*LONDON OR BUST.....*

Okay so the count down for my study abroad to London is getting closer and closer. I cannot wait until I hop on the plane, and fly across the pond. Paying the bills, getting my visa together, and preparing my life (along with some stress) is all worth it. Lately it has been hard to stay focused with all of this advance planning, and trying to maintain myself this semester. But I know that the hard work is going to pay off. Despite the fact that I may come back with a little less cash in my pocket, I know it is going to be worth the wait, time, and energy. I have London on my mind, and it's exciting.

Communications: Newhouse vs. Visual and Performing Arts

Okay, so I had the opportunity to be a student Ambassador for VPA and talk with parents and students about the VPA college in general, and specifically about the different departments. Well, when I spoke with students who were interested in Communication and Rhetorical studies, people thought it was television and reporting. Not discrediting Newhouse whatsoever, but VPA communication is not like Newhouse, but does have similar characteristics incorporated into the programs. I just want to clarify only a few points about each so that maybe students will understand the difference.

VPA: Communications:

*People based- (as a CRS major you are a people-person. You will learn how to interact with an assortment of people and learn how to go from impersonal to interpersonal)

*Rhetoric- The amazing word that everyone wants to know what means. (book definition- the art of finding in any given situation the avaliable means of persuasion) Basically, you know how to make a legitament point of perspective and back it up

* Argumentation- For all of you people out there who love to argue this is for you- but CRS takes it a step further with learning how to argue with a purpose and making points

* Writing- Learn how to express yourself through personal writing, and articulate points through other text that you will be reading.

You will also learn how to present yourself in a small and large group setting and by dynamic in the sense that you have confidence and know what and how to present your topic.

Newhouse communication-

*Business oriented- if you are more intersted in the business side to communication, such as producer for television, advertising, and public relations. This is great for you

Communication in Newhouse is more for a broader perspective of the business, as compared to VPA communication which is of more individual development.

Both departments are exceptional and have amazing strengths and students who leave both departments prepared for the real world. It simply depends on what you are looking for.