Reflection: Week 1

Signing up for a class about communication, I thought I already knew everything there was to know.  However, after the first two class meetings I am surprised at how much I have to learn.  After reading the extremely dense and frankly tedious article by Scholten, I was a little discouraged.  Upon completion of Lyn's presentation I actually seemed even more confused, but I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  The distinctive theories behind Health Promotion Comm are necessary to achieve total success and must be utilized properly.  I hope to learn more about the different routes and absorption methods.  The most interesting tidbit I picked up this week was about back-door routes.  Whereas a message is being delivered in such a manner that the target has no idea they were just given a health promotion message.  I like this concept for working with young adults I think it will be more successful than the traditional scare tactics and fact-spitting.
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During the 'Code Your Own Communication' assignment I was surprised but not shocked by the number of negative health messages Las Vegas bombards you with.  From free alcohol, open smoking casinos and hotel rooms, to prostitutes to your door in "20 mins or less" (or so says their t-shirts) the messages and prompts for unhealthy living are everywhere.  Being in that environment for 4 days, I myself fell victim to many advertisements and gimmicks geared at the casinos making money.  Discouraging as it may be, I know that there is a way to reach the people in a matter that will captivate, entertain and engage them so that unpopular health related messages can be administered "painlessly" to put it one way.
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Regarding the group topic, I am excited to work on a nutrition campaign.  Previously within the health promotion department I have stuck to my previous interests of sexual health and substance abuse.  During this semester I hope to expand my repertoire and bring a fresh and new attitude to nutrition campaigns.  Hopefully this class will give me the experience and practice i need to develop a successful healthy eating program to use on my resume to exemplify my skills.