personal statement for advertising media

Sample Marketing Personal Statement (NYU, Cornell, ASU)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to top doctoral programs in Marketing. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at NYU, Cornell, and ASU. Read this marketing personal statement to get inspiration and understand what a top essay should look like.

You might also be interested in reading this   Sample Ph.D. Personal Statement  that got admitted to MIT.

Sample Personal Statement in Marketing

‘Rationale’ stems from our understanding of the environment in which we reside. Amongst other quirks, I was most curious about how and why things were as they were: Why is the sky blue? Why do we grow old?

This curiosity kept increasing, and it was as if I was trying to find a reason for everything, an explanation, a mathematical formula for everything around me. I saw that notions about reality seem strongly influenced by contrasting paradigms and biases already set in motion by society leaders and people of influential vocations. I was fascinated by this unique influence and thus drawn to the study of human behavior that influenced their ability to make rational (or sometimes irrational) decisions.

Marketing and Sales thus became my obsession. I had my first sale at 13. It was a 1994 Nissan sunny – a big, massive but fuel-efficient car.

Silently observing client reactions, their responses to counter offers, and facial expressions, I learned how to make and close great deals. The more closely I watched, the more obvious things became; patterns emerged – confidence in the seller or the buyer greatly influenced the outcome of the entire process, honesty cemented strong relations with the client, etc.

My bachelor served as a guiding post and introduced several opportunities which anchored my interest in consumer behavior, leading me to a major in marketing. From organizing events for the Rotary society to acquiring sponsorships, the experience intensely focused on liaison skills and project management. Funds were arranged beforehand, but the efficiency of the marketing efforts couldn’t be measured.

Whether the attendees of such events had a great time? Were the goals of the event successfully met? Such questions kept me on edge while serving as the Director of Marketing in these events.

Nearing graduation, my professors urged me to participate in person at a research conference being held in the U.S. My pilot study based on the comparison of Instagram and Facebook was well received at the conference. It was here where I got to channel my curiosity revolving around consumer behavior, which was made possible through research.

This conference helped me in penning down a second paper. It encouraged me to learn more about research regarding the rudimentary concepts involved, such as developing a questionnaire.

However, since I was introduced to research, I have always felt a deficiency in quantitative and qualitative research skills. After graduation, I was able to explore my interests rigorously. Composing scripts, guest posting, and publishing on reputable websites helped me tailor my content according to the audience, understand what they disliked, and how they responded to different content – animated, trendy, etc.

Acquiring partnerships, bidding for projects, and winning them helped secure a grip on the fundamentals of efficiency of marketing efforts. This understanding was complemented by the deployment of advertisements on Facebook and Instagram. The digital environment allowed great freedom in measuring all the hard work involved in rendering such campaigns on social media platforms.

Later on, my thirst for data-driven marketing and research brought me to Rutgers, where I learned how to use Python and R for data processing and visualization. I didn’t know how to use SPSS before; this was a huge milestone.

I was finally able to clean and manage data and ultimately interpret results. After such a divergent endeavor, I focused on my family business alongside side projects such as an initiative on mental health and a home décor business. Such feats helped me in pursuing and understanding the customer at a much personal level.

After working with the customers via a direct channel, I wanted to attend a program that could help me fortify my research skills, which would facilitate the incorporation of all this professional experience and help me make sense of all the interactions I have had with customers. At the undergraduate level, I was always at a loss when teaching the concepts of moderation, mediation, and other quantitative techniques.

Moreover, we weren’t introduced to different qualitative research techniques such as coding of interviews, etc. As a result, I was admitted to the M.S. Marketing program offered at Rutgers. Unfortunately, due to covid-related issues, I was able to join the program four weeks late. But I didn’t let that get to me. I worked hard. I was introduced to statistical techniques such as Confirmatory Factor Analysis, Linear Regression, etc.

We learned about treating outliers and the skewness of the data via SPSS. In the second semester, we were introduced to great techniques that aided researchers in comprehending consumer perception about a brand and their buying habits. Research techniques such as conjoint and multidimensional analysis helped analyze consumer buying patterns and habits in great detail and in a systematic manner. Conjoint analysis fascinated me because it sophisticatedly separates questions and generates simulations which significantly helps in price-sensitivity analysis.

It allows researchers to predict customer behavior depending on different variables, such as different colors of the products, prices, etc. The multidimensional analysis gives a 360 approach to the customer perception when subjected to different variables such as the number of locations in a city, quality of the product, etc. I was excited to finally learn how to analyze customer perceptions and whether an action related to the product yielded a return on the invested efforts.

Coincidently and much to my joy, this semester brought an analytics course on the table, Business Analytics. We learned extensively about the basics, and a project was given to us based on our specialization. I used python in data wrangling; when I had to employ Panda’s library to correct the datasets and add product names to them. Concurrently, I came across great applications which could be used to visualize data for my thesis, such as Violin plots, Geographical plots, scattered line charts, etc.

As a result of my hard work, my project was selected as a sample for the following sessions, and I was told that I had scored the highest among the entire batch of MBA and other M.S. programs. This helped me further my passion for research by aiding me in learning the visualizations required for displaying results and making sense of the data at hand. These visualizations incorporate different statistical techniques, which would be helpful in the future, such as variance present in the data, skewness of data, etc.

Recently, I attended a workshop on Mendeley. As a result, I became a certified Mendeley advisor. Progressing forward, I participated in a workshop based on bibliometric research with the aid of the R package – bibliometrix. Other software involved included PowerBI, VOSviewer, Access, etc.

Currently, I’m working on the research topic for my thesis: Color Combination of packaging and its effect on the consumer buying pattern, with a professor, presently working as an editor at several reputable publishers such as Elsevier, Taylor & Francis, etc. I hope to take both quantitative and qualitative approaches in this research.

I yearn to enhance my research prowess in consumer behavior and digital marketing, including decision models, the efficiency of social media marketing, and various other fields I can explore. I want to work on streamlining the entire marketing process with the essence of understanding what the customer wants. And I believe the Ph.D. in Marketing program offered at NYU can help me acquire the professional skills required for the research I wish to conduct alongside providing a platform for much-needed experimentation in the field.

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• 100+ Personal Statement Templates

Media Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Media
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
• Personal Statement Example 3
• Personal Statement Example 4
• Personal Statement Example 5
• Personal Statement Example 6

Ever been captivated by the world of media and its powerful influence on society? Intrigued by the opportunity to create compelling content or to analyse the impact of media on public opinion?

If so, a degree in Media Studies could be your perfect pathway. This dynamic field equips you with the skills to understand, critique, and contribute to various media forms, from journalism and film to social media and advertising.

Media is an interesting and relevant university course for students to consider. It is a broad field of study that covers a range of topics, including media production, media consumption, media regulation, media literacy, and media technology. Through this course, students will explore the various aspects of media, from its history and development to its current and future applications.

They will learn about the different types of media, from television, radio, and film to digital media, and how these mediums shape our lives and the world around us. Furthermore, they will gain an understanding of the ethical and legal implications of media, and how it can be used to influence public opinion and shape public discourse.

With this knowledge, students will be able to make informed decisions about the media they consume and create, as well as better understand the media’s role in society. Ultimately, this course provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become informed, responsible media consumers and producers.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Someone with a degree in media can pursue a wide range of career opportunities. These include:

• Journalism: Journalists research, write, and report on news stories, events, and issues. They may work for newspapers, magazines, television stations, radio stations, or online publications.
• Public Relations: Public relations professionals create and maintain relationships between organisations and their publics. They may be responsible for crafting press releases, developing campaigns, and managing social media accounts.
• Advertising: Advertising professionals create campaigns to promote products and services. They may work for advertising agencies, media companies, or directly for a client.
• Broadcasting: Broadcasting professionals create and produce television and radio programs. They may work for television or radio stations, or for production companies.
• Film and Video Production: Film and video production professionals create movies, television shows, and other video content. They may work for production companies, television stations, or directly for clients.
• Digital Media: Digital media professionals create content for the web, including websites, blogs, and social media accounts. They may work for digital media companies, advertising agencies, or directly for clients.
• Social Media: Social media professionals create and manage social media accounts for organizations. They may work for social media companies, advertising agencies, or directly for clients.
• Graphic Design: Graphic designers create visual designs for websites, print materials, and other media. They may work for design firms, advertising agencies, publishing companies, or as freelancers. Their tasks can include creating logos, designing layouts, choosing fonts and colors, and preparing designs for print or digital publication.

UK Admission Requirements

The entry requirements for the University Course Media vary depending on the institution and the specific course. Generally, applicants will need to have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. In addition, applicants will usually need to have achieved at least two A-Levels at grade C or above, or an equivalent qualification such as BTEC, AVCE, or International Baccalaureate.

In terms of prerequisites, applicants may need to have studied a related subject at A-Level or equivalent, such as Media Studies, Art, English, or Communications. Depending on the institution, applicants may also need to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the use of digital media, such as video editing, photography, or web design.

Compared to similar courses, the entry requirements for the University Course Media are relatively straightforward. Most institutions will require applicants to have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs and two A-Levels, as well as some form of related subject. However, some universities may require applicants to have achieved higher grades, or to have studied a more specific subject at A-Level or equivalent. It is important to check the entry requirements of each institution before applying.

UK Earnings Potential For Media

The average earnings for someone with a degree in media can vary significantly depending on the individual’s experience and the type of job they are pursuing. Generally, the median salary for a media professional in the UK is around £26,000 per year. However, those with more experience and higher qualifications can expect to earn significantly more.

In terms of job market trends, the demand for media professionals is growing. This is due to the increasing importance of digital marketing, social media, and other digital channels. Additionally, the demand for media professionals is expected to increase as businesses continue to invest in new technologies and develop their digital presence. There is also a growing demand for media professionals with specialised skills, such as video editing, graphic design, and web development.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Media include Journalism, Film Studies, and Communication Studies. Journalism focuses on the practice of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information. It involves the study of news media, including print, broadcast, and digital outlets. Film Studies focuses on the analysis of film as an art form, examining how films are made, how they are received, and how they are interpreted.

It involves the study of film history, theory, and criticism. Communication Studies focuses on the study of communication in various forms, including verbal, nonverbal, written, and digital. It involves the study of communication theory, media studies, and communication technology.

The key differences between these courses and Media are the specific topics that are covered. Media focuses on the study of media and communication technology, including television, radio, film, and digital media. It involves the study of media production, media regulation, and media effects.

Journalism focuses on the practice of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information. Film Studies focuses on the analysis of film as an art form, examining how films are made, how they are received, and how they are interpreted. Communication Studies focuses on the study of communication in various forms, including verbal, nonverbal, written, and digital.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a Media course typically include:

1. Introduction to Media: This module provides an overview of the media industry and its key components. It covers topics such as the history of media, media theory, media law, media ethics, and media production.

2. Media Production: This module focuses on the practical aspects of media production. It covers topics such as scriptwriting, cinematography, editing, sound design, and post-production. It also includes hands-on experience in the form of practical projects.

3. Media Analysis: This module explores the ways in which media is analysed and interpreted. It covers topics such as media theory, media criticism, media effects, and media literacy.

4. Media and Society: This module looks at the relationship between media and society. It covers topics such as media representation, media and identity, media and politics, and media and culture.

5. Digital Media: This module explores the impact of digital technology on media production, consumption, and distribution. It covers topics such as digital media platforms, digital media marketing, and digital media regulation.

6. Media Research: This module focuses on the research methods and techniques used in media studies. It covers topics such as research design, data collection, data analysis, and research ethics.

7. Media Industries: This module examines the structure and dynamics of the media industries. It covers topics such as media ownership, media regulation, audience research, media economics, and the impact of digital technologies on media production, distribution, and consumption.

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11 December 2023

6 minutes read

Digital Media Personal Statement Examples: Crafting Your Communication and Media Journey

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• Introduction to Digital Media Personal Statements

Creating a compelling personal statement for digital media and communication courses is a pivotal step in your academic journey.

This comprehensive guide will provide insights into crafting a statement that resonates with your passion and aligns with the expectations of universities and colleges.

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• The Essence of a Personal Statement in Media and Communication

Understanding the Format of a Media Personal Statement

A personal statement in the field of media and communication is your chance to tell a story about who you are, your journey into the world of media, and why you are passionate about this field.

This narrative is not just about your academic achievements but also your personal experiences, skills, and aspirations.

Personal Statement Basics: Incorporating Passion and Professional Aspirations 

Your personal statement should begin by expressing your deep interest in the field of media and communication .

Talk about the moment you realized this was your calling – was it while watching a groundbreaking documentary, during a school media project, or while writing for the school newspaper? Use specific examples to illustrate your passion.

Next, delve into the experiences that have prepared you for a degree in this field. Have you participated in media-related extracurricular activities, internships, or projects?

Describe these experiences and how they have shaped your understanding and enthusiasm for media and communication . It’s also important to highlight your communication skills – whether it’s through writing, speaking, or visual storytelling.

Lastly, discuss your professional aspirations. How do you see this course helping you achieve your career goals?

Whether you aspire to be a journalist, a filmmaker, a PR professional, or any other role within the media sphere, make it clear how the course aligns with these aspirations.

Demonstrating Your Understanding of the Media Landscape

To make your personal statement stand out, it’s crucial to showcase your understanding of the current media landscape. This includes awareness of the challenges, trends, and technological advancements in the field.

Exploring Current Trends and Challenges in Media 

Begin by discussing the current trends in the media industry. Are you fascinated by the rise of digital journalism, the impact of social media on news dissemination, or the evolution of streaming services in entertainment?

Give examples of how these trends have influenced your decision to pursue a career in media.

Address the challenges facing the media industry today, such as the debate over fake news, the ethical considerations in journalism, or the challenges of content creation in an oversaturated digital world.

Show that you are not only aware of these challenges but also eager to contribute to finding solutions.

Additionally, discuss technological advancements in media. Whether it’s the use of AI in newsrooms, the rise of podcasting, or the impact of virtual reality in storytelling, demonstrate how your interest aligns with these technological shifts.

Personalizing Your Media Journey: Unique Experiences and Perspectives

Every individual has a unique journey into the world of media. In this section, discuss how your personal experiences have shaped your perspective and driven your interest in media and communication.

Sharing Your Unique Media-Related Experiences 

Reflect on any unique experiences you have had that are related to media and communication.

This could be an internship at a local newspaper, managing a social media campaign for a community event, producing a short film, or even running a blog or YouTube channel. Explain what these experiences taught you and how they have prepared you for further study in this field.

Discuss any challenges you have faced and overcome in your pursuit of media knowledge. Perhaps you had to balance schoolwork with managing a school radio station, or you had limited resources while creating a documentary.

These experiences show resilience and a commitment to your passion for media. It’s also essential to highlight any unique perspectives you bring to the table.

This could be related to your cultural background, life experiences, or an unusual approach to media that sets you apart. Universities value diversity in thought and experience, so don’t hesitate to share what makes your perspective unique.

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• The Role of Academic and Extracurricular Activities in Shaping Your Media Aspirations

While your personal statement should focus on your passion and experience in media, it’s also important to discuss how your academic and extracurricular activities have supported your aspirations.

Connecting Academic Achievements and Extracurriculars to Media Goals 

Discuss how your academic achievements have prepared you for a degree in media and communication . This could include relevant coursework, research projects, or any academic accolades related to media.

Explain how these achievements have provided you with a foundational understanding of the field. Extracurricular activities can also play a significant role in shaping your media aspirations.

Whether you were part of a school journalism club, a drama society, a debate team, or even a tech club, these experiences can illustrate your interest and skills in communication, storytelling, and media production.

Also, mention any leadership roles you’ve taken in these activities. Leadership experiences can demonstrate your ability to manage projects, work in teams, and communicate effectively – all essential skills in the media industry.

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• The Importance of Research and Preparation in Writing Your Personal Statement

Writing a compelling personal statement requires thorough research and preparation. This section should guide readers on how to approach the writing process effectively.

Tips for Researching and Preparing a Standout Media Personal Statement 

Crafting a standout media personal statement involves thorough research and careful preparation. Here are some key tips to help you create a compelling and effective statement:

• Research the media and communication courses you are interested in.
• Understand the specific focus areas, course structure, and unique opportunities each institution offers.
• Tailor your statement to reflect how your interests and goals align with the course and institution’s ethos.
• Reflect on what makes your journey into media unique – be it your experiences, perspective, or personal challenges.
• Think about how your background, culture, or personal interests have shaped your view of media and communication .
• List all relevant experiences, including education, work, internships, projects, and extracurricular activities.
• Include both formal and informal experiences that have contributed to your understanding and passion for media.
• Highlight skills that are crucial for a career in media, such as communication, creativity, technical skills, or critical thinking.
• Mention any relevant achievements, awards, or recognition you’ve received.
• Structure your personal statement as a story that reflects your journey, challenges, learning, and aspirations.
• Use a clear, engaging, and authentic tone to connect with your readers.
• Get feedback from teachers, mentors, or professionals in the media industry.
• Use their insights to refine and strengthen your statement.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the current trends, technological advancements, and challenges in the media world.
• Discuss how you plan to contribute to or evolve within this ever-changing industry.
• Articulate how the course will help you in your long-term career goals.
• Show that you have a clear vision of where you want to go in the field of media and communication .
• Carefully proofread your statement multiple times to eliminate any grammatical or spelling errors.
• Ensure that the flow of thoughts is coherent and that your statement makes a strong impact.
• While it’s important to be professional, ensure your personal statement reflects your true self.
• Avoid exaggerating or misrepresenting your experiences and qualifications.

Remember, your personal statement is an opportunity to show the admissions committee who you are beyond grades and test scores. It’s your voice in the application process, so make it count!

Utilizing Digital Media Personal Statement Examples as a Learning Tool

One of the best ways to understand what makes a successful personal statement is to study examples. This section should emphasize the importance of learning from others’ experiences.

Analyzing and Learning from Successful Media Personal Statement Examples 

Look for examples of successful digital media personal statements, which can often be found online through university websites, educational forums, or resources like Studential.com.

Analyze what makes these statements effective – notice how they structure their narrative, the way they articulate their passion , and how they connect their experiences to their media aspirations.

Identify the key elements that resonate with you and think about how you can incorporate similar strategies into your statement. However, it’s important to maintain your authenticity and not simply mimic another’s style or experiences.

Reflect on how these examples balance personal anecdotes with professional aspirations. A successful personal statement often strikes a balance between showcasing personality and demonstrating readiness for a career in media and communication .

Crafting a digital media personal statement is about narrating your unique journey and showcasing your passion for the field. Use these guidelines to create a statement that not only meets the academic requirements but also reflects your personal story and aspirations in the media world.

Remember, your personal statement is your chance to make a lasting impression – make it count.

Q1: Can I include humor in my digital media personal statement?

While a touch of humor can make your statement more engaging, be cautious. Ensure it’s appropriate and doesn’t distract from the seriousness of your aspirations and experiences.

Q2: How do I balance talking about my achievements without sounding boastful?

Focus on being factual and reflective. Discuss your achievements in the context of what they taught you or how they shaped your interest in media, rather than simply listing accolades.

Q3: Is it important to discuss specific media figures or works that inspire me?

Yes, mentioning media figures or works that inspire you can be a great way to show your engagement with the field. Just make sure to connect it back to your own experiences and aspirations.

Q4: How technical should I get in my personal statement?

It depends on the course you’re applying for. If it’s a technically oriented course, showing your understanding of technical aspects can be beneficial. However, don’t get so technical that it becomes inaccessible to non-specialist readers.

Q5: Should I mention my long-term career goals in the personal statement?

Yes, discussing your long-term career goals can help demonstrate your commitment and vision for your future in the media industry. Just ensure it’s aligned with the course you’re applying for.

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Table of Contents

• • Introduction to Digital Media Personal Statements
• • The Essence of a Personal Statement in Media and Communication
• • The Role of Academic and Extracurricular Activities in Shaping Your Media Aspirations
• • The Importance of Research and Preparation in Writing Your Personal Statement
• • Conclusion

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Effective Guide: Film and Media Studies Personal Statement

Table of Contents

A successful application to a Film and Media Studies program requires a well-crafted personal statement that reflects your passion for the subject. You need to showcase your unique perspectives and experiences to stand out from the competition.

You must also demonstrate the specific knowledge and skills you can bring to the program. With an eye towards creativity and practicality, this article will provide guidance to craft an excellent film and media studies personal statement .

What Is a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement?

A Film and Media Studies personal statement is an essential document for anyone hoping to pursue a degree in film or media. This document helps admission officers gain insight into the applicant’s motivations, aspirations, skills, and experiences pertinent to their studies.

A well-crafted personal statement will give candidates a competitive edge in pursuing higher education. The statement should be written with clarity, specificity, and emotion while also demonstrating knowledge of the field. By weaving together factual examples and creative language, applicants can showcase their unique talents as well as their commitment to this exciting industry.

Tips to Write a Good Film and Media Personal Statement

Emphasize your passion.

When writing a personal statement for film and media studies, it’s vital to demonstrate your passion for the field in an engaging way. Provide detailed examples of experiences that have nurtured your interest in the industry. It could be attending movie screenings or participating in relevant activities. Demonstrating a deep-seated enthusiasm and commitment to pursuing film and media studies will help showcase your drive and determination to admissions officers.

Highlight Relevant Experiences

Utilize your personal statement to emphasize any previous experiences you may have had related to filmmaking, media production, scriptwriting, or video editing. Even if these experiences are outside the classroom, they can still provide valuable insight into your skill set and capabilities within this field. Include any projects you’ve completed, awards or accolades you’ve earned, and internships or jobs you’ve held. And explain how each of these has strengthened your understanding of film and media studies.

Discuss Your Professional Goals

While discussing past experiences is important, make sure to also focus on your future ambitions for the field. Explain what professional aspirations you hope to achieve after graduating from the program. It could be working as a director, producer, cinematographer, editor, or writer. It provides admission officers with a clear vision of your career goal and why the specific program is ideal for you to get there.

Make It Personal

To craft a compelling personal statement for film and media studies, inject some personality! Include anecdotes or stories about yourself which offer insight into who you are as an individual. Showcasing your character traits and perspectives through thoughtful storytelling adds layers of dimension to your application. It lets the reader know the “real” you beyond just facts and figures.

Tailor It to the Program

Tailor your personal statement directly to the program you are applying to. Research the institution thoroughly and find ways to mention elements of its curriculum that resonate with you. Or mention areas of specialization offered by faculty members which excite you professionally.

Film and Media Studies Personal Statement Example

Below is an excellent example of a film and media studies personal statement to inspire you to write one for yourself:

Personal Statement Example

I have always been fascinated by the potential of media and film to incite change on a large scale. As an undergrad, I immersed myself in courses that explored these disciplines – from American cinema to global digital content. And I have since developed a comprehensive understanding of how different media platforms can be used to communicate powerful messages. My interest has led me to pursue further studies in Film and Media Studies. I am eager to use my passion for narrative-building and storytelling to shape conversations about important social issues like immigration, poverty, and gender inequality.

A graduate degree in Film and Media Studies will give me the essential skills to produce impactful films. It would increase my aptitude in online communication and challenge viewers to think critically about current events. In addition, it will open up opportunities to work on projects related to documentary filmmaking, advertising campaigns, and public service announcements. These are areas where I could apply my already-sophisticated knowledge of cinematography and production design. Moreover, collaborating with other professionals from diverse backgrounds would expand my skill set and bolster my capabilities as an independent producer.

Sustaining an active presence within this field is crucial for honing my craft. Therefore, I am committed to dedicating extra hours outside class for networking and professional development activities. I plan to leverage my previous experience teaching introductory film classes at two local universities to make meaningful contributions to departmental seminars. With all these elements combined, I am confident that I will not only grow as a practitioner but also empower others through my work.

Film and media studies is a unique field that requires understanding both creative elements and technical concepts. By crafting a personal statement that accurately reflects one’s experience and passion for the subject matter, potential students can stand out from the rest.

It’s essential to use clear language and structure, inject emotion into your writing, and utilize colloquialisms. By following the right approach and the tips and examples in this post, you can make their application shine.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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NPR defends its journalism after senior editor says it has lost the public's trust

David Folkenflik

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust. Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust.

NPR's top news executive defended its journalism and its commitment to reflecting a diverse array of views on Tuesday after a senior NPR editor wrote a broad critique of how the network has covered some of the most important stories of the age.

"An open-minded spirit no longer exists within NPR, and now, predictably, we don't have an audience that reflects America," writes Uri Berliner.

A strategic emphasis on diversity and inclusion on the basis of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation, promoted by NPR's former CEO, John Lansing, has fed "the absence of viewpoint diversity," Berliner writes.

NPR's chief news executive, Edith Chapin, wrote in a memo to staff Tuesday afternoon that she and the news leadership team strongly reject Berliner's assessment.

"We're proud to stand behind the exceptional work that our desks and shows do to cover a wide range of challenging stories," she wrote. "We believe that inclusion — among our staff, with our sourcing, and in our overall coverage — is critical to telling the nuanced stories of this country and our world."

NPR names tech executive Katherine Maher to lead in turbulent era

She added, "None of our work is above scrutiny or critique. We must have vigorous discussions in the newsroom about how we serve the public as a whole."

A spokesperson for NPR said Chapin, who also serves as the network's chief content officer, would have no further comment.

Praised by NPR's critics

Berliner is a senior editor on NPR's Business Desk. (Disclosure: I, too, am part of the Business Desk, and Berliner has edited many of my past stories. He did not see any version of this article or participate in its preparation before it was posted publicly.)

Berliner's essay , titled "I've Been at NPR for 25 years. Here's How We Lost America's Trust," was published by The Free Press, a website that has welcomed journalists who have concluded that mainstream news outlets have become reflexively liberal.

Berliner writes that as a Subaru-driving, Sarah Lawrence College graduate who "was raised by a lesbian peace activist mother ," he fits the mold of a loyal NPR fan.

Yet Berliner says NPR's news coverage has fallen short on some of the most controversial stories of recent years, from the question of whether former President Donald Trump colluded with Russia in the 2016 election, to the origins of the virus that causes COVID-19, to the significance and provenance of emails leaked from a laptop owned by Hunter Biden weeks before the 2020 election. In addition, he blasted NPR's coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

On each of these stories, Berliner asserts, NPR has suffered from groupthink due to too little diversity of viewpoints in the newsroom.

The essay ricocheted Tuesday around conservative media , with some labeling Berliner a whistleblower . Others picked it up on social media, including Elon Musk, who has lambasted NPR for leaving his social media site, X. (Musk emailed another NPR reporter a link to Berliner's article with a gibe that the reporter was a "quisling" — a World War II reference to someone who collaborates with the enemy.)

When asked for further comment late Tuesday, Berliner declined, saying the essay spoke for itself.

The arguments he raises — and counters — have percolated across U.S. newsrooms in recent years. The #MeToo sexual harassment scandals of 2016 and 2017 forced newsrooms to listen to and heed more junior colleagues. The social justice movement prompted by the killing of George Floyd in 2020 inspired a reckoning in many places. Newsroom leaders often appeared to stand on shaky ground.

Leaders at many newsrooms, including top editors at The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times , lost their jobs. Legendary Washington Post Executive Editor Martin Baron wrote in his memoir that he feared his bonds with the staff were "frayed beyond repair," especially over the degree of self-expression his journalists expected to exert on social media, before he decided to step down in early 2021.

Since then, Baron and others — including leaders of some of these newsrooms — have suggested that the pendulum has swung too far.

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New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger warned last year against journalists embracing a stance of what he calls "one-side-ism": "where journalists are demonstrating that they're on the side of the righteous."

"I really think that that can create blind spots and echo chambers," he said.

Internal arguments at The Times over the strength of its reporting on accusations that Hamas engaged in sexual assaults as part of a strategy for its Oct. 7 attack on Israel erupted publicly . The paper conducted an investigation to determine the source of a leak over a planned episode of the paper's podcast The Daily on the subject, which months later has not been released. The newsroom guild accused the paper of "targeted interrogation" of journalists of Middle Eastern descent.

Heated pushback in NPR's newsroom

Given Berliner's account of private conversations, several NPR journalists question whether they can now trust him with unguarded assessments about stories in real time. Others express frustration that he had not sought out comment in advance of publication. Berliner acknowledged to me that for this story, he did not seek NPR's approval to publish the piece, nor did he give the network advance notice.

Some of Berliner's NPR colleagues are responding heatedly. Fernando Alfonso, a senior supervising editor for digital news, wrote that he wholeheartedly rejected Berliner's critique of the coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, for which NPR's journalists, like their peers, periodically put themselves at risk.

Alfonso also took issue with Berliner's concern over the focus on diversity at NPR.

"As a person of color who has often worked in newsrooms with little to no people who look like me, the efforts NPR has made to diversify its workforce and its sources are unique and appropriate given the news industry's long-standing lack of diversity," Alfonso says. "These efforts should be celebrated and not denigrated as Uri has done."

After this story was first published, Berliner contested Alfonso's characterization, saying his criticism of NPR is about the lack of diversity of viewpoints, not its diversity itself.

"I never criticized NPR's priority of achieving a more diverse workforce in terms of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation. I have not 'denigrated' NPR's newsroom diversity goals," Berliner said. "That's wrong."

Questions of diversity

Under former CEO John Lansing, NPR made increasing diversity, both of its staff and its audience, its "North Star" mission. Berliner says in the essay that NPR failed to consider broader diversity of viewpoint, noting, "In D.C., where NPR is headquartered and many of us live, I found 87 registered Democrats working in editorial positions and zero Republicans."

Berliner cited audience estimates that suggested a concurrent falloff in listening by Republicans. (The number of people listening to NPR broadcasts and terrestrial radio broadly has declined since the start of the pandemic.)

Former NPR vice president for news and ombudsman Jeffrey Dvorkin tweeted , "I know Uri. He's not wrong."

Others questioned Berliner's logic. "This probably gets causality somewhat backward," tweeted Semafor Washington editor Jordan Weissmann . "I'd guess that a lot of NPR listeners who voted for [Mitt] Romney have changed how they identify politically."

Similarly, Nieman Lab founder Joshua Benton suggested the rise of Trump alienated many NPR-appreciating Republicans from the GOP.

In recent years, NPR has greatly enhanced the percentage of people of color in its workforce and its executive ranks. Four out of 10 staffers are people of color; nearly half of NPR's leadership team identifies as Black, Asian or Latino.

"The philosophy is: Do you want to serve all of America and make sure it sounds like all of America, or not?" Lansing, who stepped down last month, says in response to Berliner's piece. "I'd welcome the argument against that."

"On radio, we were really lagging in our representation of an audience that makes us look like what America looks like today," Lansing says. The U.S. looks and sounds a lot different than it did in 1971, when NPR's first show was broadcast, Lansing says.

A network spokesperson says new NPR CEO Katherine Maher supports Chapin and her response to Berliner's critique.

The spokesperson says that Maher "believes that it's a healthy thing for a public service newsroom to engage in rigorous consideration of the needs of our audiences, including where we serve our mission well and where we can serve it better."

Disclosure: This story was reported and written by NPR Media Correspondent David Folkenflik and edited by Deputy Business Editor Emily Kopp and Managing Editor Gerry Holmes. Under NPR's protocol for reporting on itself, no NPR corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was posted publicly.

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Multimedia and Arts Technology Personal Statement

I believe that computers can now be considered the centre of all knowledge – with so much information readily available by simply conducting a single search on a web browser. I have been interested in the vast world of technology ever since my earliest memory of experiencing video games and being fascinated that the combination of a screen, a gaming platform and a controller could allow you to experience an entirely different, virtual environment. I am intrigued by contemporary technology and the way it is influencing new generations.

Studying ICT has allowed me to advance my knowledge of computers from research of computer systems and how components work together. It has also led to me learning the basics of web architecture when creating a website. I improved my own website using my programming skills of HTML and CSS via the platform of Bootstrap that I learnt from the online resources of CodeAcademy, this produced a better functioning website as opposed to the template of Adobe Dreamweaver that was suggested. By challenging myself to improve my ability, I have enhanced my learning experience and reinforced my passion for technology. From studying A-Level Mathematics, I have developed the logical thinking I require when solving complex problems and deciphering the processes required to find a solution. This skill can be applied to the creation of interactive applications as I am aware of the strong connection between maths and computing; I observed that possessing a knowledge of mathematical methods helps to explain programming languages such as the use of booleans in Python. This combines with my understanding of the effects of inventions in societies that I have perceived from my studies in English Literature which helps me to interpret how my creations will impact an audience.

I was able to gain some industry experience by investing a week at the children’s technology development company Dubit Limited where I undertook roles in creative , research and quality assurance departments. Working within these departments allowed me to explore different occupations, such as Graphic Design and QA Testing, that in the future I may want to pursue. During my time with the company, I benefitted from the opportunity to build on my key communication and organisational skills, whilst I was also able to gain an understanding of Adobe Flash and therefore develop my artistic capabilities by experimenting with the software. I also learnt the importance of issue tracking and management software such as Jira which allows each department to know what to improve when co-operating on a project and gave me an experience of the debugging process when creating an interactive application. Through combining these varied skills, it reinforced my desire to work both creatively and technically within a future role.

I have also had the opportunity to better my communication skills by assisting children in several subjects – ICT, mathematics and art. I volunteered to introduce the video game ‘Minecraft’ to some younger students, aged 12-14, to develop their understanding of how a game can lead to limitless creativity. It lead to the students creating simple houses to more intricate designs such as towers which presented to them the idea of having no limitations on their imagination. I recently aided primary school children in producing paintings of rivers for the Wharfe Valley Learning Partnership; I discussed various styles, provided background information on artistic movements and guided the children through the creative process. I currently support lower ability students, aged 12-13, with maths by working with them to complete tasks in problem topics to ensure that they are able to progress to improving their grades.

Outside of studies I enjoy reading, music, art, baking and playing video games; each of these interests incorporate technology. The digital portability of ebooks and mp3s allows me to enjoy reading and listening to music regardless of location, creative software enables me to produce art and the internet provides platforms in which I can easily find recipes in the various forms. My preferred platform for video games is a PC due to ease of access and preferred controls. To further my knowledge of programming, I read ‘Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software’ by Charles Petzold which taught me to fundamentals of computer science through the use of common objects. I also recently participated in a competition to celebrate Ada Lovelace Day that asked for my opinion on what would interest her in the 21st century; this improved my research skills as I researched her interests and chose to look at computer-generated music and art based on both my own and Ada’s love for the arts.

I believe that studying a creative technology course will allow me to develop the knowledge of interactivity in an advancing digital society which will increase my potential of progressing to a future career as a web designer or developer.

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Pr, media and communications personal statement example.

Over the last few years my interest in public relations, media, journalism and business, in general, has developed. I enjoy reading newspapers, magazines and music literature such as NME. I also enjoy listening to the radio with my favourite station being BBC Radio 1 due to the variety of different programmes available. I strongly believe that by watching and listening to how people interact with others and how they get their message across is an influential factor in my life and how I have come to make my decision that I would like to study PR and Media.

I am currently taking Highers in Psychology, English, Business and RMPS. All of these subjects I feel would help me in the field of PR and Media. English for the writing and communication skills, Business for the insight into economic, political and financial situations, RMPS for the knowledge of different cultures and religions and Psychology for the deeper understanding of how to influence people. I have also completed the BusinessDynamics programme which has helped me to further my knowledge of business. Throughout my time at school I have always enjoyed organising things and ensuring they run well. In June, when our Head Teacher retired, we decided to throw a leaving party which I played a crucial role in organising. The event was successful which paid off for the ups and downs of planning, organising entertainment and the communication with staff. I have also taken on the role of being head of the schools Rock Challenge fundraising and community awareness team. I have always been part of the Rock Challenge team whether that was through dancing or costume design and enjoy creating things that people will appreciate. I am a member of our Alzheimer's Scotland (our chosen charity of the year) fundraising team. We have so far raised around £3000 through sales of t-shirts, lollypops, lunchtime concerts to show off the talent in the school and by running the Great Scottish Run all of which required correspondence between students, teachers and other members of staff.

At the weekend I work at the local farm shop and tourist destination Loch Leven's Larder as a shop assistant. Training from my peers has given me confidence in my customer service skills which I continue to improve upon. The structure and fast pace of the business has been beneficial to me as I feel it has made me realise that you need to adapt to certain people's needs and given me a knowledge in how to approach different types of people in a friendly and suitable way. We often host tasting and sampling sessions with local businesses which is a great opportunity to interact with the businesses themselves as well as the public. As well as working I am currently partaking in voluntary work with Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation during their Kinross Winter Festival over the coming months. This has included stewarding at their Winter Market and also helping promote Kinross-shires Got Talent to acts and audience as well. I am also helping backstage at this event as well as selling tickets. This is beneficial to me because it shows how much work and communication has to happen between people for events to run well.

In September 2014 I attended the Big Music Project in Glasgow which has helped me to influence my decision about what interests me in a career. The event was primarily based around the music business however the radio seminar, which featured representatives of the Student Radio Association as well as James McGuire from Capital FM, I found particularly interesting. I believe that this inspired me to be more independent and made me realise that if I want something I have to put myself out there and grab every opportunity with both hands. I feel as if I know more of what is out there now and who is there to support me in achieving it. Also, a recent visit from Gordon Smart, editor of The Scottish Sun, inspired me as it gave me an insight to how other people paved the way for their career.

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There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

Sent application on 11/12/2015. Received two conditional offers from Robert Gordon for Public Relations (BBB) and Media (BBB) on the 17/12/2015, still awaiting decisions from Glasgow Caledonian, Stirling and Queen Margaret. Applied with a C in Higher Geography and currently sitting Highers in Psychology, RMPS, English and Business.

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Zaslav Receives $50 Million for Leading Struggling Warner Bros. Discovery

The chief executive’s 2023 pay package rose 26 percent from the year before, while the company’s losses totaled $3 billion.

By Brooks Barnes

Reporting from Los Angeles

David Zaslav , the chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery, received $49.7 million in compensation last year, a 26 percent increase from the previous year, according to a proxy statement filed on Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

It is common for chief executives in media to receive lavish pay packages. Mr. Zaslav’s compensation for 2023 is notable, however, because Warner Bros. Discovery is not exactly a portrait of health . Losses totaled $3 billion in 2023, which was actually an improvement from $7 billion in losses the year before. Revenue fell 4 percent, largely because of the company’s atrophying cable television business, which includes CNN.

In addition, Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders sent a clear message about Mr. Zaslav’s pay at the company’s most recent annual meeting: It’s too high.

In a nonbinding “say on pay” vote, only 50.8 percent of shareholders approved of the $39.3 million he was paid in 2022. Approval by less than 70 percent is considered “low support” by ISS, a leading corporate governance firm.

For 2023, the Warner Bros. Discovery board adjusted compensation formulas for its top executives. The adjustment involved certain bonuses — tying them more to the generation of free cash flow , which is helpful in paying down debt, and less to the company’s stock price. (Shares have lately traded at about $8, down from $24 two years ago.)

In terms of free cash flow, Warner Bros. Discovery had a spectacular 2023. Free cash flow totaled $6.2 billion, an 86 percent increase from the year before, vastly more than Wall Street had expected. That was partly a result of improved financials at the company’s streaming division, which became profitable. The union strikes that shut down Hollywood for six months also contributed, saving on production costs.

The money allowed Warner Bros. Discovery to trim its total debt by 11 percent, to $44.2 billion, in 2023.

Mr. Zaslav’s compensation for 2023 included a $3 million base salary and long-term stock awards of $23 million, according to the proxy. He also received $22 million in cash, a payment guaranteed by a 2021 employment contract and related to his role in merging Discovery and WarnerMedia . (In 2021, Mr. Zaslav, then running Discovery, received compensation valued at $246.6 million.) An additional $1.6 million was related to security and personal use of the corporate jet.

“We were impacted by the changing landscape of advertising spending and continued weakness in the advertising market overall; declines in linear television viewing; increased competition from other traditional media companies and the enhanced presence of large technology companies in the media space; lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on movie-theater attendance,” Warner Bros. Discovery said in the proxy.

Despite those challenges, Mr. Zaslav “provided exceptional leadership and delivered on several financial, operational and strategic priorities,” the company said. (It also gave hefty raises to its chief financial officer, president of streaming, chief revenue and strategy officer, and international president.)

To compare, Robert A. Iger , Disney’s chief executive, received a pay package worth $31.6 million in 2023, a 31 percent decline from 2021. (In the interim, he retired and unretired .) Ted Sarandos , Netflix’s co-chief executive, received $49.8 million, on a par with a year earlier. Bob Bakish , chief executive of the troubled Paramount Global, was paid $31.3 million in 2023, down 2 percent.

Pay packages like these — when entertainment companies have been walloped by the shift to streaming from traditional television — played a major role in the union strikes . “They plead poverty, that they’re losing money left and right when giving hundreds of millions of dollars to their C.E.O.s,” Fran Drescher, the president of the actors’ union, said at July rally. “It is disgusting.”

Most of the big media companies slashed costs in 2023, laying off thousands of people and announcing plans to make fewer movies and television shows. But Mr. Zaslav and his lieutenants have been particularly aggressive, even shelving nearly finished content like “Batgirl” and “ Coyote vs. Acme .”

“We said no sacred cows,” Mr. Zaslav said at The New York Times’s DealBook Summit in November.

Brooks Barnes covers all things Hollywood. He joined The New York Times in 2007 and previously worked at The Wall Street Journal. More about Brooks Barnes