Hello all new Angie students. One of the main topics of interest in this class is a client-based project that is design to help smaller organizations around the area update their business in some way that helps them catch up to the times. For our class, we helped the Habitat for Humanities in Anderson. The current website used by the Habitat organization in Anderson was not very complete and had many areas that we could help them improve. We were able to also add new aspects that they had not thought of yet. One example is the addition of a pay pal account, so customers could shop online. We also learned how to enhance websites with colors, pictures, and different designs.
One of the main concerns with helping your client this semester is going to be teamwork. It is important to organize and communicate throughout your team because there can be many conflicting schedules. Also, knowledge on computers and web-based design can help enhance your contribution to the class. One other big main concerns with doing well on the client-based project, is to have good communication with the organization you are helping. You are essentially working for them, and need to take into consideration their view on the work you are doing. For example, making sure the design is acceptable.
Honestly,for you new English 304 students, I would say the last important thing to do for this class is to keep a positive attitude. This goes out to all my fellow shy people. In my opinion, Angie is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. She is so sincere and smiles way to much for some of it not to wear off on you throughout the semester. She makes it easy for you to open up to her, and at the end of the semester you will feel like she is your friend instead of just your teacher. She is very open-minded and is willing to do everything she can to help you succeed. You also learn some good practical information to help in your everyday life.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Crunch Time
Alright, it is officially the last week of the regular season (school). Before I enter the playoffs, I still have to prove myself in two divisional games (Accounting and Finance test) before I know if I am just a wild card or true contender. I have a feeling that I am going to be burnt out this year before exam week, which can never be good. Not to mention I have five exams, one on everyday exams are possible next week, and this Saturday coming up. It is always hard to see how fast the semester goes by and the changes that have occurred throughout the semester. I guess this is just a rant blog, but thanks for listening, I do feel a little better. I am sure if I can just stay focused for two more weeks, I will be one step closer to completing my ultimate goal of graduating. I will only have six more classes to take in the spring and then it is off into the real world, where who knows what I will be doing.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Reflection on Article
I agree with this article for the most part. I believe that if you surround your company with good people, it will enhance the chances of being successful. Like they said, it is easy to teach someone a task, but they have to teach themselves how to be responsible, honest people themselves. I probably would not have been able to conduct my interview at Kaboom, due to the fact I would not be able to leave the room like a playground. I like the idea they had behind that. One interview style that seemed odd to me was Microsoft's belief in ten hour interviews. Yes, you get a good idea of how the person really is, but i do not care who you are you have to start getting irritated about hour three. Maybe that's just me. This article opened me up to new and interesting ways of interviewing that I will keep in the memory banks for future use.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Dual Coding
The dual coding theory states that processing for verbal and non-verbal inputs for humans are equal. Paivio (1986) states: "Human cognition is unique in that it has become specialized for dealing simultaneously with language and with nonverbal objects and events. Moreover, the language system is peculiar in that it deals directly with linguistic input and output (in the form of speech or writing) while at the same time serving a symbolic function with respect to nonverbal objects, events, and behaviors. Any representational theory must accommodate this dual functionality." That is a serious definition. For the sake of advertising, this theory implies that it is important to code the message you are trying to convey in different styles. This will allow for more people to be reached by your message.
One example of dual coding I have noticed in advertising this week is in a commercial by a camouflage company, Mossy Oak. The commercial shows different hunting backgrounds where the hunter is slowly made visible to the viewer. This is a direct appeal to images, so the potential buyer can see how effective the product is suppose to be. Second, during the whole commercial they are whispering. This is to make you think you are actually in the woods, and one with the commercial. I felt this commercial was especially effective in showing dual coding.
One example of dual coding I have noticed in advertising this week is in a commercial by a camouflage company, Mossy Oak. The commercial shows different hunting backgrounds where the hunter is slowly made visible to the viewer. This is a direct appeal to images, so the potential buyer can see how effective the product is suppose to be. Second, during the whole commercial they are whispering. This is to make you think you are actually in the woods, and one with the commercial. I felt this commercial was especially effective in showing dual coding.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Reflection on Group Work
So far my feelings toward my group are positive. At times it has been hard to arrandge schedules to match up, but always can find a way. I feel each person in our group can bring something different and vital to the table when doing our project. I know I have no artistic ability and having Sal in my group helped a lot when it came to the design. He did some things I never knew you could do with regards to color arrangement and structure that really helped bring the proposal together. I believe we are able to feed off each other's ideas which helps us all get on the same page with one another. Everyone shows up to all meetings ready to work and preared with materials we assigned during previous meetings.
Overall, our group works good together and has the potential for great things.
Overall, our group works good together and has the potential for great things.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Mock Interview
Well today was the big day, and to tell you the truth it was not that bad. I felt like the interview flowed smoothly, and never really had any awkward pauses. There was that one time I did have to ask you to repeat the question. From this I learned it is not very advisable to stray too far away from the question when trying to explain or give a little background because it can be easy to forget where your thoughts were going.
The major thing with this interview or any other interview is to practice. Practice, practice, practice. Pretending to answer questions in the mirror allowed me to feel like I am one step ahead instead of three steps behind. Even though there will be some questions you have not practiced, it is easier to draw an answer when you are fresh and prepared. I know you said if I was nervous at all you could not tell, well the truth is I was a little before the interview, but it is kind of hard for you to make anyone feel uncomfortable I would imagine. Also with being prepared comes being on time. Thankfully, I was able to make the interview a little early, so I could just clear my mind and take some deep breaths before it was show time. One last topic I would like to stress is the importance of eye contact. When being questioned, it is important to show that the interviewer has your complete attention.
I am glad this was an assignment now. Like I said this was my first "mock interview" and did not really know what you were going to through at me. What I learned is that it is important to have confidence in yourself and to know the difference between coming off sincere and coming off cocky. I guess once the interview started, I just got into a groove or a zone and took it for all it was worth, I had nothing to loose right. Overall, the experience showed me that I can perform in an interview and made me start thinking of new questions to start asking myself so I can be even more prepared next time.
The major thing with this interview or any other interview is to practice. Practice, practice, practice. Pretending to answer questions in the mirror allowed me to feel like I am one step ahead instead of three steps behind. Even though there will be some questions you have not practiced, it is easier to draw an answer when you are fresh and prepared. I know you said if I was nervous at all you could not tell, well the truth is I was a little before the interview, but it is kind of hard for you to make anyone feel uncomfortable I would imagine. Also with being prepared comes being on time. Thankfully, I was able to make the interview a little early, so I could just clear my mind and take some deep breaths before it was show time. One last topic I would like to stress is the importance of eye contact. When being questioned, it is important to show that the interviewer has your complete attention.
I am glad this was an assignment now. Like I said this was my first "mock interview" and did not really know what you were going to through at me. What I learned is that it is important to have confidence in yourself and to know the difference between coming off sincere and coming off cocky. I guess once the interview started, I just got into a groove or a zone and took it for all it was worth, I had nothing to loose right. Overall, the experience showed me that I can perform in an interview and made me start thinking of new questions to start asking myself so I can be even more prepared next time.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Presentation Week
This week we had our five minute presentations in class. I chose to keep it educational and speak of alternatives form of energy we can use instead of fossil fuels. Some of the presentations I remember the most were the ones that informed me on topics I knew nothing or close to nothing about. First, was that presentation on Colorodo. That was a pretty elaborate presentation with a lot to soak in, but I believe I did make the comment to Sal that I was glad that I did not have to follow that. I have lived in South Carolina my whole life and rarely get out, so seeing some of the landscape and towns were interesting.
I did find Sal's presentation interesting as well. I have never been able to do things with my hands well, i do not know why. I would like to have something I made to call my own like those steps he was working on. I know it takes a lot of hard work and a good design. All in all the presentations kept my interest throughout, and I also learned a few things. It also makes me more comfortable with the class once you have to stand up in front of them and take control. I don't know, its been a long week.
I did find Sal's presentation interesting as well. I have never been able to do things with my hands well, i do not know why. I would like to have something I made to call my own like those steps he was working on. I know it takes a lot of hard work and a good design. All in all the presentations kept my interest throughout, and I also learned a few things. It also makes me more comfortable with the class once you have to stand up in front of them and take control. I don't know, its been a long week.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Free Blog Week of Oct.1
Well I guess since this week I can write about anything, I have to talk about the race that went down today. Today was the first time the car-of-tomorrow (COT) has gone racing on a super speedway. It ended up working alright, it looked really bad fast in the draft, but no matter what car you bring to Talladega I guess we will never be able to avoid the "big one." This year it was on lap 145, and collected eleven drivers, among which were three chasers. It was good to see Michael Waltrip on the pole. Maybe he can get in the top 35, but he is driving a Toyota. Since we are talking about Waltrip's, let me give a shout out to DW. I love some DW. There were 42 lead changes among 22 drivers. I hate to say it but yes Jeff Gordon won, even though he led only one lap. I hate Hendrick motors.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Resume & Cover Letter Tips
The first article I read was entitled, "Pretty in Ink: Making a Resume Look as Appealing as the Content," written by Sarah Needleman. Sarah explains how to make a resume stand out from all the cookie-cutter, run of the mill resumes. Adding visuals, graphs, or tables can make a resume stand out and get noticed faster. Allan Zander is the vice president of SolaCom Technologies Inc. and reports only five percent of resumes having creative designs. Not only do aesthetic features show creativity, but it is also refreshing for the one handling resumes.
Sarah also warns of the downfalls. First, she says it is important not to get carried away. Too much design can cause confusion, or simply take too long to read. She also emphasizes the importance of revision. making sure your resume is mistake free is the most important thing. She ends with an effective quote, "A typo is still a typo."
The second article I read was written by Joann Lublin, called "There's No Quick-Fix Solution To Erasing Lies on a Resume." She talks about the struggle for those who have lied on a resume and got a job to come forward and admit to having a false resume. With all the background checks that go on today she says it is only a matter of time before they catch you because checks are not only going on for new employees but those also getting promotions and holding high positions. They say it is good to come clean before getting caught because they might be willing to let you quit with dignity or might even let you still have your job, like Michael Allison. Allison learned that the CEO had not graduated from college, but decided his falsified academic credentials "had no bearing on his entrepreneurial success.'' This could have been to cover-up media coverage. The bottom line is not to lie on your resume.
Sarah also warns of the downfalls. First, she says it is important not to get carried away. Too much design can cause confusion, or simply take too long to read. She also emphasizes the importance of revision. making sure your resume is mistake free is the most important thing. She ends with an effective quote, "A typo is still a typo."
The second article I read was written by Joann Lublin, called "There's No Quick-Fix Solution To Erasing Lies on a Resume." She talks about the struggle for those who have lied on a resume and got a job to come forward and admit to having a false resume. With all the background checks that go on today she says it is only a matter of time before they catch you because checks are not only going on for new employees but those also getting promotions and holding high positions. They say it is good to come clean before getting caught because they might be willing to let you quit with dignity or might even let you still have your job, like Michael Allison. Allison learned that the CEO had not graduated from college, but decided his falsified academic credentials "had no bearing on his entrepreneurial success.'' This could have been to cover-up media coverage. The bottom line is not to lie on your resume.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Interview Articles
The first article I read from the website was, "Ability to Pull an All-Nighter Can Be as Useful as a B.A.", written by Dana Mattioli. This article talked about recognizing other skills one acquires during the college experience, aside from the academia. The other skills sound like things we do in everyday life: write papers at two a.m., watching t.v., and surfing the Internet. Dana emphasizes the importance of translating those other skills into strengths that can be reflected in the workforce. One example translates "living in a residence hall" into, "comfortable working in diverse environment." One other main point she makes is that my generation, the one new to the workforce, is more technology savvy than all other previous generations.
I liked Dana's article, and agreed with most of it. The one thing that I might go against is that it might be hard to convince your future employer that some of those skills hold up. He might not think that pulling an all-nighter is the same as having time-management skills. I do agree with all the technology comments. Our generation seems that we cannot survive without having Internet or a cell phone access at all times. But as a positive, by us investing so much time with technology that just shows how our generation is always looking for a way to move forward and advance the way we live.
For my second article, I read "How To Avoid Blunders During Job Interviews", by Sarah Needleman. Sarah talks about all the negatives an interviewee can bring to an interview. The biggest problem she says most interviewee's have the first time is talking too much. This can reveal that you did not do your homework about the company, and how not letting the interviewer talk will irritate them. Sarah writes on how to win the mental game during an interview by turning arrogance into self-confidence.
Sarah hits on key faults that can happen during an interview, but I believe the best way not to mess up is to practice. Have friends ask questions written down on flash cards to practice responses. This will make the actual interview easier and make you look prepared by avoiding drawing blanks to a surprise question. Being able to expose your weaknesses as steps toward growing shows maturity. Always look your best, "Dress to impress," they say. Relaxation during an interview will allow the interviewee to think clearer and feel more comfortable. It is also important to always keep a positive outlook. By visualizing success, you can make it happen.
I liked Dana's article, and agreed with most of it. The one thing that I might go against is that it might be hard to convince your future employer that some of those skills hold up. He might not think that pulling an all-nighter is the same as having time-management skills. I do agree with all the technology comments. Our generation seems that we cannot survive without having Internet or a cell phone access at all times. But as a positive, by us investing so much time with technology that just shows how our generation is always looking for a way to move forward and advance the way we live.
For my second article, I read "How To Avoid Blunders During Job Interviews", by Sarah Needleman. Sarah talks about all the negatives an interviewee can bring to an interview. The biggest problem she says most interviewee's have the first time is talking too much. This can reveal that you did not do your homework about the company, and how not letting the interviewer talk will irritate them. Sarah writes on how to win the mental game during an interview by turning arrogance into self-confidence.
Sarah hits on key faults that can happen during an interview, but I believe the best way not to mess up is to practice. Have friends ask questions written down on flash cards to practice responses. This will make the actual interview easier and make you look prepared by avoiding drawing blanks to a surprise question. Being able to expose your weaknesses as steps toward growing shows maturity. Always look your best, "Dress to impress," they say. Relaxation during an interview will allow the interviewee to think clearer and feel more comfortable. It is also important to always keep a positive outlook. By visualizing success, you can make it happen.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
The Next Decade
I am not really sure what the next ten years will hold for me, but I am glad that I will have at least a college degree to help me along the way. When I sit here and think of all the changes I have gone through in the last ten years, I could only predict that I will live a lifestyle completely different than what I do now. But enough analyzing, I can only tell of what I hope it to be.
One thing I am pretty strong on is staying in the South. I do not really think I want to adapt to all of the fast-paced lifestyles I see in all of the major cities. Plus the hospitality here makes me want to stay. I hope to have started a family by then, and have a stable life. I also know I need a dog in my life by then.
As for my career in ten years (what you really wanted me to talk about), I really do not know. I like to think one day my picture will be on the wall at some company and people are like, "Now he knew how to run a company." That would be nice. If I am able to support my family and make sure my children are on the path to getting a good education in ten years, I will be happy and consider my decade of change a success.
One thing I am pretty strong on is staying in the South. I do not really think I want to adapt to all of the fast-paced lifestyles I see in all of the major cities. Plus the hospitality here makes me want to stay. I hope to have started a family by then, and have a stable life. I also know I need a dog in my life by then.
As for my career in ten years (what you really wanted me to talk about), I really do not know. I like to think one day my picture will be on the wall at some company and people are like, "Now he knew how to run a company." That would be nice. If I am able to support my family and make sure my children are on the path to getting a good education in ten years, I will be happy and consider my decade of change a success.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Blog for Week of Sept. 5
That video was pretty crazy. If I was not mesmerized by the text changing, the beat had me on lock. It almost comes across like digital text is breaking the rules of old school and can be precieved as bad, but when in reality it is just a step in the right direction. We live in a world where we want everything fast, fast food, fast shopping, and some people just walk way too fast (coffee I guess). Well what is faster when it comes to communicating than the web right now, nothing I can think of, except for person-to-person, yet that is limited to small audience when compared to the world. The web is still growing and I am sure in ten years we will wonder how we ever got by with that slow internet frrom the double zero's. It relates perfectly to the workforce because it shows that just like any business, the Web 2.0 must consistantly change and adapt to please our society. I think it says we must rethink everything because as we evolve it is human nature to think outside the box to survive. In one-hundred years I highly doubt we will be living the same lifestyle we live today, therefor we must rethink everything.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
ABOUT ME
Hey yall, my name is Michael Lawrence Nelson, Jr., but I go by Nick. It's a long story. I am a fifth year senior hoping to get my major in business management with my minor in psychology. I hail from Columbia, South Carolina. Columbia is a little too dirty and has too many gamecock fans for my liking. I love the atmosphere here at Clemson, which is making it hard to graduate, and cannot wait until tomorrow night.
Monday, August 27, 2007
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