by Josh Wilson

The Global Communications Center (GCC) is an excellent place for all things media. There is a podcasting room with four podcasting microphones and a podcasting board to adjust and edit the audio. This room also has soundproofing pads, which are suitable for canceling the noise of the surroundings. I have used this room plenty of times when I am recording videos for class projects.  

The GCC also has cameras, camera lenses, microphones and tripods that students can rent out for free for personal use. High-quality audio is essential in project videos so professors and peers can easily understand what is being said in the video.  

Also, in the GCC, students can schedule appointments for writing assistance. This is useful when students need help editing a paper. The GCC also has a video studio which is used to make headshots for LinkedIn profiles or short videos. This studio also has green screens for photography and videography projects.  

I had the chance to speak with the head media consultant, AJ Schraeder, about why it is important for students to know how to use the technology resources in the GCC. He said, “Technology keeps evolving and it will be a part of the workforce in every sense, no matter what field a student enters. So, getting experienced with all the communication skills and soft skills will only make a student a better job applicant for the field they enter.” In summary, familiarity with the media equipment in the GCC is an affective skill to have when applying for job positions. 

After asking freshman Justin Murillo about the convenience of the GCC, he said, “I think it is pretty convenient because we have the podcasting room, videography room, microwave and food pantry. These resources are straightforward for people to access, so students do not have to go anywhere else.” The GCC is highly convenient because students would have to pay for the resources produced, but the GCC offers them for free.  

The GCC also has a lounge room where students can relax, watch television on the four TV screens and study. Next to the lounge is the food pantry, where students can get food and snacks. After asking sophomore Lane McDowell about his favorite aspect of the GCC, he said, “I like the layout of the GCC and how easy everything is to find. My favorite place is the lounge area because I can watch TV or do homework.” The lounge area is a fantastic place for students to socialize and be academically productive.  

Overall, the GCC is a fantastic place to learn how to use digital media through videography, photography and podcasting. The GCC is also a great place to sharpen writing skills, socialize and study. Come to the GCC and experience the resources provided.