Thursday 19 January 2012

Introduction

    One of my greatest challenges in writing is figuring out where to start, blogging is no exception. As a first time blogger I am looking at my keyboard unsure where to begin. Yes there are mandatory topics to write about, but what I am struggling with most is how much detail about my life I want to share with strangers. Unlike facebook I can’t control who sees my information. 
    With that being said I have decided to share this. My name is Jenna, after a year of studying Public Health at the University of Lethbridge I decided it wasn't for me, I am now studying Conservation Sciences at the University of Alberta. I enjoy swimming, reading and going to the beach.
Photo Credits: Jenna Patterson
    
   Communication played a large role in my decision to transfer programs. I emailed and read blogs from people who were in my current and future fields. Because of the internet I was able to make an informed decision that will hopefully steer me towards my future career. One of the online profiles I visited was on the University of Alberta website. It showed me a realistic career path. 
    With my major being Human Dimensions of Environmental Management I have the potential to work in public outreach programs. If this is the case I will need to be able to communicate to large groups efficiently. A good way of reaching out to people is through social networking such as twitter and blogs. Although I prefer face-to-face communication, I understand that the world is becoming increasingly reliant on social networking to do business. I will therefore need to open my mind to new opportunities.
    Taylor Anderson brings up how communication can be limited by lack of cell reception. This is important for all employees in the field of conservation to consider. It means impeccable planning will need to be done pre-fieldstudy, and that the people out in the field are able to adapt appropriately to change.

3 comments:

  1. It's great to know that there are other people passionate about conservation sciences, and public education is extremely important. Good luck to you

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  2. Hey Jenna!
    I definitely sympathized with your "not knowing where to start" feeling! Although I've had a blog in the past, I felt awkward and strange having a class-orientated blog. I didn't know what type of information to share about myself, and I also agreed with you - unlike facebook you can't control who sees this information! I also think that it is super interesting that you started out in Public Health and decided to switch programs due information you found online. It really is amazing all the information and resources that is at our fingertips! I also find it refreshing for you to say you prefer face-to-face communication. I know for me personally, that has had a huge impact on the choice for me to switch out of nutrition at the end of this year and go into public health promotion. I like having the personal interaction with people and although there is a time and place for social media and technology, there will always be a special place in my heart for human interaction.

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  3. Hi Jenna,
    I agree with you that finding a place to start when writing is the hardest part to overcome. I must agree that one has to be careful because one can`t control who sees what. It is very interesting that you knew public health wasn`t for you from the first year. Unfortunately, a lot of the people I know don`t realize it till it`s too late. I wish you the best in your career

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