What Else is There?
So, in the past few articles we have reviewed how to navigate application processes, efficient organizational skills, and where you can go in your free time. However, I figured I would take the time to get a point of view from an actual employee here at Gulf Coast. Danie Oestreich is currently enrolled in the Bachelor’s of Applied Science program with a major in Video Production here at Gulf Coast. She has also completed her Associates in Arts degree with a major in general studies here as well. While completing her Bachelors, Danie has accepted the position as Assistant Coordinator of Production & Tech support in the digital media department. I took the time to sit down with her to get her point of view on how to make the most of your time at Gulf Coast.
Opportunity is Out There
Q: How do you feel Gulf Coast has helped you get to where you are today?
A: I have gained so much from going to Gulf Coast. Fresh out of high school, I went to a private University and didn’t really enjoy it much. After leaving the University, I heard about Gulf Coast and haven’t gone back since. I am thankful that my program has different forms of learning experiences that have allowed me to get out of my comfort zone. The digital media program is very hands-on and has made me learn to take initiative when it comes to public work. I took on a internship a few summers ago in Massachusetts working in sports media and the skills I learned at Gulf Coast helped me a lot out on the field. One of my collogues said that I knew a lot of useful information that he hadn’t learned yet from his prestigious University, so that made me feel happy about my choices.
Shift in Standpoint
Q: Has your opinion changed from going from a student to a full time employee?
A: I have realized that a lot of the personality types (at least in the employee/professor standpoint) are very reserved. As an employee I have realized that has unintentionally established an expectation that students are allowed to be reserved as well, and in professional circumstances I believe that we should be doing the opposite. I have been trying to hold myself and other students accountable when it comes to their work and being out in the field. I feel like this would help our students use these skills in the field and would allow for a more realistic view on how the world works today.
Dear Newcomers
Q: Do you have any advise for anyone looking at Gulf Coast as a potential option for college?
A: Let your work shine through. There is a stigma around the fact that state colleges are not as highly regarded as Universities. However, everyone gets the same piece of paper. Also, a lot of people leave Gulf Coast feeling like they didn’t get anything from it. That is up to you. You can either skate by and let Gulf Coast do their job in teaching you, OR you can utilize the most of your time. Ask those questions. Put the work in. Be engaged. Make Gulf Coast work for you. Don’t let Gulf Coast work you.
