Blog

Goals for the Semester

09/09/2026Tabitha Woods

This semester I hope to connect my experience in print journalism to the lessons we learn in digital journalism and understand the expanding world of media as a whole. I am looking forward to compiling my experience that I have gathered from my two years writing at SDSU into a portfolio and being able to analyze my experience to the current journalism workforce. Much of the work I have been practicing is about how to collect information, and I’ve spent these preliminary years of my career understanding how to approach a topic or a question about one. Those skills have led me to understand how companies and the formula of production controls and dictates what my position in the journalism field might look like. I hope that this class really helps me understand how to navigate those companies and external forces that will be the avenues in which my journalistic ideas walk upon. I want to work merging my ideas with contemporary technology, emerging trends and engaging my audience well and effectively. By doing this I aim to understand how to create engaging story articles, creative and new layouts and conduct new research. I want to learn from my past story-telling experiences and build upon what I could not do before, and learn about how to make journalism newer and more exciting to engage the community and inform others.

A white keyboard, laptop, and book on a clean desk in a workspace

Emerging Trends in Personal Branding for 2024: What You Need to Know

09/09/2026Tabitha Woods

Personal branding continues to evolve rapidly, especially in 2024 where authenticity and digital presence are more crucial than ever. One notable trend is the rise of micro-influencers and niche experts who leverage targeted content to build loyal audiences. Video content, particularly short-form videos, remains dominant across social platforms, emphasizing the need for dynamic and engaging storytelling. Additionally, sustainability and social responsibility are becoming integral to personal brands, reflecting wider societal values. Adapting Your Brand Strategy To stay ahead, consider incorporating these trends by enhancing your online visibility through consistent, valuable content that resonates with your target audience. Use analytics to understand what works best and personalize your approach accordingly. Remember, genuine connections and transparent communication can differentiate your brand in a crowded marketplace, fostering trust and long-term engagement.

A website wireframe on a macbook screen on an office desk.

A Day in the Life: Behind the Scenes of Building a Personal Portfolio Website

09/09/2026Tabitha Woods

Creating a personal portfolio website is an exciting journey that combines creativity, technical skills, and strategic planning. The process begins with brainstorming the core message and selecting projects or skills that best represent your unique value. Designing the layout involves choosing color schemes, typography, and imagery that align with your personal brand. Throughout this phase, frequent testing on different devices ensures a seamless user experience. Challenges and Triumphs Along the Way Behind the scenes, one often faces challenges such as balancing aesthetics with functionality and managing tight deadlines. However, overcoming these obstacles leads to a rewarding final product that effectively showcases your work to potential clients or employers. Continuous updates and improvements keep the portfolio relevant, reflecting your growth and evolving expertise over time.