Vox Alumno
By Theresa Leavens, Emerson College, Graduate Student

Sitting in Barnes & Noble and sifting through books is a luxury I rarely have time for, though truly cherish. Topics, such as how to read body language, the underpinnings of social intelligence and the practical application of the social web tickle my fancy. In reflecting on the common thread throughout my morning's lessons, I appreciate the human realness that existed amongst all three.

Over the past several months, I have been learning more and more of how the mediums of communication and the public relations field, overall, are changing. Social Media is becoming increasingly important, with pubic relations professionals needing to diverge from the traditional methods of communication and learn how to gain press coverage via blogs, technorati, webisodes, twitter, etc. Upon first entering this new world, I was a bit taken aback. Coming from the non-profit sector working in public relations and major gift fundraising, I knew the importance of personal relationships. How could technology replace the old-fashioned warmth of a smile or comfort of a solid handshake? The fact is, it doesn't. Nothing replaces human interaction; however, as I am learning more and more, and integrating myself frequently into the conversations occurring via the world wide web, I am encouraged by the authentic voices behind the written words.

As a graduate student of Global Marketing, Communication and Advertising, I am fascinated with how people and cultures communicate and interact. Though a bit fearful, as traditional book pages are turning into e-ink, I am also hopeful, as the internet provides an abundance of information we can use to better ourselves and truly building relationships with those around the world who have common interests.

The other day, my Global Public Relations professor was commenting on the German's tendency to look for logic, the French desire for the aesthetic and the English want for wit and word play. Technology does not remove these cultural differences.

Daily, I see the authenticity behind the words, and I recognize the common thread of human existence between the social web, body language and social intelligence. In my luck, it is public relations encompasses all three.