PRSSA at USF

Not too long ago, PRSSA hosted a social media panel that, for a moment at least, got students excited about blogs, podcasts, and social networking. Walking out of the room you could almost see the new knowledge in the student's heads. Everyone had the enthusiasm (but, not necessarily, the time) to start his/her journey down the social media path.

While I did not launch my blog or revamp my methods of social networking, I did seek out podcasts and have been an addict ever since. These, often brief, easily downloadable, digital-media files allow me to keep up to date on news and commentary on my interests from politics, religion, even workout videos! Your options on what podcasts to subscribe to seem endless at times and maybe even a bit overwhelming, but once you begin to utilize this convenient and essentially FREE method of gathering information it is difficult to turn away!

The ease of obtaining these media files is not the only draw to listening to podcasts. All of this information is ?on-the-go?! You may remember a little fitness expo that PRSSA USF hosted this year? The event, inspired by celebrity trainer Kent Buckner, promoted using his training techniques via podcast at the gym, in your home, or outdoors.         This idea is the major selling point for me. I listen in my car, at the gym, and around the house giving me more time to absorb all the information out there a new grad will need!

My opinion on how best to use podcasts (readers please contribute your opinions as well):

Looking for a job? Subscribe to podcasts in your industry. Many companies, agencies, and organizations have their own podcasts that you can download, thus giving you one more way to stay in the loop of your future employer. Although dated, this article by Jay Cridlin features some of Tampa Bay?s podcasts on all different topics.

Moving any time soon? A lot of locations have podcasts just for this purpose set up through the government or just residents that are making information available about the move, life in that place, and the culture there. Whether the move is to another city, state, or country it is important that you understand as much as possible about it before jumping in!

And finally, for education! Podcasts can provide some excellent alternatives to understanding complicated textbooks or professors. Just search your industry and let the podcasts give you the knowledge and motivation!

Below are some podcasts search sites and directories that may be of use to you. I have not been in the podcast world for long, so please I welcome information on how to make my experience even better!

Podcast Directory

PodastDirectory.com

LearnoutLoud.com

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