As a journalism student, I was surprised by the university's decision to merge the Journalism, Telecommunications and Communication and Culture departments to form the Media School. Each department was unique with different opportunities for its students.
When I first heard that the merger was likely, I remember feeling both confused and upset. The journalism school had become a second home and it largely became part of my identity as a student. Upon declaring journalism as my major during freshman year, I quickly learned that there was a strong family dynamic to the school. Compared to other schools at IU, it was relatively small. I began seeing similar faces in the halls. I would often find myself talking to a professor on my way to class. I loved it. I still do.
I thought the merger would take that away. I believed that studying journalism at IU would no longer be the same. I was too quick to jump to conclusions.
Gradually, after considering the merger in-depth, I realized it may not be as bad as I expected or assumed. Yes, there will no longer be a School of Journalism. Yes, I will now graduate with a degree from the College of Arts and Sciences as opposed to the School of Journalism. Although I won't reap the benefits of the Media School with new studios and additional course options, prospective students have a tremendous opportunity to create the identity and reputation of the new school. Quite frankly, that's pretty cool.
For those of you considering IU as your university and journalism as your major, I encourage you to learn more about the Media School and the opportunities at your disposal.
--Gillian