A Final reflection

Reflecting on Lessons from my New Media Technologies class (Comm372T)

By Emmitt Downing Jr.

12/1/25

Over the past semester, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the evolving landscape of new media technologies and how they shape both personal identity and professional presence. Looking back, one assignment stands out as my favorite: the Media Curation project. This task allowed me to select, analyze, and present media artifacts that resonated with my interests and career goals. I enjoyed it because it wasn’t just about consuming media—it was about critically engaging with it, asking why certain pieces mattered, and how they contributed to broader conversations in digital culture. The creative freedom to curate content underlined the importance of intentionality in how we present ourselves online.

Since taking this class, I have definitely changed the way I engage with media. Before, I often scrolled passively through platforms, consuming content without much reflection. Now, I find myself pausing to consider the implications of what I’m sharing, liking, or reposting. I think more critically about algorithms, data collection, and the narratives embedded in digital spaces. This shift doesn’t mean I’ve stopped enjoying social media, but I approach it with greater awareness. I recognize that every interaction contributes to my digital footprint, and that awareness has made me more deliberate in how I use technology.

One of the most tangible outcomes of this course has been the improvement of my professional online presence through the ePortfolio. Curating my COMM372T ePortfolio forced me to think strategically about branding, storytelling, and impression management. By organizing my assignments, reflections, and projects in a cohesive way, I created a digital space that not only showcases my academic work but also communicates my values and professional identity. The process helped me refine my voice, highlight my strengths, and present myself as someone who understands the intersection of media and professionalism.

For future students, my biggest piece of advice about designing an EPortfolio is to treat it as more than just a class requirement. Think of it as a living document that can evolve with your career. Use it to experiment with digital storytelling, but also to showcase skills that employers or collaborators might value. Don’t be afraid to personalize it—your EPortfolio should reflect your unique perspective and professional goals. At the same time, keep usability in mind: organize content clearly, write reflections that connect assignments to larger themes, and consider how your portfolio might be perceived by someone outside the classroom.

In conclusion, COMM372T has been more than just a course. It has been a lens through which I’ve reexamined my relationship with media and technology. From favorite assignments to professional growth, the lessons I’ve learned will continue to shape how I navigate digital spaces. The EPortfolio, in particular, stands as a testament to the importance of intentionality in building an online presence, and I hope future students embrace it as a powerful tool for both reflection and professional development.