I am a sophomore advertising major. Choosing my major was super hard, and even though it is only my third semester here at the University of Oklahoma, I have already changed my major a handful of times. I ended up deciding on public relations, and then this fall semester I changed it again to advertising which is where I believe it will stay. I chose advertising because I knew I wanted to study media/journalism as a whole. This decision was rooted in my interest with creativity, business, and influence. Advertising is a vital part of today’s modern media and it has the power to drive economic activity. The field of advertising is capable of creating any narrative you could possibly imagine, and deliver any message that may need to be delivered. This ability to communicate and connect with different audiences is ultimately what made me choose advertising as my major.
The importance of advertising in the media is very evident. It serves as a connecting force between businesses and consumers, and it showcases not just products and services, but can also shape perceptions and opinions. In a world that is constantly overwhelmed with information, effective advertising stands out and can create lasting impressions and foster brand loyalty that can last for decades. Fostering brand loyalty through advertisements is vital for the success of businesses. CNBC states that the top five brands with the highest rates of customer loyalty are Google, Lowe’s, Intel Corporation, Apple, and The Coca-Cola Company, respectively. These brands are all extremely successful and accomplished, further proving the importance of advertising and the role of establishing brand loyalty through advertising.
Some areas where the advertising industry can improve include inclusivity and diversity. Over the last decade, I have especially noticed improvement of these two elements, and corporations have clearly begun to embrace a broader range of perspectives. This allows for advertising to better resonate with all audiences and contribute to more representative media.
In conclusion, I chose advertising over other fields because it is a space where innovation and creativity are not only encouraged, but necessary for success. Through my studies here in Gaylord College, I hope to contribute to the field’s evolution by advocating for increased diversity and inclusivity within the industry. Advertising encompasses a skillset that I am excited to acquire and utilize in my future to become a well-rounded, successful professional.