My Experiences with Political Communication

As a political science major, who would like to pursue a career in politics and journalism, I found the reporting aspect to be exhilarating. To be out on the field and interview people as a journalist gives you new perspectives and helps you listen to a variety of different people you may have normally never have spoken with. As someone who is politically engaged and has attended campaign rallies in the past, you understand what it's like to be in the audience. This opportunity to be on the other side and hear people's viewpoints is a great way to learn new things.

Through my reporting, I have learned that people are not so ideologically extreme and they have a spectrum of views. Particularly, young people are not devoted to a political party as their parents are. The politicians all have different views, but they also have different personalities and ways to convey a message that is responded to in different ways. Sometimes, it’s difficult to get someone to speak extensively on their candidate and there is a particular reluctance because they may believe the media may portray them negatively. I once asked a young student at a Sanders rally what her political affiliation is and she said she would rather not say. I think it’s important to make sure you’re honest with your intentions and make the interviewee as comfortable as possible and they will be more than happy to reveal anything at that point.  

I have learned through my research that politicians through social media can mobilize their constituency in a way that can provide them with sources to phone bank, canvass, or volunteer in other ways. Presidential candidates have taken advantage of online donating and the Internet to spread their political messages in a substantive manner. In the modern media age, this could be important to raise money through a grassroots effort. At political rallies, campaign staff usually have signs, stickers, and pins to hand out to their supporters. This is an effective way to raise enthusiasm among crowds. It's also easy to see who is more enthusiastic and who is just a spectator. 

Kennesaw State student holds a sign in support of John Kasich