Find Your Roar: Mastering Communication at LSU
September 19, 2024
Did you know?
While 97.2% of students recognize communication as the most important skill, only 55.2% of employers rate graduates as highly proficient.[*1] [*2] Sounds like a puzzle that needs solving, right? This is where LSU comes in, helping students bridge this gap and shine in the eyes of future employers.
Your dream career starts with more than just hitting the books. At LSU, you’ll master the art of communication—one of the most exciting and essential skills that will set you apart. Picture yourself confidently presenting ideas, acing interviews, and making a lasting impression wherever you go. Let's dive into how LSU's vibrant approach ensures you graduate Ready to Roar!
The Magic of Communication
Communication isn’t just about talking or writing well. It’s about sharing your thoughts and ideas in a way that captivates and convinces others. Whether you're pitching a project, writing a compelling essay, or collaborating on a group assignment, mastering communication is your ticket to success.
LSU Manship School of Mass Communication TigerTV students take advantage of opportunities like student media to gain industry knowledge and first-hand experience.
LSU's Secret Sauce: CXC (Communication Across the Curriculum
LSU has your back with Communication Across the Curriculum (CXC), designed to turn you into a communication pro. Communication-Intensive (C-I) Courses, certified by CxC, focus on four modes of communication: written, spoken, visual, and technological. Let’s break them down:
Four Modes of Communication
- Written Communication: This involves crafting messages that are clear, engaging, and informative. You’ll
get to flex your writing skills with activities like:
- Online forum discussions
- Professional emails
- Academic papers
- Blog posts
- Spoken Communication: Hone your ability to convey messages verbally with impact. You’ll practice through:
- Mock meetings
- Interviews
- Curated discussions
- Video narrations
- Visual Communication: Use visual elements to express ideas and information. Your projects might include:
- Photography
- Graphics
- Presentation slides
- Technological Communication: Harness technology to create and share messages. Dive into:
- Multimedia presentations
- Social media engagement
- Dimensional modeling/scanning/printing
Build Your Skills Without Extra Classes
C-I courses at LSU are your chance to develop these communication skills within your field of study. Whether you're studying biology, engineering, international studies, or any other major, C-I courses offer a fun and practical way to enhance your communication abilities without adding extra coursework. Here are a few examples:
- Biology: Learn to create and present eye-catching posters.
- Engineering: Gain experience proposing technical solutions to non-engineers.
- International Studies: Develop a podcast that breaks down complex policies for the public.
Perks of C-I Courses
Employers across all industries prioritize communication skills when hiring. By taking C-I courses, you’ll develop these essential skills, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Plus, you can earn special recognition for your communication prowess, making your resume stand out.
“Entering college, the expectation for proficiency in written and oral communication skills was high, but through the C-I courses I was able to feel confident in my growth as a communicator. The communication skills I have learned have not only assisted in my success as an undergraduate student but also will be crucial for success as a law student.”
—2021 College of Humanities & Social Sciences graduate
Let's Cut to the Chase
At LSU, communication isn’t just a skill you learn; it’s a skill you master. With the university’s comprehensive approach to developing written, spoken, visual, and technological communication skills, you’ll be more than ready to roar when you graduate. So, dive into those C-I courses, use CxC resources, embrace the diverse opportunities available, and watch your communication skills—and your career—soar to new heights!
LSU produces highly capable students that are ready to enter the workplace of any discipline. The combination of professional experiences, academic pursuits, and involvement opportunities on and off campus produce graduates that are: Ready to Roar.