival for Alpine Press, Christine Feehan asked me to help her out with coverage of nationals. I was flattered to say the least. I think it's safe to say that I did good work the first time.

Feeling official!

For championships, I had to apply for media credentials and I got them. I spent the first run on the hill, taking photos. (You can view them here: NCAA National Championships 2013 - Giant Slalom) For the second run, I hung out at the bottom of the course snapping pictures of athletes coming into the finish. Athletes always have great emotions in the finish, so I like to snap close-ups.

It's also important to be at the bottom in order to get access to the top athletes for interviews. In fact, one of the most interesting parts of today was listening to other journalists ask question. They think differently than I do about what topics to cover and it has a lot of great lessons for me.

Following these experiences, I have added "Freelance Media Producer" to my LinkedIn profile. For a a little bit, I thought I'd simply put "Freelance Journalist," but it didn't seem inclusive enough considering I go take photo and videos as well.

I'm going to be covering Friday's slalom race at nationals as well, so I'm not done yet. When my articles go up, I'll be tweeting the link, so be sure to follow me: @Hall_Gabbi.

Have questions? Ask me on VYou!

xoxo
Gabbi

Doors Open and Close: A State of Affairs

2013-02-26T11:00:00.000-05:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.' We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

- Marianna Williamson

You may be wondering why I started this post with a long inspirational quote. Too be honest, I was going to use one that is super cliched: When door closes, another opens. Instead I reference it in my title and give you the quote which I have tried to keep in mind since I discovered it in the 8th grade.

Everyone wants to blend. People don't want to make mistakes or be weird. I can't sit here and tell you that I haven't done my fair share of blending. That being said I think there is something to be said for a fear of greatness. Greatness means putting yourself out there and risking failure. I figure if you put yourself out there enough times something is bound to stick.

In December, I applied for the Global Academic Fellowship in Writing with the New York University campus in Abu Dhabi. This morning I found out I wasn't short-listed, which was a nice way of them to tell me that I didn't get the position. I'm not devastated and it wasn't my only post-graduation option, but I did really want to go abroad for the year. I could really use a change of pace. While that door has closed, I have to believe that post-graduation options are going to reveal themselves over the next few weeks.

As you are also aware, Saturday marked my retirement from ski racing. It means no more speed suits, inspections or waxing skis. That door closed, but another opportunity in the industry has opened. I have been asked to assist in covering NCAA Nationals hosted by Middlebury College next week. The publication is called "Alpine Press" and I have already written two freelance pieces for them:

Dartmouth Grabs Cats by the Tail at Middlebury Carnival

Catamounts Keep Big Green at Bay to Win Middlebury Carnival

Today I put in my request for a press pass at NCAA Nationals and I am anxiously awaiting an approval email! There is my new open door: freelance journalism. If it helps me stay involved in ski racing, I am totally into it.

I just wanted to give you guys a state of my current affairs in terms of possible post-graduation plans and let you know that while a lot of my life is 'licious, it's not perfect. Have questions? Here are options for asking and contacting me: EMAIL and VYOU.

xoxo

Gabbi

@EISAskiing/NCAA East Championship: My Final Ski Race

2013-02-25T09:05:00.001-05:00

From L to R: Assistant Coach Nick Stagers,
Head Coach Gus Macleod, Christina Billotti, and I after
our final race.

This weekend, Bates College played host to the NCAA East Ski Championships at Sunday River, ME. Championships are always a lot of fun, but this year was special for me because it was my last carnival ever. That's right. I am officially retired and a NARP (Non-athletic regular person).

I spent most of the weekend soaking in all the "lasts." I consciously thought things like:

"This is the last ski I'll ever HAVE to scrape."

"This is the last time I'll wear this Purple Knight speed suit."

"This is the last time I'll be a collegiate skier."

Some lasts are harder than others. Skiing my final giant slalom race on Friday was really sad. It wasn't cry-my-eyes-out sad like I expected, but I did I have the realization that I was definitely going to miss ripping down a GS course and knocking down panels. Below is a video edit done by the SMC Athletics department which shows one of my last GS runs.

While in Sunday River, I took the opportunity to combine my love of photography and skiing as I did so often last year and snapped a ton of photos. Below you can click through the photos of the weekend, which include actions shots and scene-setting shots. I didn't just focus on the Purple Knights as there are photos of racers from several schools on the circuit.

Before I go and get ready for class, I wanted to share with you the social media surrounding my retirement. Some of them are my tweets and some are tweets of congratulations from others. I really did appreciate them and I clearly have some amazing friends and community.

View the story "My Final NCAA East Carnival 2013" on StorifyMy Final NCAA East Carnival 2013The social media activity surrounding my retirement.Storified by Gabbi Hall· Mon, Feb 25 2013 05:58:55... And we're live from the @eisaskiing/ @NCAA East Championships hosted by @BatesAlpineSki! #smcvt #ncaa http://pic.twitter.com/H4JzNKyts3SMC Alpine Ski TeamIt's race day at Sunday River. 9:15 am women's start and I'm bib #24. Couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day for my last GS race.Gabbi Hall@Hall_Gabbi Good luck!Saint Michael'sWomen's second run of the @eisaskiing championship GS will start at 1 pm. First woman is Hall, running 3rd. #smcvtSMC Alpine Ski TeamBy the end of the day, I'll be a retired athlete. Time to charge one last time :)Gabbi Hall@Hall_Gabbi Congrats on a great 4 years Gabbi!Marci WoodI also had tweets from my two friends and fellow NARPS from the swim team, Andrea Munar and Emma Hauser. They are two of the most awesome people I've ever met and their support meant so much!Saint Michael's takes 10th at EISA Championship, buoyed by four top-21 showings http://bit.ly/W0fDcd @SMCAlpineSkiSaint Michael's VTRetired! Peace out, @eisaskiing! #smcvtGabbi HallMy sis on my retirement from ski racing: "Congratulations! You never got beat by your sister." Nothing like a little sibling rivalry :)Gabbi Hall

Be sure to look for my upcoming post "Retirement: An Inside Look at NARP-hood," all about how I am surviving with all of my free time. It should be pretty interesting! Have a great week everyone! xoxo Gabbi

Being an Editor for the @SMC_Defender - A Vlog with @LizMurraySMC

2013-02-18T20:03:00.004-05:00

Good evening, everyone!

Tonight I bring you a bit of entertainment infused with information. Liz and I are both SMC Bloggers and editors for the Defender. Instead of writing about being writers and editors, we decided to vlog about it. I also needed to show Liz the wonders of vlogging and what better way to do it than to talk about what is like to work for the paper?

We may come off as a little kooky, but it's only because we have spent so much time working together over the past few years and think we are absolutely hysterical.

Enjoy!

Liz's blog: lizmurrayblog.blogspot.com

Liz's Twitter: @LizMurraySMC

Also follow: #quotesfromgabbisego

The Defender Facebook: www.facebook.com/thedefendersmc

The Defender Twitter: @SMC_Defender

Online edition: defender.smcvt.edu

Tips for Surviving and Thriving Your Senior Year

2013-02-14T11:58:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I did a vlog (video blog) and decided that instead of just telling you about my life as a student, I'd tell you four things that can make your senior year of college great or, at least, easier to survive!

xoxo
Gabbi
Twitter: @Hall_Gabbi
Google+: +Gabbi Hall
Formspring: www.formspring.me/gabbismc

Behind the Scenes of 'Ruthless' - A Multimedia for the @SMC_Defender

2013-02-13T11:01:00.000-05:00

Dear loyal and amazing blog readers,

I apologize for the short absence. These past few weeks have been chaotic between Defender, Senior Seminar and skiing. I promise that I do have something to show for all my time away from The 'Licious Life.

Behold my first multimedia of the semester, "Behind the Scenes of 'Ruthless.'" I took a look at the production of a new school musical put on by the drama department. I'd love to hear your feedback on the piece. Also, let me know what you want covered in future Defender pieces.

Now, it's time for Social Media Practice and Theory. I promise that a more extensive post is coming soon!

xoxo

Gabbi

Juggling Multiple Responsibilities and Goals: Marketing/PR vs. Journalism

2013-01-28T22:33:00.000-05:00

"College is easy," said no one ever.

Now, try combining classes, clubs and sports. College is anything, but easy.

In case you haven't heard, here are the things I am involved with on campus:

My Tour Guide Bio

You can see that these various activities have different goals. As a member of the SMC Blogs team, the goal is to help prospective students and families to learn about life at St. Mike's. The same goes for my position as a tour guide. As a member of the Defender staff, I am dedicated to covering campus news, events, and sports. I am also dedicated to doing it in a way that seeks the truth behind a story and doesn't give a public relations spin. However, above all else, I identify as a student-athlete.

My Athlete Bio

One of the toughest jobs I have is balancing these goals. I'm currently pursuing a story that displays an athletic team in a less-then-flattering light. It's a prime example of the juggling act I am currently performing. I have found that despite my love of marketing and public relations, I am more interested in writing a truthful and interesting story for the paper that is going to create conversation. I also think that it is commendable to tell people the best available version of the truth. That is what the news is, according to several of my professors. It is also our job to tell the stories that will not be in the press releases put out by the school. I also struggle with my position as a writer and my commitment to being a student-athlete. I have loved being a student-athlete and would never want anyone there to think I am attacking them while I pursue a story and request interviews.

Like I've said, I'm juggling a lot of rolls and commitments. I write this blog post not to discourage from getting involved with as many clubs and activities as possible, but to prepare you for the fact that you may also walk the line.

My SMC Blogs Bio

Note that the criss-crossing of commitments can also lead to advantages. Without my position as a student-athlete, there are a lot of interviews that wouldn't have been granted and maybe even answers I wouldn't have received. The programs I'm involved in have helped me build relationships.

The bottom line is: The challenges of college don't always just involve time management, home sickness, and studying. Sometimes college challenges the way you think, act and think about yourself and those can be the hardest of them all.

Have questions? Ask me here: http://vyou.com/hall_gabbi (You can ask anonymously if you'd like!)

You can also shoot me an email if you want to talk: ghall@mail.smcvt.edu

xoxo

Gabbi

Skiing Update: Time to Remember How to Race

2013-01-23T15:39:00.003-05:00

Photo by: Gabbi Hall

Hello world,

You're probably abundantly aware that it is ski season. If you're from New England, I hope you aren't frozen solid today. For my non-New Englanders, it's been "Feels like -20" all day, so we're just trying to stay warm.

The first two carnivals on the EISA circuit were hosted by UVM and SLU. Overall, I haven't been thrilled with my results. I got 20th in the giant slalom last Friday, which was my best result so far this season. Last season my best result was 11th, so I need to get myself together to get back to that level.

Photo by: Gabbi Hall

On the other hand, I am also happy to say that I am really enjoying my senior year of racing. It is my last season of competition and so I am striving to enjoy every run and race. The goal is always to race well and do well for the team, but I've made it a personal goal to make sure that I enjoy myself and don't take anything to seriously.

Photo by: Gabbi Hall

One of things I like to do while I'm at races is take photos. It started as a hobby during my photojournalism class and now I just think its great. It relaxes me between runs and then I end up with some cool photos. The photos in this post are of two St. Mike's male skiers and a UVM male skier. The problem with racing is that I rarely can take photos of the ladies because I am competing. 90% of my photos are of the men. I will say that the men's races are easier to photograph.

Tomorrow, I head to Sugarloaf, ME with the team for the Colby College carnival. Please keep your fingers crossed for me! I love this hill and could use a solid finish in both events.

Talk to you all soon!
xoxo
Gabbi

Principles of Business Communications

2013-01-21T20:44:00.000-05:00

Because I had open space in my schedule, the only thing I had to worry about was if I'd be able to ski. I've never taken a business course before, so I decided that now was a good time. I signed up for Principles of Business Communication with Erik Kaarla. As a communications major and someone who has worked in a business (and we all will at some point), I thought that it couldn't hurt to have a little experience with the basics of formal business communication practices.

The course covers a variety of topics including public speaking, which I am most excited about. I've done a lot of public speaking in my life and, to be honest, I rather like it. I think having a class that focuses on that is extraordinarily important in any major. There will be points in everyone's career where they need to speak publicly. I think they need to make it an LSC class in my personal opinion.

I have my first presentation tomorrow. Kaarla divided the class into groups of 4 to 5 people on day one. The groups were selected at random and each team picked a chapter of the book to cover. Our initial instinct was to grab one at the end. However, knowing the state I am going to be in in March and April (sleep-deprived and crazy), I suggested we take one of the first presentations. There are several reasons I like to go first, but my favorite is that you can set the standard. I like to set the bar high as you are probably already aware.

In order to be true to my personal presentation style, I used Prezi to make our presentation. We broke the chapter into 5 sections: one for each member, plus a section for class participation at the end. (Feel free to watch the Prezi below.)

The participation section includes each student formulating business-appropriate responses to one of the given scenarios. Students will be selected at random and will be asked to read their response aloud to the class. We will then open the floor to discussion about what the good and bad are of the response they wrote. (Keep your fingers crossed that the whole presentation runs smoothly.)

I have a love-hate relationship with group projects. They divide up the work, which is nice, but often times members are at different levels of public speaking abilities and levels of caring about the project. I don't care that this class isn't for my major and that I took it just for the credits. I care deeply about the impression I put forward and grade I receive at the end of the semester.

I promise to keep you updated on the class and let you know about any interesting projects we do this semester. I hope you are all having a good 2013 so far.

xoxo
Gabbi

Social Media Practice and Theory - A New #SMCVT Class (#mjd219)

2013-01-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

As you are probably aware, classes at St. Michael's College started on Monday. If you are a regular reader, you know that this is my last semester at the college. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting my diploma in May. In order to get there, I need to take a few more classes.

Lucky for me, the Media Studies, Journalism and Digital Arts department hired Michelle Jeffery, the coordinator of marketing and communications at Vermont Public Radio, to teach Social Media Practice and Theory. It is brand new course, which has never been offered before. I am thrilled to see the department providing a class in a media topic, which is clearly infiltrating our lives.

The course description states that we will explored Twitter and Facebook primarily with projects involving exploring many of the other social networks like Instagram. LinkedIn, Google+ and Foursquare. Let's just say that I should probably change my middle to name to "social media." We filled out a social media diet survey for the class and I had tried all of the social networks plus a few. I'm the girl that uses Twitter as a texting system and runs an aggressive amount of Facebook brand pages. I'm ALMOST embarrassed about my small obsession.... ALMOST.

The good news is I'm familiar with all the platforms, so I'm not coming into the class blind. If I was coming in blind, that'd be embarrassing considering I'm the Online Media and Communications coordinator at the school.

Assignments for the class will include participating in class discussions using #mjd219 on Twitter or in our Facebook group, shadowing a local journalist who uses social media and writing a story using social media sources and crowd sourcing.

The cover of our book proposal.

Perhaps the thing I like most so far is the fact is the mix of people in the class. I recognize many of them, but I've never had class with most of them, which will make for new and interesting conversation. The second best part is that it will be a great course in relation to the book Liz and I are writing on media events in the 21st century with emphasis on social media and the way we engage with the television.

Now, I have to go because class starts soon. Let me know if you have any questions: www.formspring.me/gabbismc .

xoxo
Gabbi

The First EISA Carnival of 2013

2013-01-16T09:52:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I took a two week vacation from blogging for a few reasons, but the greatest was that I was back on campus skiing for two weeks with the team and was regularly exhausted. Plus, we all need a break from the norm, don't we? You'll be glad to know that now I am back for my final semester at St. Mike's. (Cue the ominous music.)

Before I jump into blog posts about my academic life as a senior, I want to share with you a little bit about the first EISA (Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Association) Carnival of the season.

For those of you who aren't skiers, a "carnival" is just the name for a college race. While vastly entertaining like the original definition, there are no masks, public street parties, or parades.

Photo from the SMC Alpine Ski Team
Taken from the bottom of the Stowe GS

The University of Vermont hosted the first race at Stowe Mountain Resort, which is like a home hill for us. We train their twice a week along with our time at Smuggler's Notch. While I have had a countless number of runs on the race hill, this season I had had a minimal number of days in gates compared to many of the people competing or even compared to some of my team mates.

I didn't ski terribly this past weekend, but it certainly wasn't my best performance. I was solid, but did not have my regular, awesome self. (Please excuse the self-flattery.)

As for the other skiers on the team, the men had stand-out performances in slalom on Saturday. Fredrik Sandell grabbed a podium spot, coming in third. Carl Oscar Bredengen came in 19th and Brad Farrell came in 22nd. This places the men's team in 3rd for the day.

Following the alpine race, the team sits in 9th place. The nordic part of the race isn't for three weeks, so we won't know final results for a while.

In case you don't know, the nordic and alpine ski teams train separately, but in terms of EISA team rankings, our results are combined.

My friend, Kelly from SLU, and I at Stowe

At the end of the day, the UVM Carnival was a fairly uneventful race. The obvious highlight for the team was Fredrik's podium. I was personally excited to see all of my friends who are from other schools like St. Lawrence, Dartmouth, and Middlebury.

The team heads to Lake Placid this weekend for the St. Lawrence University Carnival. If you are interested, check out Live-Timing and "watch" the races. Keep your fingers crossed for us!

xoxo
Gabbi

My New Year's Resolutions 2013

2012-12-29T14:19:00.000-05:00

Here's how I feel about New Year's resolutions: They are a really nice thought.

Who doesn't want to improve themselves? I'd love to be a little less snarky, eat a little healthier, and spend a little less money on clothes. However, I don't think that telling myself, "Starting Jan. 1, I am only going to eat vegetables and never enjoy cheesecake again," is really a sound way to get healthy and change my life. (Let's be honest, I'm NEVER giving up cheesecake. It's too tasty.) Maybe that works for some, but I certainly don't function that way.

This year, I'm going to work to be better for other people and here are my resolutions for doing so:

1) Be a better leader.

One of my biggest leadership roles is as the Online Media and Communications Coordinator at St. Michael's College. I run the SMC Blogs program with the marketing and admissions offices. At any given time, I have up to 30 bloggers to coordinate with. Lucky for me, they do a great job 99% of the time and are easy to organize. However, the nature of blogging is anti-social. I'd like to be better friends with the team by seeing more of them in person even if it just means more "hellos" as we all run back and forth across campus. It's tough because we are also so busy and fabulous, but in the new year, I'd like to be able to get to know each of them a little better.

2) Be a more supportive team mate.

Racing in the St. Lawrence Carnival 2011

Ski racing is a funny sport. It's about the individual skier, but at the end of the day, they rank us as a team. I was captain of the team my sophomore year and while I am no longer captain (and happily so) I try to be a supportive teammate and leader without the title. (Note to student-athletes: Being captain is an honor and also a big responsibility. If and when you are voted in, remember that its no longer all about you.) What you may not know is that the alpine and nordic ski teams are under the same umbrella. We share a ski room and our results effect each others rankings. I hope that this year we will be able to get the nordic and alpine teams to hang out a little bit more and support each other. I am also going to make a concerted effort to cheer for everyone one of my teammates at the races even if it is cold outside.

3) Spend as much time with my friends as possible.

Sarah and I (as goofy today as we were freshman year)

(Okay, this resolution is a little more selfish.) Sometimes I feel like a broken record, telling you about how amazing my friends are and how we've known each other since day one at St. Mike's. It's all true and I hope that everyone has the experience that I have had. My goal this semester is to spend as much time with those friends as possible because, in May, we will be going our separate ways. While most St. Mike's grads will be on the east coast and relatively near each other, I intend to go farther away. At a minimum, I plan to be in Los Angeles. At a maximum, I will be at NYU Abu Dhabi, working as a fellow. (I'm praying for the Abu Dhabi fellowship. My heart literally races every time I think about it.) This semester, I want to go skiing with my non-ski-team friends because I haven't skied with them since freshman year. I want to have a ton of socials with the Acabellas. Now is the time for me to do all the things I've wanted to during my time at St. Mike's.

4) Leave a mark.

My favorite quote is: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. - Marianne Williamson

I have spent the past four years trying to live what I believe is the meaning of the quote. I said, "I'm going to college. Time to go big or go home." I didn't come to college to have an average experience and simply graduate with a degree. I wanted more out of my fours years. In May, I'd like to know that I've left a mark on the school in some way. I hope I have inspired someone, encouraged someone, helped someone, or changed someone. I think we all fear being forgotten and I hope that 2013 is the year I leave an indelible mark on St. Mike's.

I hope you all have an amazing New Year's celebration and that 2013 is the year you change the world. I'll talk to you all next year. If you have any questions about St. Mike's or me, feel free to ask anonymously on Formspring.

xoxo
Gabbi

A Letter to the @SaintMichaels Class of 2017

2012-12-19T00:27:00.001-05:00

Dear Class of 2017,

Welcome to the family. You've probably heard that before and you'll hear it time and time again. I just want you to know that even though we may never have classes together or be in the same club, the St. Michael's family extends beyond the barriers of orientation and graduation.

Meet my immediate family at St. Mike's. I have lived with
two of the girls pictured and I ate dinner with two
other girls nearly every night freshman thru junior year.
This is us in September of freshman year before the
Highlighter Dance.

We all know the pros and cons of families. There are the crazy uncles, the obnoxious siblings, the parents who have an opinion, the grandparents who always ask if you are dating, and the cool cousins who are almost too cool to talk to you. One of the bonuses of being a member of the family that raised you is unconditional love. The con is that you don't get to choose your immediate family. At St. Michael's, I can't promise that you'll like everyone or that everyone will like you. I can't promise the love you have for your friends will be unconditional. However, you will get to choose your immediate St. Michael's family. Like siblings, you and your immediate family members--whether you choose your floor mates, teammates, or fellow club members--will bicker from time to time. What you will find is that you can work through most of the arguments. Your immediate family at St. Mike's is the family that you go to when you need to share the good, the bad, and the ugly. My immediate family hardly ever lets me live down my embarrassing moments, but they also never fail to pat me on the back and support me when I need it.

Who knows? Maybe you'll find yourself working in West
Hollywood, CA on Sunset Blvd and walking your first
red carpet like I did this summer!

With such a great support system in place, I encourage you to see the possibilities for your own success. As an incoming student, I was 100% set on becoming a broadcast journalist. It was my be-all, end-all career. I'm not going to lie. I still aspire to be a Ellen-Oprah hybrid down the road, but I find that as graduation approaches I have a slightly overwhelming number of options because of the skills that St. Michael's provided. I am currently applying to positions like "Social Media Editor," "Digital Media Coordinator," and "Marketing Assistant." I never expected to get into marketing as a first-year. Even now, a semester away from graduation, I am rethinking the possibilities. I've discovered I love to teach, so I am applying for a writing fellowship at NYU Abu Dhabi, where I will get to work with first-year students as a writing coach, pursue my own work, and travel. I hope that you will keep an open mind throughout your four years here because you never know where you might end up and the adventure you might go on.

So whether your a little "carpe diem" or a little "yolo," I encourage you to embrace the St. Michael's experience, your new quirky mismatched family, and the awkward (definitely embarrassing) moments you'll share during your first year as a Purple Knight.

I look forward to meeting some of you this spring on tours and at Accepted Student Days. If you have questions, please ask me questions on VYou.

Sincerely,
Gabbi

Finals Week Wrap-Up: DVD Portfolio, Little Bellas, and the Acabellas Concert

2012-12-16T19:09:00.000-05:00

The great thing about the media studies department is that you create work that you can use in a portfolio. In fact, in the course of your time in the program, you'll create web portfolios and potentially DVD portfolios. The idea is to a) test the skills from particular courses and b) give students portfolios that they can give to potential employers.

To the right is my portfolio cover for my DVD. Within my DVD, I included videos, photos, and pages from the Defender. I market myself in the DVD as a photographer, videographer, and writer. I'm rather happy with the way it turned out. As you can tell, I designed the cover to match my blog. I think my personal brand should be consistent. Someone told me they thought the navy, white, and calligraphy was pretentious, but I think it is classic and simple.

One of the videos on my DVD is for the Little Bellas, a non-profit in VT (and going national) which strives to get more girls on mountain bikes. Embedded is the three minute cut of the film. There is also a 10-min cut if you are interested in watching the full length version, which I had to create for Adventure Film.

Let's be honest. Creating a DVD portfolio is NOT the worst way to spend finals week. I could have had a *gulp* exam.

On a more fun note, the Acabellas had our winter concert the Saturday before finals to a large crowd in McCarthy Arts Center.

We premiered some new music including "Zombies" by the Cranberries, "Some Nights" by Fun., and "One Fine Day" by the Chiffons. The video above is "Some Nights" and, in my opinion, it was the best song of the afternoon.

Now, I am going to enjoy the couch and make my dad watch "The Holiday." (Yes, the one with Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black and Jude Law. Sorry I'm not sorry, Dad. <3 p="p">
Happy Holidays! xoxo
Gabbi

What It Means to Study MJD: An A to Z Guide

2012-12-06T14:38:00.002-05:00

Here at St. Mike's I am a proud, 4-year member of the media studies department. Bergeron has been my second home and the professors have been stand-in parents. (Okay, the parent thing is a bit extreme, but they do look out for me.) Here is a comprehensive A-Z guide to the Media Studies, Journalism and Digital Arts department.

A - Awesome. I had to say it. The MJD department is small and tight-knit, meaning students get one-on-one teaching from professors; hands-on experience in media whether it's journalism, marketing, or videography; and a network of students and alumni who want to help each other.

B - Bergeron. Bergeron is the media studies building. Located next to the tennis courts, it is a one-story building with computer labs and the professor's offices. Talk to most majors and they will tell you this is their second home. Talk to most students and they'll have no idea what Bergeron is.

C - Competitve. I don't mean cut-throat, Hunger-Games competitive. I mean that students within the department and within classes push each other. With each project, news article, or presentation, students are raising the bar.

D - Design. Part of the Digital Arts section of the major includes design projects for both print and web using programs in the Adobe Design Suite. The major gives you knowledge of platforms such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere.

Courtesy of the SMC Defender
That is the Fall 2012 Editorial Staff.

E - Editing. If you choose to take on the addition of journalism (It is five extra courses.), you will take Publication Editing and Design. You will work as an editor for the paper and not only edit the writers in your class, but you will work reporters in Investigative Reporting.

F - Fun. Sorry I'm not sorry for being corny. Through all the hard work and late nights, I have so many fun experiences. This department teaches courses such as "Adventure Film Making" and "Media and American Politics," both of which have incredible learning components outside the classroom.

G - Global Communications. In school you hear horror stories about particular professors, certain exams, or even some classes. Within MJD, Global Comm (as students call it) is one of those classes. I will promise you this: It's not that bad. It's a few big web design projects which require analysis of global media paired with a discussion-based course. I actually looked forward to attending this class.

H - Hectic. I tend to tell really bad jokes on tours. One of them has to do with me running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Now I'm not saying I'm always stressed and crazy. I will say that sometimes I procrastinate and my life gets a little hectic. Just prepared to learn time management.

I - Impressive. I am constantly impressed by the work that students produce within the department. We have extraordinary talent in both students and professors. More importantly, the people with talent are willing to help all of us.

J - Journalism. The MJD department was previously known as Journalism and Mass Communications. In my sophomore year, the deparment transitioned. Majors are now Media Studies and Digital Arts majors and can opt into having an emphasis in journalism. I am one of those people and highly recommend adding it on.

K - Knight. MJD students may live in Bergeron, but it doesn't mean we are seperate from the rest of the school. Unlike many schools, students at St. Mike's move between departments across campus. I take theater classes and political science majors take media classes. Above all else, we are Purple Knights.

L - Law. You probably weren't expecting this one, but law plays a huge role in our rights as journalists. We are the ONLY profession protected by an amendment. There are also many rules in terms of what is libelous and how far can we push.

M - Media Studies. Media studies means studying how the human experience is changed by media including how we interact with technology, social media, ect.

N - New Media. New media is now known as Digital Media, but the class hasn't changed. This is one of the intro level courses all MJD students take which teaches you the basics of Photoshop, Illustrator, and Dreamweaver.

O - Observation. Part of the senior research proposal is observation. We are required to observe events, meetings, and people relating to our chosen topics. Observation is a key way in which we can draw new conclusions for our projects.

P - Possibilities. The MJD department opens up a world of opportunities for students. Just because I came into the department sure that I was going to be a broadcast journalist doesn't mean the classes wouldn't open my eyes to my potential in marketing and public relations. This department is about more than just journalism.

Q - Question. This is simple enough. As a reporter and student of the department, you ask alot of questions both of professors and sources. Don't be afraid to ask about what is on your mind.

R - Revolution. Media revolutions is an introductory media studies course that all majors and minors take. Like a history course it looks at a media timeline and discusses its effects on society.

S - Sensationalism. In our writing classes, we are constantly learning to walk the line between engaging journalism and sensationalism. It is part of the ethical battle of being a journalist.

T - Technology. As an MJD major, you have access to some very cool technology including video cameras, DSLR cameras, waterproof cameras, and helmet cameras.

U - Undervalued. I believe that the potential of the MJD department is extremely undervalued. Without this department, I never would've become an intern in Los Angeles, competed in a film festival, produced a paper, or become an adventure film maker. I now see the potential.

V - Vicious. Admittedly, that's an aggressive word choice, but I use it here to describe the passion of the students. Students are willing to pursue their passions with furver. We all want and expect big things from ourselves and we can be our harshest critics.

W - Winners. Our school always puts together a team for the VT International Film Festival "Sleepless in Burlington" competition. We didn't win this year, but maybe you can be on next year's winning team?

X - ..... Well, this is awkward, but after looking through the dictionary, I am finding no appropriate words that start with "x"...

Y - Year. It's amazing what you'll learn in a year in this department. At the end of your freshman year, you could know how to create entire websites and design logos. Now, those skills create some possibilities.

Z - Zany. Every department has their quirks. We have a lot of them, but maybe we just notice them more because we spend more time together than in most departments. I love the program and all the people in it.

Now you've heard our ABC's. I hope you join MJD.

xoxo
Gabbi

Questions? www.formspring.me/gabbismc or ghall@mail.smcvt.edu

Media Events in the 21st Century - Analysis of Social Media and The Way We Watch TV (Book)

2012-12-02T18:44:00.000-05:00

That's the title page of our proposal

Hello Everyone! Happy Holidays!

If you haven't heard, I'm writing a book with my good friend, Liz Murray, and on Thursday night, we turned in our 31-page, 16,000 word proposal.

We have been working towards our final proposal all semester and it is a relief to have it done. Now, of course, we actually have to write the book.

Now without giving too much away, I want to share some of our working arguments we are addressing.

News events, under particular circumstances, can qualify as media events in the digital age.
In order for something to be called a media event, there must be a conversation about it over social media.
Television still remains the primary medium for media events, but people are more often having a multiple screen experience when viewing media events.
The viewing experience of media events has gone from a reality-based community to a virtually-based community.

Oh my god, Santa!!

To be honest, I need a break from media events and research. What I need is a holiday! In less than two weeks, I'll be home in Lake Tahoe and I can't wait. I do have a few things to finish up in the mean time. For example, this weekend was the Alumni, Faculty, and Staff Christmas Party. Founder's Society members volunteer to help out with crafts for the children of the school community. The best part is that Santa made an appearance. In fact, one of our fabulous admissions counselors, Jeremy Brown, played Santa.

Also, today I laid out the last Defender of the semester. That's right! Issue #9 is going to be printed on Tuesday. To be honest, I am really relieved to be done with full time Defender. It is really rewarding to put together a paper, but it is also exhausting and occasionally stressful.

Despite that I have decided to stay on next semester as a Multimedia Editor, meaning I get to take photos, video, and audio. I'm doing it as a 2-credit course and it should be a lot of fun. At the very least, I get to do a lot of fun projects next semester.

Now, I am off to McCarthy Arts Center for an Acabellas rehearsal. Have a great night!

xoxo

Gabbi