“Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
My name is Jordan Brooks and I am currently a Master’s student at the Rochester Institute of Technology in the Communications and Media Technology program. In 2019, I graduated from the University of Virginia with two Bachelor’s: one in English Language & Literature, and the other in Spanish Language & Culture. I decided to pursue a degree in Communications & Media Technology because of the events that transpired in Charlottesville; as a news writer and as a community member, I was inspired by the ability of social media to bring people together, its ability to influence and inspire action. After years of experimenting with various media platforms (Digication, Wix, Hootsuite, WhatsApp, Google Meets, Skype, social media, etc.) my friends have accused me of becoming a social media addict. I am, because it’s utterly fascinating. Beyond that, social media has taught me that there are various ways of connecting with people; non-traditional ways that enable one to make an impact and establish a sincere connection despite the physical distance.
I would describe myself as a detail-oriented and self-disciplined Communications student with a background in news writing, professional writing, media studies, and social media and content marketing. I worked for The Cavalier Daily for three years as an editor, a social media manager, and a Spanish translator, where I enhanced my writing skills, developed my translation skills, and curated my passion for community issues. I am currently a digital marketing intern for a podcast as well as the assistant and social media manager for a black-owned business in my hometown.
Beyond my academic and professional background, I would describe myself as a writer, a dancer, and a military brat. As a writer, creative writing, news writing, research writing, and editing have all been outlets for my critical and creative thinking, and have maintained my attention to visual and textual detail. As a dancer, my self-confidence has not only increased, but so has my self-discipline in learning new skills and overcoming challenges. Lastly, I am a military brat, which makes me a traveler. Abroad or domestically, I like visiting new places and finding out how much I don’t know about the world.This lifestyle has made me very adaptable to new environments and circumstances. It’s also opened my mind to facing new challenges, encouraging me to embrace them and not stop until I overcome them. I like to think that these characteristics are what make me stand out as not just a student, but as a person.